Welcome to our highlights for concerts, festivals and live music in Chicago. From free shows at Millennium Park to large festivals like Ravinia and Lollapalooza, and intimate shows at small local venues, our guide has all the latest music entertainment. Bookmark this page and check back for updates on concerts and events.

Sunday in the Park with Lyric’s Rising Stars

The Stars of Lyric Opera at Millennium Park.Copyright Todd Rosenberg Photography

WHAT: Lyric Opera of Chicago launches its 67th season with the free outdoor performance “Sunday in the Park with Lyric’s Rising Stars.” Appearing with the Lyric Opera Orchestra, the concert features the members of The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center — sopranos Mathilda Edge, Maria Novella Malfatti and Denis Velez; mezzo-sopranos Katherine Beck, Katherine DeYoung and Kathleen Felty; tenors Martin Luther Clark and Lunga Eric Hallam; baritone Leroy Davis; basses Rivers Hawkins and Anthony Reed with conductor/pianist Donald Lee III and pianist Chris Reynolds.

WHEN: 6 p.m. Aug. 29

WHERE: Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park, Michigan and Randolph

VISIT: lyricopera.org.

Wilco and Sleater-Kinney

WilcoAnnabel Mehran Photo

WHAT: Wilco is in the process of working on its next album so expect some new tunes here as well as tunes from its 2019 album, “Ode to Joy,” released in fall 2019 just before the pandemic shut down all tours. Sleater-Kinney is touring behind its new album, “The Path of Wellness,” the first effort since parting ways with longtime drummer Janet Weiss, which shows frontwomen Carrie Brownstein and Corin Tucker in fine form both lyrically and musically. Chicago multi-instrumentalist NNAMDI opens the show.

WHEN: 6 p.m. Aug. 28.

WHERE: Millennium Park

TICKETS: $45+

VISIT: jamusa.com

Bronzeville Blues Festival

John PrimerMarilyn Stringer Photo

WHAT: The Bronzeville Blues Festival features four stages featuring classic Chicago blues in the neighborhood where it grew up. This is where many of the most famous blues musicians (Muddy Waters, Otis Rush, Sonny Boy Williamson) lived and played (Checkerboard Lounge, Pepper’s Lounge, 708 Club). Among the festival’s performers are John Primer & the Real Deal Blues Band, Kenny “Beedy Eyes” Smith, Melody Angel, Big James & the Chicago Playboys, Mississippi Gabe Carter, Harmonica Hinds and many more. Plus, there are self-guided walking and biking tours of historic sites and food trucks.

WHEN: From noon-7 p.m. Aug. 29 at 43rd and Calumet

ADMISSION: free

VISIT: chicagobluesrevival.org.

World Music Wednesday

Bomba con Buya Amy Young Photo

WHAT: The Old Town School of Folk Music’s weekly showcase of world music and dance, returns beginning Sept. 1 with Jazz a la Mexicana, a concert featuring traditional and folkloric Mexican music mixed with jazz. A celebration of Segundo Ruiz Belvis Cultural Center’s 50th anniversary follows on Sept. 8 with performances of Puerto Rican bomba music by Bomba con Buya and Mancha E’ Platano. The current roster of concerts runs through Dec. 1.

WHERE: Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln

Admission is free, a $10 suggested donation is appreciated. For updated information regarding the venue’s Covid 19 vaccination and/or mask policies, visit oldtownschool.org.

Grace Pettis

Grace PettisNicola Gell Photo

WHAT: Singer-songwriter Grace Pettis showcases her recent album, “Working Woman,” a set of songs in the tradition of Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton’s strong working women. American Songwriter says, “Pettis writes vibrant pictures of the world around us today with fierce accuracy and soulful grace.” Also on the bill: Minnesota indie-folk songwriter Rachael Kilgour.

WHEN: At 7:30 p.m. Aug. 31

WHERE: Hey Nonny, 10 South Vail, Arlington Heights.

TICKETS: $15-$30. For updated information regarding the venue’s Covid 19 vaccination and/or mask policies, visit heynonny.com

House City Series

DJ TraxmanCourtesy Chicago Park District

What: The Departments of Cultural Affairs and Special Event’s tribute to house music continues with House City, a new series of free events popping up throughout the summer in the neighborhoods that helped create the house music genre over 35 years ago.

When/Where: vent dates and communities are July 23 in South Shore, July 31 on the Southeast Side, Aug. 14 in Humboldt Park, Aug. 28 in Englewood, Aug. 29 in Lakeview, Sept. 12 in South Shore and Sept.19 in Bronzeville. DJs playing include Traxman, Lori Branch, Deeon, Elbert Philips, Duane Powell and more.

Info: For locations and times, visit chicagohousemusicfestival.us

Chris Foreman Courtesy Origin Records

Chris Foreman at the Green Mill

What: The Green Mill has reopened and that means the return of Chris Foreman, a Friday night fixture at the popular jazz club. Foreman, a jazz organist blind since birth, is a master on the Hammond B3 and regarded as Chicago’s best. His playing is a blend of blues-gospel and jazz honed in his professional experience, which has included work with Hank Crawford, Albert Collins, Bernard Purdie, The Deep Blue Organ Trio and The Mighty Blue Kings.

When: 5-7:30 p.m. Fridays

Where: The Green Mill, 4802 N. Broadway

Cost: No cover charge

Visit greenmilljazz.com

Ravinia Festival

What: The Ravinia Festival, the oldest outdoor music festival in the country, returns with reduced capacity. As usual, the lineup is a varied slate of music from classical to pop, jazz and rock. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra returns for a six-week run with conductor Marin Alsop leading seven concerts in her first season as Ravinia’s chief conductor. Also on the roster are: Garrick Ohlsson, Cynthia Erivo, Counting Crows, Kurt Elling, Brian McKnight, John Hiatt and the Jerry Douglas Band, The Roots, John Legend, Madeleine Peyroux, Midori, Joshua Bell, Pinchas Zukerman, the Chicago Sinfonietta and the Joffrey Ballet.

When: July 1-Sept. 26

Where: Highland Park

Tickets: prices vary

Visit: ravinia.org.

Grant Park Music Festival

Independence Day concerts will kick off the Grant Park Music Festival season.Patrick Pyszka

What: The Grant Park Music Festival is fully open for capacity audiences in the seated area and the lawn.

When: Through Aug. 21

Where: Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park, Michigan and Randolph.

Admission: free

Visit: gpmf.org

Summer Nights with Northlight

What: Summer Nights with Northlight is a cabaret series held at Evanston restaurants to benefit Northlight Theatre. The performers are Alexis J. Roston and Kelvin Roston Jr. (June 10, Good to Go Jamaican, 711 W. Howard), Linda Solotaire (July 27, Sketchbook Brewing Company, 4901 Main, Skokie) and Heidi Kettenring (Aug. 24, Peckish Pig, 623 W. Howard).

When: Performances times are 6 p.m.

Tickets: $60 includes light dinner and select drinks. Visit northlight.org.

Tuesdays on the Terrace

“Tuesdays on the Terrace” at the MCA in Chicago.Copyright MCA

When: 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays June 1-Aug. 31

Where: Museum of Contemporary Art’s outdoor sculpture garden, 220 E. Chicago

What: Tuesdays on the Terrace returns to the Museum of Contemporary Art’s outdoor sculpture garden. The popular jazz concert series features an array of Chicago jazz musiciansFirst up on June 1 is Alexis Lombre’s Ancestral Awakenings. Free with advance reservations. Visit mcachicago.org.

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Welcome to our highlights of events and entertainment on stage at Chicago’s theaters. From local productions to Broadway hits, our guide has the latest on shows in the city. Bookmark this page and check back for updates and ticket information.

Dance for Life

Visceral Dance Chicago Michelle Reid Photo

WHAT: Dance for Life, which supports the health and wellness of Chicago’s professional dance community, marks its 30th anniversary with a celebration at Millennium Park. The companies featured at the fundraiser are a who’s who of Chicago dance: DanceWorks Chicago, Giordano Dance Chicago, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, The Joffrey Ballet, Movement Revolution Dance Crew, PARA.MAR Dance Theatre, South Chicago Dance Theatre, Trinity Irish Dance Company and Visceral Dance Chicago. Plus, there’s a film by Winifred Haun & Dancers and Randy Duncan will choreograph a world premiere finale.

WHEN: 6 p.m. Aug. 26

WHERE: Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park (Michigan and Randolph).

TICKETS: Lawn seating is free, bowl seating is a $300 minimum donation. Visit chicagodancersunited.org/events.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater in the Parks

Yin He Dance is part of “Dream: A Community Reimagining of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”Yin He Dance

WHAT: Chicago Shakespeare Theater celebrates the 10th anniversary of Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks with “Dream: A Community Reimagining of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” The new staging was created in collaboration with Cruz Gonzalez-Cadel, Cage Sebastian Pierre, GQ and Joriah Kwame with artists and organizations from Englewood, Austin, Hermosa, Little Village, West Pullman and Chinatown including Me’Lo the Generation Hero, DJ Jeremy Heights, Move Me Soul, Segundo Ruiz Belvis Cultural Center, Yin He Dance and Fulton Street Collective.

WHEN: From Aug. 24-Sept. 4 at various city parks.

TICKETS: Admission is free. For updated information regarding the theater’s COVID-19 vaccination and/or mask policies as well as park locations, visit chicagoshakes.com.

Music Theater Works

Alexis Armstrong (top) and Heather Banks rehearse “Mamma Mia!”Music Theater Works

WHAT: Music Theater Works begins its new season with the popular musical “Mamma Mia!,” Catherine Johnson, Bjorn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson’s musical featuring the music of ABBA. Heather Banks stars as Shopine Sheridan, a young woman about to be married who is intent on discovering who her father is so he can walk her down the aisle. Justin Brill directs.

WHEN: From Aug. 19-29 at Music Theater Works at North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie.

TICKETS: $20.50-$108. For updated information regarding the theater’s COVID-19 vaccination and/or mask policies, visit musictheaterworks.com.

PrideArts

Elissa Newcorn (from left), Kyra Leigh, Carl Herzog and Nate Hall star in PrideArts’ productoin of “The Things I Never Could Tell Steven.” Marisa KM

WHAT: PrideArts presents Jye Bryant’s “The Things I Never Could Tell Steven,” a four-character musical in which the four most important people in one man’s life struggle to communicate meaningfully with him and really know him. The cast features Carl Herzog, Kyra Leigh, Elissa Newcorn and Nate Hall under the direction of Jay Espano.

WHEN: From Aug. 19-Sept. 19

WHERE: The Broadway, Pride Arts Center, 4139 N. Broadway.

TICKETS: $30. For updated information regarding the theater’s COVID-19 vaccination and/or mask policies, visit pridearts.org.

‘Mr. Burns, a post-electric play’

Theater Wit rehearses its 2021 restaged production of “Mr. Burns, a post-electric play.” Elizabeth Lovelady

WHAT: Theater Wit returns with a restaging of its hit 2015 production of Anne Washburn’s “Mr. Burns, a post-electric play,” directed by Jeremy Wechsler. The story begins after a global catastrophe where life as we know it has ended (sound familiar?) and a small band of survivors attempt to keep civilization on a path to survival. And, yes, an episode of “The Simpsons” (“Cape Feare” in which Sideshow Bob attempts to murder Bart on a houseboat) plays a role here. From Aug. 27-Sept. 5 at Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont. Tickets: $36-$54. For updated information regarding the theater’s Covid 19 vaccination and/or mask policies, visit theaterwit.org.

‘Off The Map’

WHAT: The storytelling collective 2nd Story kicks off its new virtual season with “Off the Map.” a program featuring three world premiere stories that explore how to move forward in a world that is no longer familiar. Included is Jared Bellot’s “Finding Mr. Bellot,” about his first year teaching English in a public school plus stories from Katie Hauser and Karla Estela Rivera.

WHEN: Aug. 28-Sept. 4

TICKETS: pay-what-you-can.

INFO: For a look at the entire season, go to 2ndstorycom.

‘Faces’

Goose Island Beer Co and Do312 present “Faces,” showcasing a special drag performance featuring Shea Coulee, the winner of season 5 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars.”Courtesy Goose Island

WHAT: Goose Island Beer Co and Do312 present “Faces,” showcasing a special drag performance featuring Shea Coulee, the winner of season 5 of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars. Goose Island brewers also have teamed with Coulee to create Shea Coul-Ale: Royal Edition, with a portion of proceeds going to Brave Space Alliance, the first Black-led, trans-led LGBTQIA+ center on the city’s South Side.

WHEN: At 9 p.m. Aug. 27

WHERE: at Hydrate Nightclub, 3458 N. Halste. To enter a drawing for a chance to meet Shea Coulee before the show and for updated information regarding the club’s Covid 19 vaccination and/or mask policies visit do312.com/shea-coulale-faces.

‘Kinky Boots’

Michael Wordly makes his Paramount Theatre debut as Lola in “Kinky Boots.”Thomas J. King

What: Live performances return for a new season at the Paramount Theatre with Cyndi Lauper and Harvey Fierstein’s high-kicking “Kinky Boots.” This first regional production of the Broadway musical, directed by Trent Stork, stars Devin DeSantis as Charlie, the shoemaker attempting to save his failing shoe factory, and Michael Wordly as Lola, the fierce drag queen who shows him the way.

When: Aug. 18-Oct. 17

Where: Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena, Aurora

Tickets: $36-$74

For updated information regarding the theater’s COVID-19 vaccination and/or mask policies, visit paramountaurora.com.

Theatre Y

WHAT: Theatre Y’s ambitious new adventure “You Are Here: The Emerald Camino Project” is a return of its urban pilgrimages, this time through Daniel Burnham’s Emerald Necklace — the boulevard system that links the public parks on Chicago’s West and South sides. The immersive 12-part walking experience was created with artists, community leaders and organizations across a dozen communities. “This is a joyful post-pandemic experience that connects Chicago’s diverse communities through the intersection of conversation and art,” says Theatre Y’s artistic director, Melissa Lorraine. If you are walking through the neighborhood in which you live, admission is free; all other participants are Theatre Y Members or encouraged to become members (for as little as $5/month).

WHEN: Aug. 21-Sept. 26 For updated information regarding the theater’s COVID-19 vaccination and/or mask policies as well as dates and times for each walk, visit theatre-y.com.

Blue Man Group

Blue Man Group Caroline Talbot Photography

What: Those crazy characters in blue return for more goofy fun when Blue Man Group reopens on Aug. 18. The show, which encourages audiences to reconnect with their inner child, is a combination of art, music, comedy and technology.

When: Aug. 18 – ongoing

Where: Briar Street Theatre, 3133 N. Halsted.

Tickets: $49-$89

For updated information regarding the theater’s Covid 19 vaccination and/or mask policies, visit blueman.com.

‘Higher and Higher: A Rock ‘n’ Soul Party

Chester Gregory Amy Boyle Photography

What: The Marriott Theatre concert series presents “Higher and Higher: A Rock ‘n’ Soul Party” featuring musical theater artist Chester Gregory performing the hits of greats like Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, James Brown and more. The star of “Motown: The Musical,” “Hairspray” and “Dreamgirls,” Gregory first won acclaim locally for his outstanding portrayal of Jackie Wilson in The Jackie Wilson Story at Black Ensemble Theater.

When: Performances are at 7 p.m. Aug. 14 and 3 p.m. Aug. 15

Where: Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Dr., Lincolnshire

Tickets: $55. For updated information regarding the theater’s Covid 19 vaccination and/or mask policies

Visit: marriotttheatre.com.

‘Why Dogs Don’t Talk’

“Why Dogs Don’t Talk” will stream beginning July 27 at First Folio Theatre. D. Rice Photo

When: July 27-Aug. 8

Where: Online

What: First Folio Theatre presents an online production of David Rice’s adaptation of a short story by Dean Monti. Filmed in an Evanston apartment, the comedy ponders the question: Is man a dog’s best friend? The cast includes Landree Fleming as Hubert the dog and August Forman as the bewildered dog owner Mel. Tickets: a sliding scale of pay-what-you-can.

More information: firstfolio.org

‘And Away We Stared’

When: 8 p.m. July 22-24

Where: Online

What: For its latest performance, Trap Door Theatre, the company dedicated to staging challenging yet obscure works, has devised a piece using text from the works of Chuck Mee, Gertrude Stein and Matei Visniec. In the absence of humans, the stage has gained the ability to put on mechanized performances to please only itself. In a series of theatrical dares, the actors of Trap Door attempt to retake the stage, confronting notions of live performance, automation and the cycles we perpetuate. Devised and directed by Skye Fort and Mike Steele. Tickets: $10, $15.

More information: trapdoortheatre.com

The Annoyance Theatre

Susan Messing Provided

What: Live comedy shows have returned to The Annoyance. On the lineup is Annoyance artistic director Mick Napier’s new solo sketch revue, “System of a Clown” (8 p.m. Friday-Saturday through September, $10, $20), plus returning favorites including “Green Show Live,” “Trigger Happy,” “Hitch*Cocktails,” “Cigarette Sandwich” and more.

More information: theannoyance.com

‘The Tempest’

Bernell Lassai (left) as Ariel and Kevin Theis as Prospero in “The Tempest.”Maia Rosenfeld

When: July 15-Aug. 21

Where: Austin Gardens, 167 Forest, Oak Park

What: Oak Park Festival Theatre returns to outdoor performances at Austin Gardens with what is thought to be one of Shakespeare’s final masterpieces, a story of shipwreck, romance and magic. Artistic director Barbara Zahora directs, and the cast includes Kevin Theis as Prospero, Bernell Lassai as Ariel, Matt Gall as Caliban and Deanalis Resto as Miranda.

Tickets: $35. Visit oakparkfestival.com.

‘Cooking With Bubbie’

Jan Slavin (left) and Carla GordonMadKap Productions

When: To Aug. 22

Where: Skokie Theatre, 7924 Lincoln, Skokie

What: MadKap Productions and Orchard Street Productions present Jay Kholos’ new musical set at a fictional TV cooking show where everyone’s favorite Jewish grandmother entertains with an old-fashioned variety revue with dancers, music and comedy. Chicago comedian Jan Slavin and Gold Coast Cabaret Award-winner Carla Gordon alternate in the role of the Bubbie.

Tickets: $45. Visit skokietheatre.org.

Teatro ZinZanni

The artistry and the excitement of Teatro ZinZanni returns to Chicago starting July 8. Pictured: Lea Hinz.Michael Doucet

What: The immersive, whirlwind theater experience that is Teatro ZinZanni has reopened featuring a new show with a cast of comedians, aerialists, acrobats, singers, dancers and a gourmet meal, it brings comedy, music and cirque back after a long pandemic hiatus. Included among the performers are powerhouse vocalists Storm Marrero and Cunio, aerial acts Lea Hinz and Duo 19, veteran comedians Frank Ferrante and Joe DePaul and acrobatic dancers Mickael and Vita.

When: Ongoing

Where: Spiegeltent ZaZou on the 14th floor of the Cambria Hotel, 32 W. Randolph

Tickets: $119-$189; limited show only tickets $69. Visit zinzanni.com/chicago.

The Artistic Home Theatre

What: The Artistic Home presents “Summer on the Patio,” a seasonlong event which invites theatergoers to share in the creative workshop process via free staged readings and open rehearsals of three contemporary plays: Maria Irene Fornes’ “Mud” (To Aug. 27), Martyna Majok’s “Ironbound” (To Aug. 28) and Craig Wright’s “The Pavilion” (To Aug. 22).

Where: It all takes place at the company’s new space at 3054 N. Milwaukee with rehearsals in July and staged readings in August.

Admission: free

Visit theartistichome.org

Steppenwolf Theatre

Donnetta Lavinia Grays in “Where We Stand”Joan Marcus/WP Theater

What: The final entry in the Steppenwolf NOW virtual season is “Where We Stand,” a storytelling tour-de-force about community and accountability written and performed by Donnetta Lavinia Grays. Through poetic verse and music, the drama challenges our ability to forgive and our ideas of mercy and who might deserve it. The filmed play captures a performance originally presented at Baltimore Center Stage co-produced with WP Theater.

When/tickets: A $75 ticket includes all six of the productions in the NOW series available online through Aug. 31

Visit: steppenwolf.org/now

Summer Nights with Northlight

What: Summer Nights with Northlight is a cabaret series held at Evanston restaurants to benefit Northlight Theatre. The performers are Alexis J. Roston and Kelvin Roston Jr. (June 10, Good to Go Jamaican, 711 W. Howard), Linda Solotaire (July 27, Sketchbook Brewing Company, 4901 Main, Skokie) and Heidi Kettenring (Aug. 24, Peckish Pig, 623 W. Howard).

When: Performances times are 6 p.m.

Tickets: $60 includes light dinner and select drinks. Visit northlight.org.

Labyrinth Arts and Performance Collective

What: Labyrinth Arts and Performance Collective presents “Emerge,” a cabaret series featuring music, drag performance, comedy and spoken word.

When: every second Friday of the month

Where: Porkchop, 1132 W. Grand

Tickets: $20. Visit labyrinthartsperformance.com.

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The Ukrainian Village in Chicago is a 10×10 block neighborhood next to West Town where you can find it all.  The bars are great, and the people watching is even better, a perfect combination. Grab a beverage at any of these bars or better yet, combine them into a bar crawl. Considering this neighborhood is plenty walkable you can easily hit several on this list in one night!

Their slogan is “hugs, drinks, high five,” could you imagine a more welcoming environment? Open until 2:00 a.m. everyday you can get a little sloppy any day of the week you choose (we won’t judge).  They have a jukebox as well so come ready with some songs in mind.  It has this half dive, half not dive vibe going on that works well for this intimate bar. 

This pub has a history of over 30 years, and is famous among the art community.  This eclectic space complete with interesting knick-knacks and posters, looks small from the outside but has plenty of space on the inside.  Free pool and a classic cork dart board can be played while you sip one of their many brews.  

A pub mixed with Anglo-Indian fare? How can you not visit this gem!?  They have a menu ranging from, what’s described to be, the best burger in Chicago (ok might be a stretch but still good) all the way to chicken tikka fries.  They have a wide variety of beer and cider that you can pair with your butter chicken.  Plus, if you go on a Monday night, you get the famous burger for just $12 – and it comes with a drink!

First off, they have bocce ball leagues.  Bocce ball hardly requires exercise so you can play while you get a little tipsy.  Plus, if you want to watch sports in the Ukrainian Village, this is where to go – especially for soccer (they have the entire schedule on their website). They have great weeknight food specials, brick oven pizza, and an “everyone is welcome here” environment.  As their website states – Breakup? Cleos. Drinks with co-workers? Cleos. Just because you want to drink? Cleo’s.

This bar is your indie music go-to.  Although the space is small, it is filled with charm from the staff, and eclectic ambiance.  The drinks are cheap but the quality is anything but.  They have a fleet of dedicated regulars ready to give you advice on the neighborhood.  They are cash only, but there is an ATM inside in case you forget.  Check their website for upcoming live performances!

Happy hour here is a must, especially if you like oysters!  Their happy hour runs Sundays 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Mondays 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. where oysters are $1 and you can pair them with $6 martinis.  While you can’t make reservations for happy hour, there’s usually a spot!  It’s a cute place to hangout and relax, but just know their food menu is a little limited so check it out before you go! 

Open 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. everyday, Rainbo Club is dark, oddly themed, and local centric, just like a good dive bar should be.  Although, the locals are generally social and will welcome you to their spot!  Of course the drinks are cheap, and Rainbo Club even has a pinball machine to keep you entertained.  Like many dive bars and others on this list, bring cash!

This bar is named after the 1960s bohemian freethinkers, and is incredibly interesting to look at inside.  From the artwork to the lighting, and even the tables themselves, you will feel as though you’ve been transported.  The vibe is best described as a tropical Mediterranean paradise that has an elegant twist.  Whatever you do, get dessert!  They have outstanding creations such as the Honey Whipped Cream, and the Pistachio and Rose White Chocolate Crunch!

Featured Image Credit: UrbanMatter

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LOS ANGELES — ESPN is canceling Rachel Nichols’ show, “The Jump,” and pulling her off NBA programming.

David Roberts, who was named last week to oversee the network’s NBA coverage, said in a statement that “we mutually agreed that this approach regarding our NBA coverage was best for all concerned.”

“Rachel is an excellent reporter, host and journalist, and we thank her for her many contributions to our NBA content,” Roberts said.

Nichols also confirmed the move on social media. Sports Business Journal was the first to report it.

Nichols posted: “Got to create a whole show and spend five years hanging out with some of my favorite people talking about one my favorite things. An eternal thank you to our amazing producers & crew – ‘The Jump’ was never built to last forever but it sure was fun. More to come …”

ESPN will have a new daily NBA show that will premiere sometime before the regular season begins in October. Roberts also will be responsible for revamping and finding a host for the network’s “NBA Countdown” show with Maria Taylor’s departure to NBC.

Nichols, who has more than a year remaining on her contract, has been an integral part of ESPN’s NBA coverage since she returned to the network in 2016. “The Jump” started in February that year and went from airing only during the season to a nearly year-round fixture. She also was the sideline reporter for most of ESPN’s top national games this season.

Nichols came under fire, though, after a report by The New York Times on July 4 detailed critical comments she made about Taylor.

Nichols, who is white, made the comments last year when she learned Taylor, who is Black, would lead the network’s studio show instead of her during the league’s restart at Walt Disney World.

In a phone conversation that was accidentally recorded and obtained by the newspaper, Nichols said: “I wish Maria Taylor all the success in the world — she covers football, she covers basketball. If you need to give her more things to do because you are feeling pressure about your crappy longtime record on diversity — which, by the way, I know personally from the female side of it — like, go for it. Just find it somewhere else. You are not going to find it from me or taking my thing away.”

The Times reported that the show’s crew was angry with Nichols, who apologized while hosting “The Jump” on July 5. The report also came less than three weeks before Taylor’s contract was set to expire with ESPN and after she rejected an extension.

ESPN replaced Nichols with Malika Andrews as its sideline reporter for the NBA Finals following the report. The 26-year-old Andrews, who hosted “The Jump” last week while Nichols was on vacation, is expected to have a prominent role in the network’s coverage.

Nichols continued to host “The Jump” onsite during the finals. She was also onsite during the recently concluded NBA Summer League in Las Vegas.

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The Chicago Park District’s deputy inspector general said he’s been fired in what he calls a “concerted effort” to prevent him from “continuing to investigate criminal activity and employee misconduct that seemingly pervade” the park district’s Beaches & Pools Unit.

Nathan Kipp was summarily fired one week after being placed on “indefinite emergency unpaid suspension” in what he called an illegal attempt to “whitewash” an investigation into sexual assault, sexual harassment and sexual abuse among the district’s lifeguards.

The firing came without warning — and without the hearing required by park district human resources policies. He also was not interviewed by his boss, Park District Inspector General Elaine Little, ignoring what he calls best practice for any inspector general investigation, especially one that culminates in employee termination.

Little’s termination letter to Kipp was dated Aug. 19, which Kipp says is “not a coincidence.” That’s the same date that he went public, taking the unusual step of blasting out his concerns about the motive behind his “emergency suspension” and the chilling effect it would have on the ongoing investigation into “dozens of complaints of sexual assault, sexual harassment and physical abuse” of lifeguards.

“That I was terminated on the same day I went public with the Park District’s and its Board of Commissioners’ improper involvement in the OIG’s investigation further underscores that my ’emergency’ suspension had no legitimate basis in the first instance,” he was quoted as saying in a statement released by his attorney. “Rather, my suspension and termination reflect a concerted effort by the Park District to prevent me from continuing to investigate the criminal activity and other employee misconduct that seemingly pervade the Beaches & Pools Unit, including officials’ apparent efforts to cover up or minimize the hostile workplace culture.”

Until he was escorted out of Park District headquarters last week, Kipp had led the internal investigation of lifeguards at Chicago’s pools and lakefront beaches that has implicated Park District Supt. Mike Kelly in an alleged cover-up.

One of two investigators assigned to the probe, Kipp had spent a year as acting inspector general. He was a candidate for the job that went to Little, ex-wife of state Rep. Curtis Tarver (D-Chicago).

On Thursday, Kipp renewed his call for Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx to “intervene and assume all control” over the inspector general’s investigation.

He claims the victims are owed that much. But the park district, district board and Little “have no clear interest in uncovering and publicly disclosing the full extent” of the “numerous systemic deficiencies” or the “severity of any alleged sexual and physical abuse among lifeguards,” Kipp claims.

“The dozens of professed survivors of sex crimes who have bravely come forward to the OIG deserve a fair, thorough, and unbiased investigation,” Kipp said in his statement. “All future Park District Lifeguards deserve to work in an environment without any fear of being sexually assaulted, physically abused, or harassed by their coworkers. And the general public and residents of Chicago deserve to feel that they can trust public officials.”

Kipp is a former deputy inspector general at the Chicago Public Schools. During his tenure at CPS, he was part of the conflict of interest investigation that culminated in the ouster of then-CEO Forrest Claypool.

Claypool, who also had been chief of staff and CTA president under Mayor Rahm Emanuel, was forced out for allegedly violating the schools’ ethics policies and lying to the inspector general in an effort to cover up his misdeeds.

Since joining the office of the park district’s internal watchdog, Kipp said he received “only positive performance feedback” — until, that is, he was abruptly suspended. Since then, Little and other park district personnel “repeatedly dodged attempts to discuss” Kipp’s employment status.

“As such, any statement ‘confirm[ing]’ the termination of my employment is disingenuous and misleading; there simply have been no discussions ‘to confirm,’ he said. “When viewed in this light, I am left to conclude that my firing is the logical end to the Park District’s retaliatory actions.”

On Thursday, Kipp named Foxx as “among the dwindling number of officials who can ensure that any criminal activity in the Park District’s Lifeguard corps will not be minimized or swept under the rug, and that the public will instead learn how Park District officials have failed the District’s employees, patrons, and the public at large.”

The state’s attorney’s office declined to comment.

Last week, after Kipp’s suspension, the state’s attorney’s office released a statement confirming Foxx had “received information from the city’s departing Inspector General Joe Ferguson about the alleged lifeguard abuse.

“As this matter is the subject of an ongoing investigation, we are unable to further comment at this time,” Foxx’ statement said.

Little and Park District spokeswoman Michele Lemons had no immediate comment.

Following Kipp’s emergency suspension, Little issued her own statement maintaining she “independently makes all internal personnel decisions regarding disciplinary action, including emergency suspensions and terminations.”

The inspector general said she never engaged in or supported a cover-up; colluded or corroborated with the Park District in the handling of any investigation; or provided real-time information regarding confidential aspects of the investigation to the internal monitor.

She also insisted she “will never release a report” that is “rushed,” “whitewashed” or “woefully deficient.” Suggesting she would, she said, is “offensive.”

Turning the tables on Kipp, Little said she “finds it an egregious dereliction of duty” for someone associated with the inspector general’s office to “continue to share confidential and sensitive information regarding this investigation with the media and elsewhere.”

The Chicago Sun-Times reported earlier this month that in February 2020, an Oak Street Beach lifeguard sent 11 pages of explosive allegations to Kelly, detailing a frat-house environment at the beach during the summer of 2019. That lifeguard said she’d been pushed into a wall, called sexually degrading and profane names by fellow lifeguards, and abandoned for hours at her post for refusing to take part in their drinking parties and on-the-job drug use.

Appointed by Emanuel to his $230,000-a-year post and retained by Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Kelly has been under fire for giving his top managers first crack at investigating a female lifeguard’s complaints about physical abuse, sexual harassment, and drug and alcohol use by lifeguards at Oak Street Beach, instead of referring those allegations immediately to the inspector general.

That’s what he promised the young woman he would do in an email applauding the lifeguard for her “courage” in coming forward.

Though required by park district rules, Kelly — who worked for several years in the 2000s as a park district attorney — did not contact the inspector general until a second lifeguard’s more graphic complaint of more serious allegations was forwarded to him by Lightfoot’s office.

He has acknowledged second thoughts about how he handled the first woman’s complaint.

Two top managers since have been suspended without pay, part of at least 42 employees disciplined since an investigation began in March 2020.

Earlier this week, Lightfoot said she would await a final report from the Chicago Park District’s inspector general before deciding whether to fire Parks Supt. Mike Kelly for his handling of the burgeoning scandal into rampant sexual assault, sexual harassment and physical abuse among district lifeguards.

“We have to allow the IG to finish her work and not litigate this in the press where you have pieces of information. He’s got pieces of information,” the mayor said. “The IG is the one that’s gonna be able to see the whole picture. We have to respect her process.”

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The Bears waived Javon Wims on Thursday, ending their affiliation with the receiver who infamously dropped a touchdown pass in their playoff loss to the Saints in January.

Wims suffered an oblique injury Saturday that the Bears initially suspected was appendicitis. He was on the outside looking in during the competition for the team’s sixth receiver spot; Rodney Adams is second in the NFL in preseason receiving yards.

Wims dropped what would have been a 40-yard touchdown pass in the end zone on a double reverse pass in the playoff game. Then-quarterback Mitch Trubisky was lined up at receiver and threw the perfect pass, which would have tied the game at 7.

The receiver had been ejected from the Bears’ previous matchup against the Saints earlier in the season for punching cornerback C.J. Gardner-Johnson. Receiver Anthony Miller punched the same man in the playoffs, and was also ejected.

The Bears took Wims, a Georgia alum, in the seventh round of the 2018 draft. In three seasons, he had 28 catches for 266 receiving yards. He caught one touchdown in each of the last two seasons.

The Bears must submit their final 53-man roster to the NFL by Tuesday at 3 p.m. Their last preseason game, which will feature few starters in action, is Saturday at the Titans.

With the open roster spot, the Bears re-signed cornerback Dionte Ruffin, whom they cut last week. Ruffin recovered a fumble in the first exhibition game.

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LOS ANGELES — Ricardo Pepi grew up straddling the ever-dwindling divide between Mexican and American soccer. The Texas native who mostly watched Mexican teams as a kid is now a first-time MLS All-Star for FC Dallas, and both national teams have been chasing the 18-year-old prodigy’s commitment.

Pepi essentially confirmed Wednesday night he has decided to play with his fellow Americans — and he did it right after striking the decisive blow for his domestic league in the latest chapter of its growing, friendly rivalry with Liga MX.

New England goalkeeper Matt Turner made two penalty kick saves, and Pepi converted the final chance to lift the MLS team past a collection of stars from Mexico’s top league in the MLS All-Star Game.

The MLS team won the shootout 3-2 after finishing regulation tied 1-1.

Pepi is expected to announce Thursday he has chosen to represent the U.S. internationally when he is selected for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. His penalty kick off the underside of the crossbar was a symbolic way to end an entertaining, friendly evening for the All-Star teams representing the continent’s two biggest leagues.

“To get called up to the national team and then get the win for MLS, it feels great,” Pepi said. “You guys can see the MLS is getting better and more competitive.”

The first matchup of these leagues’ top players in MLS’ midseason showcase was the latest step in the increasingly close ties between the U.S./Canadian league and Mexico’s top division. The teams put on a memorable evening at Los Angeles FC’s sold-out Banc of California Stadium in the heart of a cosmopolitan American city with a vibrant Mexican flavor.

Liga MX MVP Jonathan Rodriguez scored in the 20th minute of regular time, and Jesus Murillo evened it on a header off a cross from LAFC teammate Eduard Atuesta early in the second half.

The penalty shootout was a thriller: Turner won the game’s MVP award by stopping shots by Rogelio Funes Mori and Salvador Reyes, and Pepi finished it with style.

“I think (this All-Star format) would be great for both leagues,” Turner said. “You saw the competition was really spirited and high intensity. The fans were into it. It should be the norm, but it’s not my call. I had a ton of fun this week. People really wanted to win, and we don’t always get that in All-Star games here.”

MLS and Liga MX already hold two team cup competitions with hopes for even more interleague play, and both leagues agree a full merger is a real possibility in the coming years.

“Winning a match against the best players in Mexico feels so good,” said MLS captain Raul Ruidiaz, a Peruvian veteran of both leagues. “It proves our league is growing. We enjoyed this a lot.”

These All-Star teams’ demographics reflect both leagues’ growth and international appeal. The MLS All-Stars were born in 13 different countries, while only 12 of Liga MX’s 27 All-Stars were born in Mexico.

“It’s amazing to be here with all these great players,” said Guillermo Ochoa, the veteran Club America goalkeeper who played part of the first half. “It’s great for the fans because they can see these players live. I would love to be here again next year.”

MLS was once well behind Liga MX in quality of play, but players from both leagues agree the gap has closed significantly in the past few years. These All-Star teams appeared to be quite well-matched as they played to a draw in regulation.

“The thing I learned out there is we are up there with Liga MX,” Philadelphia Union goalkeeper Andre Blake said.

Early in the first half, the game was paused after fans participated in the infamous homophobic chant that remains irresistible to some Mexican fans despite FIFA sanctions against their national team because of it. Fans largely stopped doing the chant on goal kicks after the warning, but many did it again during extra time in the second half.

Liga MX went ahead when America defender Jorge Sanchez delivered a long cross to Rodriguez, who controlled it and scored for the latest achievement in the Uruguayan veteran’s remarkable calendar year. Rodriguez won Balon de Oro as Mexican football’s most valuable player last year while leading Cruz Azul to its first Liga MX title since 1997.

Rodriguez even won the MLS All-Star Skills Challenge for Liga MX on Tuesday night, hitting the crossbar from about 45 yards to end the event.

The Los Angeles festivities were dampened earlier this week when MLS’ two biggest Mexican stars — the Galaxy’s Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez and LAFC’s Carlos Vela — both dropped out with injuries. Inter Miami’s Rodolfo Pizarro was the only Mexican-born player on the MLS roster, which had a handful of Liga MX veterans.

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If you find yourself in the Northalsted neighborhood (formerly known as Boystown) on a Saturday night and don’t know what the best bar to go to is, then you’re in for a real treat. Boystown is known for its gay bars and flamboyant clientele. But even if high energy and 5 AM partying isn’t your scene, it has plenty of bars that you can enjoy and have fun at. I’ve compiled a list of 8 best bars in Northaslted that you need to at least go to once. It’s a healthy mix of gay bars and clubs and dive bars, so there’s something for everyone!

3325 N Broadway St, Chicago, IL 60657

Opened in 1978, this tiny, unpretentious lesbian & gay bar features dancing, games & karaoke. It is a good change from the hustle and muscle of Halsted Street’s rowdy boy bars, and that’s just the way this clientele likes it. Plenty of ladies hang here until the midnight hour, but the boys crash the party shortly thereafter, creating one of the few truly mixed queer scenes in the city. 

3452 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657

At this shoebox of a cocktail bar, the drinks are skillfully prepared, the crowd is kept to a minimum by the doorman, and the music never gets so loud that it drowns out your insights. The clientele is mixed in age but not in gender—and everyone is on their best behavior, which makes it an altogether sophisticated and adult experience. 

L&L Tavern

3207 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657

L & L Tavern is exactly what you would expect out of a dive bar—cheap beer, precarious stools and wobbly tables. Even though they only have drinks, no food, you’ll want to hang out for hours at this friendly neighborhood spot.

3359 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60605

This laid-back bar on the Boystown scene, which took over the former Circuit space in 2013, boasts a cloud-like overhead sculpture installation made up of 19,000 twinkling light bulbs. It also boasts a better selection of craft beers on tap than most bars on the Halsted strip, with elixirs like Magic Hat #9 and local brew Half Acre Daisy Cutter.

3439 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657

Hydrate, Halsted’s and Elixir owner Marc Liberson expands his Boystown mini-empire, turning the former Buck’s Saloon into a barcade with classic video games from Dig Dug to Donkey Kong. As for drinks, Replay focuses on local and craft beers (26 on tap) and bourbon—a welcome addition to a strip where sugary-sweet mixed drinks and mass-market brews are the norm. The spruced-up patio remains a warm-weather attraction.

3320 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657

A relatively recent entry among the Sidetracks and Roscoe’s-es of the Halsted strip, this popular gay spot contrasts fairly elegant, classic decor with theme nights like Frat Night Thursday.

3258 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657

This huge beer garden turns into a laid-back college reunion on weekend nights in the summer, with people crammed in at the outdoor bar. In colder months, the attention turns to the more sophisticated picks on the beer list and the slabs of ribs that go a long way toward warming the belly.

3349 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657

This huge Boystown hot spot gets packed, but there are six big rooms, an open-air courtyard and a lush rooftop deck, so you can move around until you find a spot to sip your slushy drink. A longstanding anchor of the Halsted strip, Sidetrack also plays host to a steady stream of community-minded fundraisers and events.

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