The Driehaus Museum and the African American Museum of Performing Arts (AAMPA) announce the casting for A Nativity Tribute, an adaptation of Langston Hughes' gospel song-play, Black Nativity. Co-directed by AAMPA Executive Director TaRon Patton and Kelvin Rolston, Jr., with choreography by Dereque Whiturs and music by composer Jaret Landon, the joyful production recreates the biblical narrative of Christ using song and dance to embody the struggles of Mary and Joseph. Featuring students from local dance companies and some of Chicago's most prolific gospel voices, A Nativity Tribute uplifts the contributions of Black artists to Chicago arts and culture and celebrates the legacy of Black excellence in Chicago. There will be two performances only of A Nativity Tribute inside the historic Murphy Auditorium at the Driehaus Museum, 50 East Erie Street:  Wednesday and Thursday, December 4-5, at 7pm.  Tickets, priced at $50, are on sale now at driehausmuseum.org.

The cast for A Nativity Tribute features Kelvin Roston, Jr. as Gabriel, Jon Pierce as Michael, Levi Stewart as Haniel, Kalind Haynes as Raphael, Rashawn Thompson as Jermiel, Candace Edwards as Ariel, Quiana McNary as Uriel, Shantina Lowe as Sariphena, and Robin DaSilva as Raquel.

Executive Director of the Driehaus Museum Lisa Key says, "We are thrilled to continue our partnership with the African American Museum of Performing Arts for two special performances of gospel music celebrating the holiday season, when the Museum truly sparkles. AAMPA's meaningful production A Nativity Tribute will touch audiences across Chicago and is exactly the type of programming we hoped for with our expanded museum campus and the magical space of the Murphy Auditorium. We are honored to be long-term partners with AAMPA while they are building their new home."

Patton adds: "I am so excited to present this Chicago holiday favorite again at The Driehaus Museum.  Now it's more important than ever that arts institution begin to create these types of partnerships to ensure our survival in this season of uncertainty for arts and culture."

A Nativity Tribute builds on the history of Black Nativity in Chicago, a holiday favorite that has been performed since 2003 by Congo Square Theater at venues including the Goodman Theatre, the DuSable Museum of African American History, and University of Chicago's Logan Center for the Arts. The production has reached nearly 52, 000 patrons and employed over 623 artists, designers, and dancers of color in its 20+ year history.

ABOUT THE DIRECTORS

TaRon Patton is the Executive Director of the African American Museum of the Performing Arts (AAMPA), an Illinois nonprofit. She served as the executive director of Congo Square Theatre (CST) for four years and has performed at many professional venues including Goodman Theatre and Steppenwolf Theatre. Patton is also the CEO of the production company GLP PRODUCTIONS, INC. As a producer, Patton's credits include Some Sort of Saint (Definition Theater), The Billboard (Northwestern Abbott Theater), N (Greenhouse Theatre), Misty Tanner (Q& A Productions). Patton's directing credits include Some Sort of Saint (Definition Theater), The Billboard (Northwestern Abbott Theater), N (Greenhouse Theatre), Saturday Night, Sunday Morning (Steppenwolf Garage Rep), Bullrusher (Congo Square Theatre), Nativity Tribute (Congo Square Theatre). Acting credits include Your Honor Mayor Byrne (Lookingglass Theater), Meet Vera Stark (Goodman Theatre), Hot L Baltimore (Steppenwolf); The Bluest Eye (Steppenwolf and New Victory), King Hedley II (Congo Square Theatre Company), and Joe Turner's Come and Gone (Goodman Theatre). Patton's television credits include The Chi, Empire, Chicago PD, Chicago Fire, Chicago Med, and A Different World.

Kelvin Rolston, Jr. (Gabriel) is an actor/singer/musician/writer. He is the playwright and performer of Twisted Melodies, a one person show that looks at mental illness through the eyes of late great soul singer and musician, Donny Hathaway. It returns to Chicago in July of 2025 at Northlight Theatre in Skokie IL, directed by Ron OJ Parson and Alexis J Roston. Rolston recently closed East Texas Hot Links at Court Theater Chicago. Some favorite credits include: The Gospel at Colonus (Oedipus), Oedipus Rex (Oedipus), King Hedley II (King Hedley), Five Guys Named Moe (Four-Eyed Moe), Fences (Trinity Repertory Company); Clue (Mercury Theater); The Color Purple (MSMT); The Wiz (Fulton Theatre). Chicagoland: Congo Square, Paramount, Marriott, Goodman, ITC, eta, Writers, Black Ensemble, TimeLine, Northlight, and Steppenwolf. Rolston's television credits include: Chicago Med, Chicago P.D., South Side. Film: Get a Job, Princess Cyd, Breathing Room. Rolston has received awards from the Jeff Awards, four BTA Awards, three Black Excellence Awards, NAMI Award.

ABOUT THE CAST

Robin DaSilva (Raquel) is a multi-award winning actor and singer whose regional credits include Mercury Theater Chicago (Women Of Soul), Porchlight Music Theater (Ain't Misbehavin), Theater at the Center (A Christmas Memory), Theo Ubique (Smokey Joe's Café), NIETF Foundation (Ragtime), Penumbra Theater (Joe Turner's Come and Gone), Mixed Blood Theater (A... My Name Is Alice), Black Ensemble Theatre (Feel Good Music Review, Holiday Extravaganza, The Other Cinderella, Women of Soul, and Mahalia Jackson: Moving Through the Light). For her role in Mahalia, she won the 2019 Joseph Jefferson and the BTAA Awards for Performer in A Revue. As a vocal arranger, she has arranged for many churches, recording artists, commercials, TV shows and musical theater productions. TV credits include T-Mobile's Home for the Holidays Surprise and HBO's Southside. 

Candace Edwards (Ariel) is thrilled to return to A Nativity Tribute after a six-year hiatus. An accomplished performer with over 15 years in stage, film, and television, she brings a deep connection to the music and message of this powerful production. Outside of her work on stage, Edwards is a dedicated flight attendant for United Airlines, a Community Educator with the Alzheimer's Association, and an active member of her church.

Kalinda Haynes (Raphael) KALIND is a name synonymous with soul-stirring melodies and an unwavering commitment to music.  He has toured in Italy, Mexico, the West Indies, and France, on the legendary Apollo stage.  He was selected as one of 20 contestants on BET's acclaimed show, Sunday Best, Season 2. As a top 10 finalist, his memorable performances and unwavering faith left a lasting impression, earning him a place as one of the show's All Stars, returning to the show in Season 8. Haynes believes that his purpose in life is to minister God's Word through song.  

Shantina Lynet Lowe (Sariphena) is a versatile 29-year-old singer, songwriter, performer, arranger, actress, musical director, vocal coach, and public speaking coach. She is a full-time music teacher and choir director and holds BA in Theater Performance and Film. Lowe has participated in over 10 live theatre productions and 50+ shows in Chicago as a solo artist. She performs with her family group, The Lowe Family, and her sister group, The Lowe Sisters, known for their viral video "What Drawers Should I Wear Today?" which has millions of views online. In 2016, she released her first EP, #Stuvibes, followed by two more albums and several singles. She has also collaborated with artists like Kanye West, Carrie Underwood, and performed at the 2023 Grammy Awards with Lizzo. Lowe aims to inspire creatives to share their art confidently and leave a unique mark on the world.

Qiana C. McNary (Uriel) is an actor in Chicago with credits including The Other Cinderella (The Queen), A Taste of Soul (Chef Qiana; Jeff Nominated), The Real Housewives of Motown (Cliniece Stubbs), Crowns (Mabel), Hairspray (Motormouth), The Little Mermaid (Ursula), Caroline or Change (Caroline) and Sister Act (Deloris). OPERA: Fannie Lou Hamer (Fannie), Harriet Tubman (Rittia), Madam Butterfly (Cio-Cio-San), Saul and the Witch of Endor (The Witch). On regional stages, McNary has performed inGhost the Musical (Louise/Oda Mae U/S) and Ain't Misbehavin' (Armelia). She also sings with her band, The McNary Experience.

Jon Pierce (Michael) is a recording artist, author, and activist. Pierce is deeply embedded in Chicago's diverse soul and theatre scenes, and has toured and performed throughout Germany, Japan, and the UK. His latest project is his EP Sonic Journey, a vibrant and up-tempo dance collection produced by Chicago-based Shawn Hibbler. He is also the author of the affirmation series Say It Until You Mean It, a collection of thoughts and affirmations.

Levi Stewart (Haniel) is a Chicago actor, singer, and songwriter. Has had the privilege of performing in shows like the Black Renaissance, Sanctify, A Piece of My Soul, The Last Dancer Standing, and numerous appearances in the Black Nativity with Congo Square Theater. 

Rashawn Thompson (Jermiel) Born and raised in Chicago, Thompson is a member of The Black Ensemble Theater, where he has become a standout in Chicago's theater scene. Thompson has performed in The Teddy Pendergrass Story, which earned him a Black Theater Alliance Award (BTAA) for his portrayal of the legendary R&B singer. He starred as Marvin Gaye in The Marvin Gaye Story, a role that earned him a Jeff Award nomination. Thompson was featured in a Super Bowl commercial with Jennifer Hudson. He has also performed at the National Black Theatre Festival and had the honor of singing for icons like Teddy Pendergrass, Dionne Warwick, Angela Bassett, and Illinois Governor Pat Quinn.

ABOUT THE PRODUCTION TEAM

Jaret Landon (Music Director) is a composer/arranger and music educator. He has composed and arranged music for film, musicals, and recorded albums. Theater credits include: Nativity and Sanctified  (Congo Square Theatre); Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill and Ain't Misbehavin (Porchlight Music Theatre); The Gospel of Lovingkindness (Victory Gardens Theatre); Crowns (Goodman Theatre); Gem of The Ocean (Court Theater); Jabari Dreams of Freedom (Chicago Children's Theater); The Christians (Steppenwolf Theater); Black Odyssey (Denver Theatre Center, Denver CO.); First Wives Club (Pre-Broadway). Landon was also Assistant Orchestrator for American Idol seasons 14 and 15.  

Dereque Whiturs (Choreographer) is a native of Dallas, Texas, who has trained with Alvin Ailey, Ulysses Dove Donald McKayle, Donald Byrd, Talley Beatty, and George Faison. He was a principal dancer with Alvin Ailey for 13 years and performed as Joseph in Mike Malone's Black Nativity and Congo Square for more than 10 years.  He was a principal dancer with Deeply Rooted Dance Company and currently teaches at Deeply Rooted Dance Company and is an instructor at Chicago High School for the Arts. Whiturs has extensive experience in dance education from Dallas to Europe. 

TICKET INFORMATION
A Nativity Tribute takes place at the Driehaus Museum, 50 East Erie, Wednesday and Thursday evenings, December 4-5, 2024, 7-8:30pm. Tickets are $50 (general admission) and $35 for students with ID. Tickets are on sale now HERE.

ABOUT THE AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM OF PERFORMING ARTS
The African American Museum of Performing Arts (AAMPA) was founded in 2019 by award-winning television and stage actor and director Harry J. Lennix and TaRon Patton. AAMPA's mission is to study, memorialize, and present works that celebrate the contributions of Black performance to arts and culture from the perspective of African American performing artists globally. AAMPA's ultimate objective is to become a nationally recognized center for African American history and tradition within the performing arts. AAMPA was founded in response to a lack of resources for African American artists of all disciplines to gather, to learn from their ancestors and each other, and to amplify their significant contributions to the performing arts in an environment that centers African American voices. AAMPA's partnership with the Driehaus Museum began in December 2023 when the organizations produced a Kwanzaa Celebration, followed by a one-woman show entitled Tammy McCann Presents: Mahalia Jackson at Carnegie Hall. 

ABOUT THE DRIEHAUS MUSEUM
The Driehaus Museum engages and inspires the global community through exploration and ongoing conversations in art, architecture, and design of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Its permanent collection and temporary exhibitions are presented in an immersive experience within the restored Nickerson Mansion, completed in 1883, at the height of the Gilded Age, and the Murphy Auditorium, built in 1926. The Museum's collection reflects and is inspired by the collecting interests, vision, and focus of its founder, the late Richard H. Driehaus. For more information, visit driehausmuseum.org and connect with the Museum on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Pegasus Theatre Chicago is proud to announce the authors and plays being presented at the 38^th Annual Young Playwrights Festival, January 5 - 26, 2025 at Chicago Dramatists, 798 N. Aberdeen. Previews are Thursday, Jan. 2 - Saturday, Jan. 4 at 7 p.m. with the Opening Ceremony, Sunday, Jan. 5 at 2:30 p.m. The performance schedule is Fridays at 7 p.m. and Saturdays at 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 - $30 and go on sale Friday, Nov. 22 at PegasusTheatreChicago.org. Educators may schedule school group matinees via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

For nearly four decades, the Young Playwrights Festival, the oldest such festival in the United States, has engaged and inspired high school students across Chicago by teaching them to craft one-act plays. More than 300 submissions are received annually with the winning teen playwrights’ productions being work-shopped, staged by industry professionals and receive a premiere under the auspices of Pegasus Theatre Chicago’s Young Playwrights Festival.

“The 2025 Young Playwrights Festival brings some exciting new works for the new year from new voices to Chicago,” said Executive and Producing Artistic Director Ilesa Duncan.”For 38 years, Pegasus has produced new plays as an outlet for the young writers’ creativity. We look forward to sharing these playwrights’ stories inspiring the next generation of writers and audiences.”

The 38^th Young Playwrights Festival includes:

Family Fishing Trip by Lydia Vodopic

(Lane Tech College Prep High School, Teacher: Kirsten Hanson)

Directed by Ruben Carrazana

Sal takes his kids Jenny and Mike on a family fishing trip that takes a turn for the worse. When secret schemes are uncovered and possible criminal activity is involved, this family has to put their differences aside and work together to make it back home.

Love & Gyros by Lily Zhang

(Whitney M. Young Magnet High School, Teacher: Elizabeth Danesh)

Directed by Reshmi Hazra Rustebakke

After decades apart, James and Cecelia, two former high school sweethearts, bump into each other at a restaurant on a faraway island in Greece. Throughout the evening, fragments of the past are revealed and revisited in this recollection of youth, time and memory.

Superheroes Anonymous by Carolina Boss

(Whitney M. Young Magnet High School, Teacher: Elizabeth Danesh)

Directed by Ilesa Duncan

Several undercover superheroes meet in the basement of a Pump It Up for a support group where they discuss their problems.

The current production team for the 38^th Annual Young Playwrights Festival includes: Ruben Carrazana (director, Family Fishing Trip); IIesa Duncan (director, Superheroes Anonymous); Reshmi Hazra Rustebakke (director, Love & Gyros) and Addoris Davis (production manager).

ABOUT THE DIRECTORS

ABOUT RUBEN CARRAZANA, DIRECTOR, Family Fishing Trip

Ruben Carrazana is an actor, director, writer, producer and teaching artist originally from Miami. After working professionally in the Dallas theater scene for several years, he moved to Chicago, and was formerly the community engagement manager at Northlight Theatre. Carranza is a recipient of the Eisemann Edge Initiative grant with OutLoud Dallas, the Edyth Renshaw Award, an Activating Vacancy grant from bcWORKSHOP and the National Endowment for the Arts, a TACA Resiliency Initiative Grant, an Individual Artists Program Grant from the City of Chicago, a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency and a three-time recipient of grants from the City of Dallas Office of Arts and Culture. He also co-founded The Tribe, a theater collective dedicated to the development of original work in Dallas, and named a Dallas Mastermind by the Dallas Observer. He is currently a Steering Committee member of the Cultural Access Collaborative. He holds a BFA in Theatre from Southern Methodist University.

ABOUT ILESA DUNCAN, DIRECTOR, Superheroes Anonymous

Ilesa Duncan is the executive and producing artistic director at Pegasus Theatre Chicago and the former artistic director and an ensemble member at Lifeline Theatre. She has directed numerous plays for Pegasus’ Young Playwrights Festival as well as Dontrell, Who Kissed the Sea, Eclipsed (Jeff Nominated), Shakin’ The Mess Outta Misery (Jeff Nominated), Rutherford’s Travels (Jeff Nominated, co-adapter), The Green Book, For Her as a Piano, and Blacula: Young, Black & Undead. At Lifeline, she recently directed the Jeff Nominated Native Son, From the Mississippi Delta, Neverwhere (Jeff Recommended 2018) and Blue Shadow (2010 KidSeries Premiere). A producer, director, writer, educator and theater-maker, Duncan is an avid collaborator on new work. Duncan has also worked with The Goodman, Writers Theatre, Congo Square, Rivendell Theatre Ensemble, Stage Left and Chicago Dramatists, as well as Contemporary American Theatre Company (Ohio), The Alliance Theatre (Atlanta), Arena Stage (Washington D.C.) and Lincoln Center Theater (New York). As an educator, she has led youth development and arts education programs in Chicago for more than 13 years. She is a past awardee of an NEA/TCG Directing fellowship and a 3 Arts Ragdale’s Fellowship. She is a member of the Lincoln Center Theatre Director’s Lab and the Chicago Director’s Lab and is an associate artist with Chicago Dramatists (where she previously served as education and community engagement director).

ABOUT RESHMI HAZRA RUSTEBAKKE, DIRECTOR, Love & Gyros

Reshmi Hazra Rustebakke is a multi-faceted film and theater maker who develops work as a creator, director, producer, storyteller and curator. She works creatively developing new work and also directing, producing and production managing many varieties of shoots and plays. She has worked at The Vineyard, Playwrights Horizons Theatre, New York Theatre Workshop, TimeLine Theatre, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Free Street and many more. She is the co-director of critically acclaimed BRUJOS and director for 8,000, FOBia,The Haven, Ethel and Agnes, Geeta’s Guide to Moving On and several more projects in development. She has her BFA from New York University, Playwrights Horizons Theatre School. During her time in New York, she received the Robert Moss Directing Fellow at Playwrights Horizons Theatre, as well as the Artist of Color Fellowship at New York Theatre Workshop.

ABOUT PEGASUS THEATRE CHICAGO

Pegasus Theatre Chicago has been a mainstay in the Chicago theater community for more than four decades. Its mission is to champion new, authentic voices and produce boldly imaginative theatre primarily by and about black or other people of color. Home of the Young Playwrights Festival, the company promotes cultural equity while celebrating intercultural communication. Pegasus is committed to initiating important conversations through the arts with strong community engagement and socially relevant programming. The Young Playwrights Festival for high school-age scribes celebrates its 38^th year in 2025. Pegasus Theatre Chicago has received 77 Joseph Jefferson Awards since its inception.

Pegasus Theatre Chicago is proud to announce the authors and plays being presented at the 38^th Annual Young Playwrights Festival, January 5 - 26, 2025 at Chicago Dramatists, 798 N. Aberdeen. Previews are Thursday, Jan. 2 - Saturday, Jan. 4 at 7 p.m. with the Opening Ceremony, Sunday, Jan. 5 at 2:30 p.m. The performance schedule is Fridays at 7 p.m. and Saturdays at 2:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 - $30 and go on sale Friday, Nov. 22 at PegasusTheatreChicago.org. Educators may schedule school group matinees via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Music Theater Works is proud to announce the cast and creative team for the final production of its 2024 season, Legally Blonde: The Musical, in the Center Theatre at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, 9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, December 19 - 29. Legally Blonde: The Musical, with music and lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin and book by Heather Hach, is directed by Mandy Modic, choreographed by Mollyanne Nunn and music directed by Linda Madonia. The schedule includes a preview performance Thursday, Dec. 19 at 7:30 p.m. with a press opening Friday, Dec. 20 at 7 p.m. The performance schedule includes Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m., with an additional performance on Thursday, Dec. 26 at 2 p.m. Tickets are now on sale from $19.50 to $106 with tickets for guests 25 years old and younger available at half-price at MusicTheaterWorks.com or by calling the Music Theater Works box office at the North Shore Center, 847.673.6300. Group discounts are also available for groups of 10 or more by contacting 847.920.5360.

This much fun should be illegal! Legally Blonde: The Musical, based on the cult classic film, shares the story of Elle Woods and her faithful pup, Bruiser on their journey from Southern California roots to the hallowed halls of Harvard Law School. Join Elle as she learns life’s important lessons on the subjects of love, friendship, the law and self-respect.

The cast of Legally Blonde: The Musical includes, in alphabetical order: Eric Amundson (he/him, ensemble/U/S Emmett); Lanja Andriamihaja (she/her, Kate/ensemble); Michael Davis Arnold (he/him, Chad/Dewey/ensemble); Kiana Beverly (she/her, ensemble); Sabrina Bowen (she/her, Margot/ensemble); Claire Campbell (she/her, ensemble/dance captain); Crystal Claros (any with respect, Vivienne Kensington); Connor Crumley (she/her, swing); Riley Dominiak (she/her, Mom/ensemble/U/S Vivienne); Isaiah Engram (he/they, Kyle/ensemble); Lili Galluzzo (she/they, Chutney/ensemble/U/S Trio); Amanda Handegan (she/her, Brooke Wyndam); Ibrahim Khan (he/him, Sandeep/ensemble); Will Leonard (he/him, Elle’s Dad/ensemble/U/S Professor Callahan/U/SKyle); Víctor López (any with respect, Carlos/ensemble); Matthew Millin (he/him, ensemble); David Moreland (he/him, Emmett Forrest); Khaki Pixley (she/her, Paulette Buonofonte); Daniel Rausch (he/him, Warner Huntington III); Madison Jaffe-Richter (she/her, ensemble/U/S Elle); Connor Ripperger (he/they, Aaron/ensemble/U/S Warner); Selena Robinson (she/her, Pilar/ensemble); Morgan Schoenecker (she/her, Serena/ensemble/U/S Brooke); Kayla Shipman (she/her, Elle Woods); Ava Stovall (she/her, Enid/ensemble/U/S Paulette); Alex Villaseñor (he/him, Nikos/ensemble/U/S Carlos); Korey White (he/him, Professor Callahan).

Legally Blonde: The Musical’s creative team is Mandy Modic (she/her, director); Mollyanne Nunn (she/her, choreographer); Linda Madonia (she/her, music director); Amber Wuttke (she/her, fight/intimacy choreographer); Kathy Logelin (she/her, dialect coach); Liv Meinders (she/her, stage manager); Olive Ferguson (she/her, assistant stage manager); Shane Cinal (he/him, scenic designer); Ab Rieve (they/them, props designer); Kristen Brinati (she/her, costume designer); Reve Smith (they/them, wardrobe head); Alice Salazar (she/her, hair/wig/makeup co-designer); Melanie Saso (she/her, hair/wig/makeup co-designer); Chelsea Lynn (she/her, lighting designer); Riley Woods (they/them, ME and board programmer); Matthew R. Chase (he/him, sound designer); Forrest Gregor (he/him, production sound engineer); Andersonville Scenic Studios (scene shop); Chris Chase (he/him, production manager) and Katie Meine (she/her, company manager).

“Behind the Curtain with Thomas M. Shea”

Immediately following the Sunday, Dec. 22 and Thursday, Dec. 26 performances , audiences may join musical theater historian Thomas M. Shea, author of “Broadway’s Most Wanted,” for a post-show talk exploring the behind-the-scenes history of Legally Blonde: The Musical.

Binny’s Broadway Lounge

Music Theater Works’ Donors of any level and subscribers are welcome to access Binny’s Broadway Lounge before the performance and at intermission of Legally Blonde: The Musical. Binny’s Broadway Lounge, sponsored by Binny’s Beverage Depot, is located on the second floor at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie and offers complimentary drinks and snacks and does not require reservations. The Lounge is available during Legally Blonde: The Musical, Friday, Dec. 20 (opens at 6 p.m.) and Saturday, Dec. 22 (opens at 1 p.m.). 

ASL Interpreted Performance

The Friday, Dec. 27 at 7:30 p.m. performance will be ASL interpreted.

ABOUT MANDY MODIC, DIRECTOR

Mandy Modic is so excited to now be on the creative team at the theater where she had her first professional acting gig. Some favorite credits: Matilda (director/choreographer) Cinderella and The Sound of Music (choreographer/associate director), Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Beauty and the Beast, Something Rotten, 42nd Street, State Fair, Newsies, and Irving Berlin’s White Christmas (choreographer). Modic is passionate about educational theater and has helped build musical theater programs abroad in Shanghai, China and Lima, Peru. As a performer, she has toured and performed at various theaters around the country, most recently seen performing in Guys and Dolls at Drury Lane Theatre. 

ABOUT MOLLYANNE NUNN, CHOREOGRAPHER

Mollyanne Nunn is thrilled to be returning to Music Theater Works where she was last seen in Pippin (co-choreographer/ensemble) and Mamma Mia! (ensemble). Recent theatre credits include The Love Object (The Story Theatre), A Chorus Line (Metropolis Performing Arts Centre), Can-Can, The Musical (Porchlight Music Theatre), and Lysistrata Jones (Refuge Theatre Project).  Other recent credits include Hairspray (Paramount), Rent and Hair (Metropolis Performing Arts Centre), Swing and The Wizard of Oz (Little Theatre on the Square), Next to Normal (Towle Theatre), The Crystal Spider (Haven Theatre), and Within (Visceral Dance Chicago). She teaches Contemporary, Ballet, Tap, and musical theatre at Dovetail Studios. She is also a first company member of Ardent Dance Company and rehearsal director for Identity Performing Arts. Nunn is a graduate from Columbia College Chicago where she earned her BFA in musical theatre.

ABOUT LINDA MADONIA, MUSIC DIRECTOR

Linda Madonia is thrilled to be back at Music Theater Works where she has previously worked on Shrek the Musical, Mamma Mia! and Camelot. Other recent projects include; Jersey Boys, Rock of Ages and Sister Act at Mercury Theater Chicago. Anything Goes, Cabaret and A Chorus Line at Porchlight Music Theatre. Madonia also serves as the contractor for the Chicago Federation of Musicians for Porchlight Music Theatre, Music Theater Works and Teatro Zinzanni. She is the vocal coach for the master’s degree program in music theatre pedagogy at Carthage College and owns American Eagle Productions, which has been at the forefront of theatre education in the Chicago area for the past 35 years.

COMING UP FROM MUSIC THEATER WORKS

Music Theater Works announced its 2025 season in August. The 45th season includes Guys and Dolls, March 6 - 30, 2025; Fiddler on the Roof, August 7 - 17, 2025; Godspell, October 23 - November 16, 2025 and a fourth production to be named running December 18, 2025 - January 4, 2026. Current season ticket holders may renew for the 2025 season now with new subscription sales available now with single tickets for all the 2025 productions going on sale Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025 at 12 p.m. For more information on the 45th season go to MusicTheaterWorks.com.

ABOUT MUSIC THEATER WORKS

Music Theater Works is a resident professional not-for-profit music theater founded in

1980. During its 44-year history it has presented more than 150 productions and intimate presentations. Music Theater Works is a professional theater company whose mission is to present works for the musical stage including historic repertoire, revitalizing the Golden Age of Broadway and earlier works, celebrating the Great American Songbook and introducing modern classics.

Northlight Theatre, under the direction of Artistic Director BJ Jones and Executive Director Timothy J. Evans, continues its 2024–2025 season with Louisa May Alcott's Little Women adapted by Lauren Gunderson from the novel by Louisa May Alcott, directed by Associate Artistic Director Georgette Verdin.

Due to early demand a week has been added to the run, which was originally scheduled to close December 29, 2024. Little Women runs November 29, 2024 – January 5, 2025, at Northlight Theatre, 9501 Skokie Blvd in Skokie. 

The cast includes Tyler Meredith (Louisa/Jo), Janyce Caraballo (Meg), Demetra Dee (Beth), Yourtana Sulaiman (Amy), Lucy Carapetyan (Marmee/Aunt March), John Drea (Laurie), and Erik Hellman (John/Friedrich).

Four sisters find their voices in 19th century New England, proving that sisterly bonds are more powerful than the friendships, hardships, romantic entanglements, and inevitable losses they face along the way. In a time marked by societal expectations, the shared love and feminine strength of the March sisters shines through. Captivating readers for generations, this beloved classic is a timeless tale of family, resilience, and a determined young writer finding her way in the world.

In a unique creative partnership, Northlight is one of four regional theaters that have jointly commissioned playwright Lauren Gunderson to adapt the classic novel. This new theatrical work will enjoy a "rolling" world premiere with four independent productions occurring between 2024-2026 in each of the partnering theaters' home locale. It will play first at Northlight Theatre with subsequent productions at City Theatre Company (Pittsburgh, PA) People's Light (Malvern, PA), and TheatreWorks Silicon Valley (Palo Alto, CA). The co-commission partnership represents an example of how regional nonprofit producers continue to adapt to post-pandemic financial realities while exploring new partnerships that allow for the continued investment in the commissioning of new work for the stage. All four theaters have a history of producing plays by Gunderson.

The creative team is Sotirios Livaditis (set design), Raquel Adorno (costume design), Emma Deane (light design), Christopher Kriz (original music and sound design), Nicolas Bartleson (props design), Jake Snell (production assistant) and Sarah Slight (dramaturg). The stage manager is Katie Klemme.

The Lead Sponsor for Little Women is Byline Bank.

Tickets are available through the box office at 9501 Skokie Blvd in Skokie; 847.673.6300; northlight.org

After pausing its operations last year to reorganize and create a new business model, Chicago's Tony-Award winning Lookingglass Theatre Company, in association with The Actors Gymnasium, is proud to announce the cast and creative team for the world premiere of Circus Quixote, January 30 - March 30, 2025, in the Lookingglass' Joan and Paul Theatre at Water Tower Water Works, 163 E. Pearson St. at Michigan Ave. The renovated lobby, bar and café will reopen Thursday, Jan, 30, as well, with its menu and programming to be announced in the coming months. Based on Miguel de Cervantes' Don Quijote of La Mancha, adapted and directed by Kerry and David Catlin with circus by Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi and featuring Michel Rodríguez Cintra, Micah Figueroa, Julian Hester, Laura Murillo Hart, Andrea San Miguel, Ayana Strutz and Eduardo Martinez, Circus Quixote has previews Thursday, Jan. 30 - Saturday, Feb. 1 at 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 2 at 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 5 - Friday, Feb. 7 at 7:30 p.m. Opening night is Saturday, Feb. 8 at 6 p.m. The performance schedule for February 9 - March 30 is Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 7 p.m., Thursdays at 1:30 and 7 p.m., Fridays at 7 p.m., Saturdays at 1:30 and 7 p.m. and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. The estimated running time is two hours and 15 minutes including one intermission. Circus Quixote single tickets are $30 - $80 and available now along with 2024 - 2025 Season Memberscriptions (Lookingglass Theatre's new creation combining memberships and subscriptions) at LookingglassTheatre.org.

For more than 400 years, Miguel de Cervantes' Don Quijote of La Mancha has inspired readers and cultures across the globe. Lookingglass' production, first incubated at The Actors Gymnasium, brings this literary classic to life anew in 2025. Somewhere in La Mancha there lived a man who read so many books about chivalry that his brains dried up. In this world premiere, Lookingglass transports audiences tiltingly and acrobatically into the dreamy madness of Don Quixote and his impossible folly-filled quest to bring good-deed doing back into the world ... whether the world wants it or not.

"We are incredibly excited to reopen Lookingglass, in your favorite castle on Michigan Avenue, with this hilarious and inspiring story of a mad dreaming knight and his endlessly reliable squire," said Ensemble Member David Catlin. "We are grateful to collaborate with the Lookingglass production team, our endlessly inventive designers and Actors Gymnasium, where our courageous and widely talented actors learn to fly."

The cast of Circus Quixote includes, in alphabetical order: Michel Rodríguez Cintra (he/him, Don Quixote); Micah Figueroa (he/him, Sanson Carrasco), Laura Murillo Hart (she/her, Dulcinea); Julian Hester (he/him, Master Nicolas); Eduardo Martinez (he/him, Cervantes/Sancho); Andrea San Miguel (she/her/they/them, Antonia) and Ayana Strutz (she/her, Sister Sofia). More information on the cast and creative teams may be found here.

The creative team of Circus Quixote is David Catlin (he/him, co-writer and director); Kerry Catlin (she/her, co-writer and associate director); Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi (she/her, circus and movement choreographer); Courtney O'Neill (scenic designer); Daphne Agosin (lighting designer); Sully Ratke (costume designer); Grover Hollway (sound designer); Kevin O'Donnell (composer); Amanda Herrmann (props supervisor); Lee Brasuell (rigging designer; Grace Needlman (puppet designer); Helen Lattyak (stage manager) and Aaron McEachran (assistant stage manager).

ABOUT DAVID CATLIN, adaptor and director

David Catlin is a founding ensemble member, actor, writer, director, and former artistic director of Lookingglass. Caitlin adapted and directed Lookingglass Alice, Mary Shelley's Frankenstein and Moby Dick. Other Lookingglass writing credits include: Icarus, Her Name Was Danger and the idiot (Jeff Award for Adaptation). Additional Lookingglass directing credits include: The Little Prince, Black Diamond (co-director), Metamorphosis, The Master and Margarita (co-director) and West. He is an artistic associate with The Actors Gymnasium and serves as head of undergraduate acting at Northwestern University.

ABOUT KERRY CATLIN, adaptor and director

Kerry Catlin is thrilled to be working at Lookingglass again where she has served as master teacher, education co-director, director of Lookingglass Young Ensemble and assistant director of development. She has written, adapted and directed four circuses at The Actors Gymnasium including Circus Quixotic, All the Time in the World and a circus adaptation of Mary Zimmerman's The Odyssey. Catlin serves on the board of directors for The Actors Gymnasium and teaches English and research at Walter Payton College Prep, a Chicago public school.

ABOUT SYLVIA HERNANDEZ-DISTASI, circus

Sylvia Hernandez-DiStasi is artistic director and co-founder of The Actors Gymnasium. She also serves as master teacher and director of The Professional Circus Training Program and is a faculty member at Northwestern University's Department of Theatre. Hernandez-DiStasi is a second generation circus performer who grew up touring with various circuses, including Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey. In 2019, she and her family, The Hernandez Troupe, were inducted into the Circus Ring of Fame for their monumental contributions to the world of circus. She is an ensemble member of the Tony Award-winning Lookingglass Theatre Company since 1999, where she has worked on over 20 productions. She has received four Joseph Jefferson Awards for her work with Lookingglass (Lookingglass Alice, Hard Times, Baron in the Trees) and Marriott Theatre (All Night Strut), and a total of five Joseph Jefferson nominations. In 2018, she won a Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Award and a Robby Award, both for designing the acrobatic/aerial choreography of the South Coast Repertory staging of Moby Dick. Other theater credits include The Lyric Opera, Writer's Theatre, Steppenwolf, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Chicago Children's Theater and The Goodman. She is the recipient of The 3Arts Award for Design (2014) and also received an Award of Honor for Outstanding Contributions by The Illinois Theater Association.

ABOUT MICHEL RODRÍGUEZ CINTRA, "DON QUIXOTE"

Michel Rodríguez Cintra is an award-winning Cuban born dancer, actor, circus performer and educator. Rodríguez Cintra is currently a visiting assistant professor at NIU with the School of Theater and Dance and faculty at the Actors Gymnasium. He graduated from Escuela Nacional de Arte (National School of Arts) in Havana, Cuba with a degree in dance performance. In Cuba, he performed with Danza Contemporánea de Cuba where he became principal dancer and toured internationally. Since moving to Chicago, Rodríguez Cintra has danced with various companies including Hedwig Dances, Concert Dance Inc, Khecari, The Cambrians and Hubbard Street Dance Chicago. Later, he joined Lucky Plush Productions, a nationally recognized Chicago-based dance-theater company. His dance creations have been seen at Visceral Dance Chicago, Dancing in the Parks, Lit & Luz Live Festival , LatinX Chicago Arts Festival and The Harvest Chicago Contemporary Dance Festival. His work in theater includes the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival and Lookingglass Theatre Company's Lookingglass Alice, which was recorded, and aired as a PBS special. Other accolades are his inclusion in "The Men of 2010 in Dance" by Time Out Chicago, 3Arts Award in Dance, Dance Magazine's "25 to Watch 2014" and a Jeff Award nomination.

ABOUT THE JOAN AND PAUL THEATRE

The main stage at the Water Tower Water Works has been named in honor of longtime Lookingglass supporters Joan and Paul Rubschlager and their transformational gift to ensure the future of Lookingglass. The couple have been instrumental in their partnership with Chicago organizations, such as Rush University and The Field Museum. Nationally, their support extends to the American Heart Association and Alzheimer's Association. The Joan and Paul Theatre reconfigures the stage and audience seating as dictated by the needs of each season, with a capacity of 200 persons including the balcony.

ABOUT THE ACTORS GYMNASIUM

Founded in 1995, The Actors Gymnasium has grown to become one of the nation's premiere circus and performing arts training centers. Dedicated to bringing a new physicality to the American theatre, through developing physical performers and encouraging ground-breaking theatrical exploration, The Actors Gymnasium promotes its core values of creativity, community and courage across three program areas: classes, shows and event entertaining.

ABOUT LOOKINGGLASS THEATRE COMPANY

Founded in 1988 by graduates of Northwestern University, Lookingglass Theatre Company is a nationwide leader in the creation and presentation of new, cutting-edge theatrical works and in sharing its ensemble-based theatrical techniques with Chicago-area students and teachers through Education and Community Programs. Guided by an artistic vision centered on the core values of collaboration, transformation and invention, Lookingglass seeks to capture audiences' imaginations leaving them changed, charged and empowered.

Recipient of the 2011 Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre, Lookingglass has built a national reputation for artistic excellence and ensemble-based theatrical innovation. Notable world premieres include Mary Zimmerman's Tony Award-winning Metamorphoses and The Odyssey, J. Nicole Brooks' Her Honor Jane Byrne, David Schwimmer's adaptation of Upton Sinclair's The Jungle and Studs Terkel's Race: How Blacks and Whites Think and Feel about the American Obsession, Matthew C. Yee's Lucy and Charlie's Honeymoon and David Catlin's circus tribute to Lewis Carroll, Lookingglass Alice, which was captured by HMS Media and reached 1.6 million PBS viewers.Looking Alice is now available to more than four million students worldwide through Digital Theatre+. Work created by Lookingglass artists has been produced in Australia, Europe and dozens of cities throughout the Unite States.

MORE FROM LOOKINGGLASS

WORLD PREMIERE

Iraq, But Funny

May 29 – July 20, 2025

Joan and Paul Theatre at Water Tower Water Works, 163 E. Pearson St. at Michigan Ave. Written by Atra Asdou

Directed Dalia Ashurina

A raucous satire about five generations of Assyrian women reclaiming their stories, as narrated by a British guy. Making its world premiere at Lookingglass Theatre, Ensemble Member Atra Asdou's original dark comedy jauntily marches through the Ottoman Empire to modern-day U.S.A. exploring history, family and dysfunction.

Lookingglass Young Ensemble

March 2025

The Lookingglass Young Ensemble (YE) is a group of Chicago-area young adults, ages 13-18 years old, committed to building their theater skills, lifting their voices and developing their creativity through collaborative creation. Three months of rehearsal and ensemble-building amongst this incredible group of artists will culminate in three public performances.

Lookingglass Outdoors

Summer 2025

Lookingglass takes their art outside the historic Water Tower Water Works and into the neighborhoods through special events like Sunset 1919, educational opportunities like summer camp and recurring programs that tour around town. This summer, Lookingglass continues its ambitious video project to bring Chicago together despite the lines that divide us, 50 Wards: A Civic Mosaic. The series currently has 10 wards available for viewing at LookingglassTheatre.org.

BrightSide Theatre has announced that it will perform the long-running hit Broadway musical JEKYLL AND HYDE in a concert presentation at North Central College's Madden Hall, for two weekends in January. The lush and romantic score with music by Frank Wildhorn and lyrics by Leslie Bricusse features power ballads like "This is the Moment" and "Someone Like You" as well as comic numbers including "Bring On the Men." This thrilling music will be sung by a cast of 16 that will be accompanied by a 10-piece orchestra. De Haddad will direct, guiding the cast through Robert Louis Stevenson's classic story of a scientist who develops a potion giving him a second personality by unleashing his evil nature and turning him at times into a serial killer. Phil Videckis will be Music Director. Also on the production team are Tim Elliott (Sound Mixer) and Kristin Ripoli (Stage Manager). The press performance is Friday, January 17 at 7:30 pm.
 
Appearing as Jekyll and Hyde will be Gerald Kelel of Chicago, whose previous roles with BrightSide Theatre include Count Carl Magnus in A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC,  Professor Harold Hill in THE MUSIC MAN, Gary Lejeune in NOISES OFF, Fredrick Graham in KISS ME KATE, and Don Lockwood in SINGIN' IN THE RAIN. Julie Kornak of Naperville, whose many roles with BrightSide Theatre include Charlotte in A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC, Amalia in SHE LOVES ME, Tanya in MAMMA MIA!, Claudia in NINE IN CONCERT, and Francesca in THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY, will play Jekyll's fiancée Emma Carew. Rachel Carreras, also of Naperville, will make her BST debut as the prostitute Lucy who comes to know both Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Some of Carrera's recent credits include CINDERELLA (Marie) at Metropolis PAC; and HONKY TONK ANGELS (Angela), INTO THE WOODS (The Witch), THE MUSIC MAN (Mrs. Squires), I DO! I DO! (Agnes), SOMETHING ROTTEN (Bea Bottom), and SPRING AWAKENING (Wendla).

The additional cast members, all of whom will perform in the ensemble as well as playing individual roles, will include Russell Badalamenti (Hoffman Estates, "Gabriel John Utterson"), Stan Austin (Winfield, "Sir Danvers Carew"), Sean Rhead (Tinley Park, "Simon Stride"), Julie Bayer (Batavia, "Lady Beaconsfield"), Brady McNeil (Wheaton, "The Bishop of Basingstoke"), Grey Sindaco (Chicago, "Lord Savage" and "Male Customer"), Nicholas J. Grenias ("Lemont" and "General Lord Glossop"), Jay White (Chicago, "Sir Archibald Proops"), Meghan Kessel (Chicago, "Nellie" and u/s "Lucy"), John Salamone ("Shorewood," and "Spider"), Amy Steele (Naperville, "Bisset" and u/s "Emma"), Molly Bremer (Chicago), and Sarah Conrad (Oswego).
 
JEKYLL AND HYDE IN CONCERT is the second production of BrightSide Theatre's 2024-25 season, its 13^th. In honor of the superstitions surrounding the number 13, the season is titled "Spells and Superstitions," and its four productions will each enter, in varying ways, supernatural or magical realms. The season opened in October with BST's highly acclaimed production of DRACULA. JEKYLL AND HYDE IN CONCERT will be followed in April and May with Shakespeare's A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM. In June, BST will have "Magic to Do" with their production of PIPPIN.
 
JEKYLL AND HYDE IN CONCERT will be performed  Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:00 pm from January 17 through 26, 2025. Performances will be in the Madden Theatre, North Central College, 171 Chicago Avenue, Naperville. Tickets are  $37.00 for adults and $32.00 for students and seniors. Tickets are on sale now at www.BrightSidetheatre.com or by phone at 630-447-TIXS (8497). 

Hell in a Handbag Productions is pleased to open its 2024/25 Season with the 25^th anniversary edition of Artistic Director David Cerda's* holiday classic Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer (An Unauthorized Musical Parody), directed by Anthony Whitaker, playing December 13, 2024 – January 5, 2025 at Hoover Leppen Theatre at Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St. in Chicago. Tickets are now on sale at handbagproductions.org or buytickets.at/hellinahandbagproductions/1452754. 

This beloved and twisted musical parody of the animated 1967 children's television special features all your favorite misfits and Rudolph – the cross-dressing reindeer with a penchant for red hose and heels. In trademark Handbag style, Rudolph combines parody with heartfelt moments and a splash of scathing social commentary.

The cast includes ensemble members David Cerda*, Sydney Genco*, Caitlin Jackson*, Lori Lee*, and Terry McCarthy* with Eustace Allen, Mark Bartishell, Kelly Bolton, Cameron Cai, Michael Hampton, Micah Mixon, TJ O'Brien, Shawn Quinlan, Michael Radford, Peter Ruger, Matt Sergot and Whitney Willard Wilkinson. Understudies include: Sophia Dennis, Douglas Levin, Al Duffy and Vito Vittore.

The production team includes Marcus Klein (Scenic Designer), Marquecia Jordan (Costume Designer), Liz Cooper (Lighting Designer), Maya Reter, (Sound Designer), Maggie O'Brien (Props Designer), Jamal Howard (Choreographer), Chad Gearig (Music Director), Syd Genco* (Make-Up Designer), Keith Ryan* (Wig Designer), Veronica Kostka* (Production Manager), Tom Daniel (Technical Director), Jackson Mikkelsen (Electrician), Michael S. Miller (Graphic Designer), Nihan Baysal (Stage Manager) and Sara Blickem (Assistant Stage Manager).

Benefit Weekend

Handbag will host a weekend of benefit performances Friday, December 20 – Sunday, December Sunday, December 22, 2024 with a pre-show party including appetizers, plus the option of VIP reserved seating, drink tickets and a gift bag. There will also be raffles and a silent auction with fabulous items to bid on. All proceeds will support Handbag's mission to serve Chicago audiences with the best camp and parody – thus ensuring the preservation and celebration of this unequivocally queer art form.

*Denotes Handbag Ensemble Member

PRODUCTION DETAILS:

Title: Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer (An Unauthorized Musical Parody)

Playwright: Artistic Director David Cerda*
Director: Anthony Whitaker
Cast (in alphabetical order): Eustace Allen (Tom Donner, Choo Choo), Mark Bartishell (Drag Beast, Ensemble), Kelly Bolton (Herbie), Cameron Cai (Spike/Ensemble), David Cerda* (Gladys Dasher), Sydney Genco* (Elfina, Choo Choo), Michael Hampton (Santa), Caitlin Jackson* (Mrs. Claus, Dolly), Lori Lee* (Yukon Cornelia), Terry McCarthy* (Connie Blitzen, TT Barbie), Micah Mixon (Jane Donner, Ensemble) TJ O'Brien (QMR, Ensemble), Shawn Quinlan (Andy Cohen), Michael Radford (Score, Half Naked Cowboy), Peter Ruger (Rudolph), Matt Sergot (Sam the Snowman) and Whitney Willard Wilkinson (Clarice).

Understudies: Sophia Dennis, Al Duffy, Douglas Levin and Vito Vittore.

Location: Hoover Leppen Theatre at Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St., Chicago

Previews: Friday, December 13 at Saturday, December 14 at 7:30 pm
Opening/Press performance: Sunday, December 15 at 7:30 pm
Regular run: Wednesday, December 18, 2024 – Sunday, January 5, 2025
Curtain Times: Thursday, Fridays and Saturday at 7:30 pm; Sundays at 3 pm. Please note: there will be added performances on Wednesday, December 18 at 7:30 pm and Monday, December 30 (Industry Night).

Special Benefit Performances: Friday, December 20 at 7 pm, Saturday, December 21 at 7 pm and Sunday, December 22 at 3 pm. Please note early curtain times on Friday and Saturday.

Tickets: $29 previews, $39 early bird general admission, $45 general admission, $50 at the door, $52 advanced VIP/reserved ticket with no drink ticket, $60 advanced VIP/reserved seating with drink ticket. Group rates $36 for 10 or more.

Benefit Performance Tickets: $60 general admission (includes appetizers) and $125 VIP/reserved (includes reserved seating, appetizers, drink ticket and gift bag).

Tickets for all performances are now on sale at handbagproductions.org or buytickets.at/hellinahandbagproductions/1452754.

About the Artists

David Cerda (Playwright) is a founding member and Artistic Director of Hell in a Handbag Productions, now celebrating its 23^rd year anniversary. As resident playwright, he has written many Handbag productions as well as acted in them. His play, The Drag Seed was recently produced at LaMaMa Experimental Theater and his Golden Girls Lost Episodes parody shows have been produced around the country and was featured in Golden Con: Thank you for being a Fan, the world's first fan convention dedicated to all things Golden Girls at Chicago's Navy Pier. Cerda is a proud inductee into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame and recipient of a Jeff Award for lifetime achievement for his 23 years (and counting) of work and service to the community. He lives in Chicago with his partner, Christopher.

Anthony Whitaker (Director) is happy to be returning to Hell In a Handbag after having directed the Jeff-nominated Murder Re-Wrote and a week-long run as Happy The Elf in The Golden Girls Save Christmas. They most recently appeared in Sign Of The Traveler, a self-written solo performance, Anything Goes (Porchlight Music Theatre), Cabaret (Metropolis Performing Arts Center) as Herr Schultz and La Cage Aux Folles with Ginger Minj (Music Theater Works). They are the Co-Artistic Director the New American Folk Theatre (newamericanfolktheatre.org), where they wrote and/or performed in productions of, Two from the Trailer Court, The Marvelous Land of Oz, Dark of the Moon, Trash. Hot Pink, My Life Is A Country Song and directed the Jeff-nominated The Summer of Daisy Fay, written by Ed Howard and based on a novel by Fannie Flagg. Some of their favorite Chicago performances include Whoop Dee Doo (Royal George Theatre), A Funny Thing Happened... (Porchlight), Hands On A Hardbody (Refuge Theatre) and Shockheaded Peter (Black Button Eyes). In addition to performing, Anthony teaches music and theatre in various Chicago area schools. They recently completed the short films, Shape Notes and The Caretaker, and has appeared on Chicago PD. They are represented by Big Mouth Talent.

About Hell in a Handbag Productions

Hell in a Handbag is dedicated to the preservation, exploration, and celebration of works ingrained in the realm of popular culture via theatrical productions through parody, music and homage. Handbag is a 501(c)(3) Not for Profit. For additional information, visit handbagproductions.org.

Due to popular demand, Steppenwolf Theatre is pleased to announce Jane Lynch's A SWINGIN' LITTLE CHRISTMAS has added a sixth and final performance to its nearly sold-out engagement December 12 - 15, 2024 in Steppenwolf's Downstairs Theater, 1650 N. Halsted St. in Chicago. The newly-added show on Sunday, December 15 at 7:30 is now on sale at steppenwolf.org/christmas or by calling the Box Office at (312) 335-1650.

Five-time Emmy winner Jane Lynch takes the stage with Kate Flannery, Tim Davis and the Tony Guerrero Quintet in this hilarious and heartwarming holiday extravaganza that promises a delightful blend of comedy and music – and a swingin' good time! The group has brought their joyful banter to audiences across the country, with their holiday album A Swingin' Little Christmas hitting Billboard's Top 10 Adult Contemporary chart. Hollywood Digest calls it "captivating," the comedy "spectacular" and the vibe "absolutely precious."

Production Details:

Dates: December 12 - 15, 2024
Performance schedule: Thursday & Friday at 7:30 pm; Saturday & Sunday at 3 pm & 7:30 pm.
Tickets: $79 - $139. For tickets, visit steppenwolf.org/christmas or call the Box Office at (312) 335-1650.

Artist Biographies:

Jane Lynch is a five-time Emmy winner known for her portrayal of Sue Sylvester on Glee. She currently hosts NBC's Weakest Link and appears in Only Murders in the Building on Hulu. Additional television credits include The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, The Good Fight and Two and a Half Men. Lynch's film credits include The 40-Year-Old Virgin, Julie & Julia and Best In Show. Along with Kate Flannery, Tim Davis and The Tony Guerrero Quintet, Jane tours the country with their annual holiday show, A Swingin' Little Christmas. The album is available on all music platforms.

Kate Flannery is best known for her nine seasons as Meredith the drunk on NBC's The Office. Kate was a fan favorite on Season 28 of ABC's Dancing With The Stars, touring live at Radio City Musical Hall and 40 cities. Television guest star appearances include Magnum P. I., Young Sheldon and Brooklyn Nine Nine. She can be seen in dozens of indie films including The Prank with Rita Moreno.

Tim Davis has been producing vocalists and music on film, television and artist recordings for countless projects for the past 28 years, including all five seasons of Glee on FOX. An accomplished singer himself, Tim has sung on hundreds of projects, and still performs with artists like Idina Menzel and Barbra Streisand.

The Tony Guerrero Quintet has been a staple of the Southern California jazz scene for many years. Featuring Tony Guerrero (trumpet/piano), Matt Johnson (drums), Mark Visher (sax/flute), Dave Siebels (keyboards) and David Miller (bass). In 2016, they released the holiday album A Swingin' Little Christmas, that landed a spot in the Top Ten of the Billboard Adult Contemporary charts. The title track, an original Tony Guerrero composition, went to #6 on the Billboard charts. The Tony Guerrero Quintet's own recordings have been a staple on jazz radio for over thirty years.

Accessibility:

Steppenwolf is committed to making the theatergoing experience accessible to everyone. Assistive listening devices are available for every performance and all our spaces are equipped with an induction hearing loop. Our building features wheelchair accessible seating and restrooms, push-button entrances, a courtesy wheelchair and all-gender restrooms, with accessible counter and table spaces at our bars. For additional information regarding accessibility, visit steppenwolf.org/access. If you have questions or would like to make a specific request, e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call our box office at 312-335-1650.

The Joffrey Ballet's critically acclaimed reimagined classic, The Nutcracker by two-time Tony Award®-winning choreographer Christopher Wheeldon, returns to the Lyric Opera House, 20 North Upper Wacker Drive, in 25 performances, December 6 – 28, 2024. Set in Chicago's World's Fair in 1893, Wheeldon's The Nutcracker highlights the rich cultural heritage of Chicago and the wonder of the season.

New this year, The Joffrey Ballet offers a Discount Family Series package that provides up to 25% savings when families purchase tickets to The Nutcracker and Wheeldon's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, which takes place June 5-22, 2025. A holiday gift that extends beyond the season, the two-program subscription begins at $72. Tickets are available now at joffrey.org.

"A Chicago story of family and adventure, The Nutcracker is often the entry point for many people to witness the spectacle of the Joffrey," Greg Cameron, President and CEO, said. "Closing our 69^th season, we will offer another invitation into a world where dreams come to life with Christopher Wheeldon's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. We hope the new Discount Family Series is 'the gift that keeps giving' for many families in Chicago this year. Joffrey magic doesn't end with the holidays—it's here all season long."

"A cherished tradition, The Nutcracker brings us together to explore the true meaning of the holiday season," said The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director Ashley Wheater MBE. "For some, it's a nostalgic journey; for others, a new, enchanting adventure. Each performance serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of family, wonder, and belonging. Set against the backdrop of Chicago, The Nutcracker seamlessly blends our history with our dreams—a gift we are honored to share with our community each year."

Wheeldon's American tale of an immigrant family during the Chicago World's Fair in 1893 opens as young Marie and her mother, a sculptress creating the Fair's iconic Statue of the Republic, host a festive Christmas Eve celebration. After a surprise visit from the creator of the Fair, the mysterious Great Impresario, Marie embarks on a whirlwind adventure with the Nutcracker Prince through a dreamlike World's Fair.

A ballet in two acts set to Tchaikovsky's classic score, The Nutcracker features an award-winning creative team, including Tony Award®-nominated set and costume designer Julian Crouch, Caldecott Medal Award-winning author Brian Selznick, Obie and Drama Desk award-winning puppeteer Basil Twist, Tony Award®-winning lighting designer Natasha Katz and Tony Award®-winning projection designer Ben Pearcy/59 Productions. The production was adapted in 2021 by Wheeldon to fit the larger Lyric Opera House stage.

The Nutcracker features live music performed by the Lyric Opera Orchestra, conducted by Scott Speck, Music Director of The Joffrey Ballet.

With gratitude to The Nutcracker Presenting Sponsor Guarantee Trust Life Insurance Company, and Production Sponsor AARP Illinois.

Schedule

The Joffrey Ballet performs The Nutcracker Friday, December 6–Saturday, December 28, 2024.

The full schedule is as follows: Friday, December 6 at 7:00 PM; Saturday, December 7 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM; Sunday, December 8 at 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM; Thursday, December 12 at 7:00 PM; Friday, December 13 at 7:00 PM; Saturday, December 14 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM; Sunday, December 15 at 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM; Thursday, December 19 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM; Friday, December 20 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM; Saturday, December 21 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM; Sunday, December 22 at 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM; Tuesday, December 24 at 2:00 PM; Thursday December 26 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM; Friday, December 27 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM; and Saturday, December 28 at 2:00 PM.

Single tickets start at $36 and are available for purchase online at Joffrey.org/Nutcracker, by telephone at 312.386.8905 or at Lyric Opera Box Office located at 20 N. Upper Wacker Dr.

About The Joffrey Ballet 

The Joffrey Ballet is one of the premier dance companies in the world today, with a reputation for boundary-breaking performances for 69 years. The Joffrey repertoire is an extensive collection of all-time classics, modern masterpieces, and original works. 

Founded in 1956 by pioneers Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino, the Joffrey remains dedicated to artistic expression, innovation, and first-rate education and engagement programming. The Joffrey Ballet continues to thrive under The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director Ashley Wheater MBE and President and CEO Greg Cameron.

The Joffrey Ballet is grateful for the support of its 2024-2025 Season Sponsors: Abbott Fund, Alphawood Foundation Chicago, Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation, The Florian Fund, Gallagher, Anne L. Kaplan, and Live Music Sponsors: Sandy and Roger Deromedi, Sage Foundation, Robert and Penelope Steiner Family Foundation, and The Marina and Arnold Tatar Fund for Live Music. The Joffrey also acknowledges Season Partners: Chicago Athletic Clubs, and Athletico Physical Therapy, official provider of physical therapy for The Joffrey Ballet.

For more information on The Joffrey Ballet and its programs, visit joffrey.org. Connect with the Joffrey on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. 

 Lifeline Theatre brings their first MainStage production of the 2024-25 season to the stage with Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol. Tom Mula's holiday tale is presented as a one-man show, starring Lifeline ensemble member Phil Timberlake.

In Dickens' Christmas Carol, Scrooge gets a chance to amend his ways, but we never find out what happened to his partner, Jacob Marley. Audiences can find out at Lifeline Theatre's production of Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol, a one-man show written by Goodman Theatre's own Scrooge, Tom Mula, and performed by longtime Chicago actor and Lifeline Ensemble member, Phil Timberlake. This holiday tale features one actor, nineteen characters and two hours of good cheer.

Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol

By Tom Mula
Performed by Lifeline Theatre ensemble member Phil Timberlake

November 29 – December 22, 2024

Regular tickets $45; preview tickets $25

Previews: November 29 – December 1
(Friday at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday at 2:30 p.m.)

Regular Run:  December 6 – December 22
(Fridays at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.; Sundays at 2:30 p.m.)

Tickets to Jacob Marley's Christmas Carol are on sale at lifelinetheatre.com/performances/2024-2025/christmas-carol/ Season memberships for the 2024-2025 are also available now. To purchase season memberships or for more information call the Lifeline Theatre Box Office at 773-761-4477, or visit www.lifelinetheatre.com.

ABOUT LIFELINE THEATRE
Lifeline Theatre is located at 6912 N. Glenwood Ave. in Chicago's Rogers Park neighborhood. Lifeline is easily accessible by CTA (Red Line Morse stop/buses) and free parking is available at Sullivan High School (6631 N Bosworth Ave, lot located on the corner of Albion and Bosworth). Street parking is also available. Lifeline is accessible to wheelchair users and visitors who need to avoid stairs. 

Founded in 1982, Lifeline Theatre is known for staging innovative adaptations of great works of fiction as well as commissioning original work. In 1987, Lifeline Theatre added KidSeries plays for children and families, and has been producing full seasons of programming for both adults and children ever since.  Over the course of its forty-two seasons, Lifeline Theatre has made not only an indelible mark on the Chicago theater scene, but an invaluable contribution to the theater world at large. Lifeline's dedicated artistic ensemble has developed one hundred and forty-six world premiere literary adaptations and original plays, nearly forty of which have had a life beyond their Lifeline premieres, with over three hundred subsequent productions spread across over forty U.S. states, six Canadian provinces, plus productions in England, Ireland, Australia, South Africa, and Guatemala. Additionally, four scripts developed at Lifeline Theatre have gone on to U.S. national tours, and over a dozen have been published. Lifeline Theatre has garnered a total of fifty-three Jeff Awards (Equity and Non-Equity), including sixteen for New Adaptation, New Musical, or New Work.