Chicago Issue 1 August/September 2008 by Footlights.com

CELEBRATING THE ARTS FOR 20 YEARS September/October 2008

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Publisher’s Note When we reached our landmark 20-year anniversary this past season, we introduced a new logo, changed to a non-traditional book size and switched to a “greener” paper stock. We’re not done yet. This season, we’re launching a new web site, retooling the editorial format and giving the cover a new, exciting look. Why all this change? We’re always tweaking our relationship with our major clients: the arts organization or venue, the audience and the advertiser. We reflect each of their perspectives in order to improve our service and product.

Check it out — ALL NEW this season: • A regular editorial feature on cultural/lifestyle themes such as fashion, travel and education. Here’s an opportunity for advertisers to show their wares and relate them to you, the theatergoer. • More Arts Briefs — We’re covering more news and events with shorter reads. We’ll keep you up to date on everything that’s going on in the arts industry. • New cover art featuring enhanced photographs of theater architecture. Can you identify the venue? By purchasing a ticket to an event and eating out today, you’ve already contributed to the economic impact of the arts in your city. We hope that you attend a show again soon to keep the arts alive! Please visit footlights.com or read on to plan your next arts experience.

Best regards,

Steve Marcus Founder and Publisher Footlights

Issue 1, September-October ‘08 Published by Marcus Promotions, Inc. The content of any article in this publication is based solely on the opinion of its writer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Marcus Promotions, Inc., Footlights, or its staff. The center program content is at the sole discretion of the performing arts group. Any errors, omissions, or inconsistencies are their responsibility. Inquiries or comments should be directed accordingly.

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Footlights is printed with soy ink on paper made of 30% postconsumer and postindustrial products. By using this recycled paper, we have reduced our annual ecological footprint by 817 trees — the equivalent of a forest made up of 16.7 football fields; 499,864 gallons of water — the equivalent of a 105-day shower and 147,713 pounds of air emissions — the equivalent of 13.4 cars’ emissions per year.

Cover photo by tomjulio

page 6

CONTENTS The State of the Arts: Theater and the Economy by Jonathan Abarbanel A NOTE FROM THE LEAGUE OF CHICAGO THEATRES

ARTS SCENE Chicago’s Performing Arts Guide.

ARTS BRIEFS

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

SCENE & BE SEEN

The State of

Theater and the By Jonathan Abarbanel

One of the big-cast shows of the 2008-2009 season is Seanachai Theatreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SCENES FROM THE BIG PICTURE. Pictured front to back: Dan Waller, Anne Sunseri, J. David Moeller (in dark hat), Sarah Wellington, Jeff Christian, John Dunleavy and Barbara Figgins.

the Arts: Economy

Chicago’s theater industry sells some 5.5 million tickets a year, according to the League of Chicago Theatres, resulting in an economic impact to the city and state approaching three-quarters of a billion dollars a year and growing. The success of our regional theater industry is a barometer of sorts for our overall economic health, so it’s fair to assess the state of the arts today, as the 2008-2009 theater season is about to begin. To begin with the obvious, the economic times are a’ changin’ and not for the better. The last major national economic downturn — following the attacks of 9/11/2001 — directly affected theater and other performing arts, although the effect wasn’t felt instantly. In fact, in the autumn and winter months following 9/11, people flocked to theaters in record numbers, refusing to let fear keep them house-bound and seeking temporary diversion from a somber and serious world. Nonprofit theaters were further protected by foundation and corporate funding commitments made six months or more in advance. In other words, by Sept. 11, 2001, funds for the 2002-2003 theater year already were in the pipeline. But the crunch eventually did come as institutional and individual giving for the arts declined the next year on. Even large nonprofit theaters tightened their belts circa 2003-2005, often operating on zero-growth budgets adjusted only for inflation. Sharp audience members may

have observed that most theaters produced plays with smaller casts and — too often — less artistic risk. As an evaluator for the National Endowment for the Arts during this period, this writer assessed many theater budgets and program choices through the lean years, gathering both empiric and anecdotal evidence of the effects of the downturn. By 2006, the United States had recovered from the slump and funding institutions returned to their previous generosity. Theater budgets increased, sometimes substantially, and this writer could announce in the trade newspaper, PerformInk (Oct. 13, 2006), that large-cast shows were back. Large casts had remained the norm for musicals and Shakespeare productions, but now smaller Off Loop theaters were putting 12 or more actors on stage in venues of 150 seats or less and paying them all, even non-Equity talent. In the first weeks of the 2006-2007 season, The House Theatre fronted a cast of 20 for HATFIELD AND MCCOY, Remy Bumppo fielded 14 7

for THE BEST MAN, Northlight Theatre had 13 for INHERIT THE WIND and Griffin Theatre sprung for 28(!) to stage the Depression-era classic, DEAD END, and they weren’t alone. The theater industry today is in a spot similar to September 2001, facing a weak economy, although for different reasons. The 2008-2009 season is secure, as funding commitments were made months ago, and — sure enough — the season schedule indicates that large-cast shows still are with us, but enjoy them while you can. Smart theater managers are viewing the next two years with considerable caution, as institutional and individual donors face a double whammy: they’ve seen their income fall with interest rates, and now the value of their portfolios is declining sharply. There’s less money to give and far less incentive to take a profit — if there’s any to take — and donate a portion as a taxdeductible charitable gift. It’s probable that the arts are in for a new period of belt-tightening. The state of the arts also can be assessed by the level of public funding lavished on them, which at the federal level is less than fifty cents per capita through the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). The NEA budget for fiscal 2009 isn’t a done deal, but Congress has proposed $160 million (rounded to nearest million), up from $144 million in fiscal 2008. If approved by the House and Senate, it’s likely to become law as part of an omnibus appropriations bill and would be the highest level of NEA funding since 1994, although still below the agency’s peak funding of $176 million in the late 1980s and early 1990s. On the other hand, funding for the Illinois Arts Council (IAC) is lower as the agency has been bounced around (it’s not alone among state agencies) in the warfare between Gov. Rod Blagojevich and the state legislature. As of mid-July, it appeared that the IAC would be funded at $16.2 million for fiscal 2009, the same level as fiscal 2008. Nonprofit theater companies don’t rely on state or federal funding — a wellmanaged troupe looks to public funding for no more than 5 percent of its budget 8

— but grants from the NEA and IAC help establish the merit of a theater company when approaching private sector donors and sponsors. When you read through a theater’s program magazine (Chicago

The 2008-2009 season is secure, as funding commitments were made months ago, and — sure enough — the season schedule indicates that large-cast shows still are with us, but enjoy them while you can. Footlights, we hope), look for the fine print that says “Funded, in part, by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency” or “…by the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.” Meantime, here are a few of the bigcast shows coming up as the 2008-2009 theater season begins to roll. TimeLine Theatre offers 11 actors in Gore Vidal’s stylish political potboiler, WEEKEND, August 23 - October 12; Seanachai Theatre will perform the contemporary Irish play, SCENES FROM THE BIG PICTURE with a cast of 21 at the Storefront Theatre, August 29 - October 5; Pegasus Players opens its season with CONTINENTAL DIVIDE: MOTHERS AGAIN & DAUGHTERS OF THE REVOLUTION, a repertory of two politically-charged David Edgar plays with a cast of at least 15, October 6 - November 9. There are others as well, plus a range of typically big musicals and productions of classics. For the time being, the state of the arts is good, but forewarned is forearmed. The state of JONATHAN ABARBANEL is growing older but holding steady. He reviews plays for 848 on Chicago Public Radio (available via streaming audio: www.chicagopublicradio.org), and covers theater industry business for the trade paper, PerformInk (also available online). ■ On the following pages are profiles of some of Footlights’ many performing arts clients. Take a look at their exciting upcoming season line-ups.

New World Repertory Theater Jean Gottlieb and Alison Henderson Co-Artistic Directors Founding Member and Artistic Director since 2003, Jean Gottlieb has a Masters Degree in Directing from DePaul University’s The Theatre School and has worked in theater as an actress, director, producer and playwright for more than thirty years. Alison Henderson holds a Master’s Degree in Directing and Dramaturgy from Roosevelt University's Chicago College of Performing Arts and is a Certified Movement Analyst in Laban Movement Studies through Columbia College Chicago. Alison joined NWRT as Artistic Director in 2006.

2008-2009 Season A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM by William Shakespeare October 11 – November 8, 2008 Dare to Dream… XTREME HOLIDAY MAKEOVER December 5 – 28, 2008 An improvisation-based holiday extravaganza! BETRAYAL by Harold Pinter February 21 – March 21, 2009 An intriguing love triangle… THE FABLED FOREST April 4 – 11, 2009 Classic tales entwine in an original show.

630.663.1489 | newworldrep.org 9

Lifeline Theatre Dorothy Milne, Artistic Director & Ensemble Member Dorothy has been the Artistic Director of Lifeline Theatre since 1999, where she has directed numerous productions including AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS, JANE EYRE,WHOSE BODY?, STRONG POISON, GAUDY NIGHT, THE TALISMAN RING, A ROOM WITH A VIEW and THE MARK OF ZORRO. Lifeline acting credits include COOKING WITH LARD, TALES OF THE LOST FORMICANS and PRIDE AND PREJUDICE along with a few chickens and cows on the KidSeries stage.

2008-2009 Season MainStage: THE PICTURE OF DORIAN GRAY September 12-November 2, 2008

Outside of Lifeline, she most recently directed STARDUST for Griffin Theatre. She is a 14-year member of the writingperforming group, the Sweat Girls, which performs in Chicago and nationally including such shows as I'M SWEATING UNDER MY BREASTS, THE MOTHERLODE, PIGS AT THE TROUGH OF ATTENTION and currently SWEATALICIOUS. Dorothy is also one of the organizers of the Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest, an annual Rogers Park arts/music/theater festival.

THE MARK OF ZORRO At Theatre Building Chicago September 25-November 23, 2008 MARIETTE IN ECSTASY February 13-April 5, 2009 BUSMAN'S HONEYMOON May 1-June 21, 2009 KidsSeries: DUCK FOR PRESIDENT October 11-November 30, 2008 SNOWFLAKE TIM'S BIG HOLIDAY ADVENTURE December 13, 2008-January 4, 2009 FLIGHT OF THE DODO December 20, 2008-February 22, 2009 MRS. PIGGLE-WIGGLE March 14-May 3, 2009

773.761.4477 | lifelinetheatre.com 10

THE MARK OF ZORRO Photo by Suzanne Plunkett

Lookingglass Theatre Company in the Water Tower Water Works on Michigan Avenue

David Catlin Artistic Director & Ensemble Member David Catlin's smash hit adaptation of the stories of Lewis Carroll, LOOKINGGLASS ALICE, returned to Lookingglass for a third summer to rave reviews and sold-out houses. The production toured in 2007 to New York, Philadelphia and Princeton. He will appear as Dr. Gibbs alongside a record number of fellow Ensemble Members in the upcoming production of OUR TOWN in the spring of 2009.

2008-2009 Season THE BROTHERS KARAMAZOV By Fyodor Dostoevsky, translated by Richard Pevear and Larissa Volokhonsky Adapted and Directed by Ensemble Member Heidi Stillman A World Premiere Lookingglass Original October 15 - December 7, 2008

His Lookingglass credits as an adaptor, director and actor include: BLACK DIAMOND (co-direction), ARGONAUTIKA (acting) MANUSCRIPT FOUND AT SARAGOSSA (acting), METAMORPHOSIS (direction), HARD TIMES (acting), THE IDIOT (adaptation & direction), THE MASTER AND MARGARITA (co-direction), and WEST (direction). David has taught for Northwestern University, The Actor's Gymnasium, and Lookingglass Theatre Company. He lives in Chicago with his fam

OUR TOWN By Thornton Wilder Directed by Anna D. Shapiro and Jessica Thebus February 11 - April 5, 2009 THE ARABIAN NIGHTS Adapted and Directed by Ensemble Member Mary Zimmerman Produced in association with Berkeley Repertory Theatre and Kansas City Repertory A Lookingglass Original May 20 - July 12, 2009

Lookingglass Alice Photo by Sean Williams

312.337.0665 | lookingglasstheatre.org 11

Light Opera Works Bridget McDonough, General Manager Rudy Hogenmiller, Artistic Director Bridget McDonough has been employed in arts management since graduating from Northwestern University in 1978. She co-founded LIGHT OPERA WORKS in 1980, and has produced more than 450 performances of 91 shows for the company, including Chicago and American premieres by Kálmán, Bernstein, Offenbach and others. Multiple Jeff Award winner, Rudy Hogenmiller began his tenure as LIGHT OPERA WORKS' artistic director in 2005, and has directed and choreographed many productions for the company, including SOUTH PACIFIC, THE MIKADO, THE MERRY WIDOW, DARLING OF THE DAY and THE SOUND OF MUSIC.

2008-2009 Season SIDE BY SIDE BY SONDHEIM A Musical Entertainment Music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim And Leonard Bernstein, Mary Rodgers, Richard Rodgers and Jule Styne September 28 – November 9, 2008

THE MUSIC MAN Book, Music and Lyrics by Meredith Willson Story by Meredith Willson and Franklin Lacey December 26, 2008 – January 4, 2009 THE MUSIC MAN

847.869.6300 | light-opera-works.org 12

Next Theatre Company Kevin Heckman, Managing Director

2008-2009 Season THE U.N. INSPECTOR By David Farr With additional contributions to the American version of the play by James Sherman Directed by Jason Loewith American Premiere September 12 – October 12, 2008 A hilarious satire revealing corruption, conspiracies and cover-ups at the highest levels of power.

WELL By Lisa Kron Directed by Damon Kiely Chicago-area Premiere November 13 – December 14, 2008 “Kron’s hilarious, deeply affecting play cuts to the core of the mother-daughter relationship” – Entertainment Weekly

Kevin joins Next Theatre having served for seven seasons with Chicago's provocative Stage Left Theatre, initially as the Managing Director and most recently as the Producing Artistic Director. Under his leadership, Stage Left has tripled its individual giving, seen unprecedented board development and modernized its internal infrastructure. As a theater artist, Heckman has received numerous accolades for directing, writing, performance and design, including a total of seven Joseph Jefferson Award nominations for productions he has helmed. Heckman is an associate artist at Chicago Dramatists and an ensemble member at Stage Left. “Given his long experience at Stage Left – where he was passionate about the same kind of socially relevant work we do – I know that Kevin is going to add immeasurably to this institution’s growth,” remarked Artistic Director Jason Loewith. “And as an Evanstonian, he’s ready to fully integrate Next Theatre into the fabric of our community.” Welcome, Kevin!

WAR WITH THE NEWTS By Jason Loewith and Justin D.M. Palmer Based on the novel by Karel Čapek Directed by Jason Loewith World Premiere February 5 – March 8, 2009 An incredibly timely satire about a global economy planting the seeds of its own destruction.

THE OVERWHELMING By J.T. Rogers Directed by Kimberly Senior Chicago-area Premiere April 16 – May 17, 2009 A potent, gripping drama about the challenges facing a progressive American in a foreign country on the brink of disaster.

DEFIANCE, 2007

Next Theatre features flexible subscription packages, beginning at just $80.

847.475.1875 x2 | nexttheatre.org 1313

American Players Theatre David Frank Producing Artistic Director David Frank joined APT as Artistic Director seventeen years ago, and has served as Producing Artistic Director for the past three. He has spent much of his career heading professional theatre companies, including eleven years as Artistic Director of Studio Arena Theatre in New York and eight years as Producing Director of St. Louis Repertory Theater. He is past chairman of the theater panels of The National Endowment for the Arts and the New York State Council of the Arts.

2008 Season A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM By William Shakespeare June 7 – October 5, 2008 AH, WILDERNESS! By Eugene O’Neill June 13 – October 4, 2008 HENRY IV: THE MAKING OF A KING By William Shakespeare June 20 – September 20, 2008 WIDOWERS’ HOUSES By George Bernard Shaw August 1 – October 4, 2008 THE BELLE’S STRATAGEM By Hannah Cowley August 8 – October 3, 2008

608.588.2361 | playinthewoods.org 14

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM Photo by Zane Williams

A NOTE FROM THE LEAGUE OF CHICAGO THEATRES by Myrna Petlicki And the winner is… Chicago is a phenomenal theater town and we’re not the only ones who think so. We have it on good authority that knowledgeable people across the country agree. In June, Chicago Shakespeare Theater received the 2008 Regional Theatre Tony Award. It is the fourth Chicago theater company so honored since the award was established in 1976—an achievement unmatched by any other city. The earlier winners were Steppenwolf Theatre (1985), Goodman Chicago Shakespeare Theater's Theatre (1992) and Victory Gardens Theater (2001). Artistic Director Barbara Gaines The honor is given each year to a nonprofit professional and Executive Director Criss regional theater company in the United States that has Henderson accepted the 2008 Regional Theatre Tony Award®. displayed a continuous level of artistic achievement Photo by Lyn Hughes contributing to the growth of theater nationally. The award recipient is recommended by the American Theatre Critics Association, whose 275 members are located across the country. The honor is presented by the Broadway League and the American Theatre Wing. “Chicago has become the gold standard of national theater,” says Deb Clapp, interim executive director of the League of Chicago Theatres. “We congratulate Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Victory Gardens Theater, Goodman Theatre and Steppenwolf Theatre for being recognized as among the finest theater companies in the country.”

Arts Scene Theater COMEDYSPORTZ OF CHICAGO Ongoing Chicago’s No. 1 interactive improv experience. ComedySportz Theatre 929 W. Belmont Ave. 773-549-8080 comedysportzchicago.com Theater NIXON’S NIXON August 19-October 4, 2008 Remount of award winning production. William Brown and Larry Yando reprise roles as Kissinger and Nixon in this hilarious and brilliantly imagined story of what might have happened the night before Nixon resigned. Writers’ Theatre 325 Tudor Court, Glencoe 847-242-6000 writerstheatre.org Musical LOVE IN THE MIDDLE AGES August 21-September 21, 2008 It’s “The Dating Game” for those over 40. Join Jennifer as she discovers single people from her parents’ generation struggling with many of the same problems she does. World

premiere musical comedy by Scott Urban and Robert Solone. Village Players Performing Arts Center 1010 W. Madison St., Oak Park 866-764-1010 village-players.org Theater SCENES FROM THE BIG PICTURE August 28-October 5, 2008 Moving from shops to pubs to life on the street, this urban story masterfully weaves together the lives of 20 characters in 40 scenes into a 24-hour slice of contemporary Belfast life. Seanachai Theatre Company Storefront Theater 66 E. Randolph St. 312-742-8497 dcatheater.org Theater THE PEOPLE’S TEMPLE September 4-21, 2008 1978. Jonestown, Guyana. An interracial religious group, led by charismatic leader Jim Jones, moves to the remote jungles of South America to build a utopian community. Chicago premiere.

For up-to-date event listings, visit footlights.com 17

HEARING IS BELIEVING by Myrna Petlicki A devoted daughter puts herself at risk to help her dad regrow the ear he lost to a dog years earlier in DR. EGG AND THE MAN WITH NO EAR. The family show, based on a Catherine Fargher story, with music by Lara Golan, premiered in Australia under Jessica Wilson’s direction. Wilson is collaborating with Jim Lasko, artistic director of Redmoon Theater, on a new version opening Sept. 4 at Redmoon Central.

Colin Sneesby as Dr. Egg and Lara Tumak as Daughter in the original Australian production of DR. EGG AND THE MAN WITH NO EAR. Photo by Ken Drake

Lasko last worked with Wilson on a spectacle to celebrate the 30th anniversary of an arts building in Tasmania. After Lasko offered Wilson a little help with the Australian DR. EGG production, they decided to bring the show to this country. Lasko describes the production as “a wonderful combination of many different things all working really well together. There’s puppetry, live performance, and a beautiful soundtrack that we’re composing in Chicago. It’s about something quite topical, and yet it’s treated with a light touch. It’s thought-provoking and plays equally well to children and adults.” Children will identify with the lead character, “a young girl in a dilemma,” Lasko says. Grown-ups will appreciate the fact that “It’s a smart show and it’s visually, endlessly interesting because of all the different media being employed.” Redmoon Theater’s production of DR. EGG AND THE MAN WITH NO EAR runs September 4-October 19, 2008, at Redmoon Central, 1463 W. Hubbard Street. For tickets and information, call 312-8508440, ext. 111 or visit redmoon.org. 18

American Theater Company, 1909 W. Byron St. 773-409-4125 atcweb.org Theater DR. EGG AND THE MAN WITH NO EAR September 4-October 19, 2008 Through puppetry, projected animation, original music and performance, family production playfully explores the moral and ethical dilemmas society faces as new developments are made in health and fertility. Redmoon Theater Redmoon Central 1463 W. Hubbard St. 312-850-8440 redmoon.org Theater ESCANABA IN LOVE September 5-October 26, 2008 Prequel to ESCANABA IN THE MOONLIGHT. Visit the Soady deer camp in the midst of World War II, 40 years before the original. Meet the love of young Albert Soady Jr’s life along with a whole new cast of wacky Yoopers. Circle Theatre 7300 W. Madison St., Forest Park 708-771-0700 circle-theatre.org Theater MEN OF TORTUGA September 5-October 26, 2008 In an undisclosed location, three men scheme with a weapons specialist to eliminate the opposition in Jason Wells’ dark comedy of negotiation, conspiracy and assassination. Profiles Theatre, 4147 N. Broadway St. 773-549-1815 profilestheatre.org Musical CAROLINE, OR CHANGE September 11-October 19, 2008 The coins that 8-year-old Noah leaves in his pockets are more than spare change to an African American housekeeper working in a Louisiana laundry room in 1963. Deeply personal story from Tony Kushner blends blues, gospel and traditional Jewish melodies. Court Theatre 5535 S. Ellis Ave. 773-753-4472 courttheatre.org

Theater LILIES OF THE FIELD September 12-27, 2008 Heartwarming and hilarious play based on the Oscar-winning film. Set in the 1940s, it tells the story of an unemployed construction worker who is roped into building a church in the middle of the desert for a group of German nuns. Jedlicka Performing Arts Center 3801 S. Central Ave., Cicero 708-656-1800 jpactheatre.com Theater THE U.N. INSPECTOR September 12-October 12, 2008 Playwright James Sherman crafts a hero from Chicago in his adaptation of Gogol’s THE GOVERNMENT INSPECTOR. A washed-up real estate salesman exploits his mistaken identity as the dreaded U.N. Inspector for all it’s worth. Next Theatre 927 Noyes St., Evanston 847-475-1875 nexttheatre.org Theater THE PICTURE OF DORIAN GRAY September 12-November 2, 2008 A supernatural power grants Dorian Gray eternal youth and beauty. As the years pass and his outward form remains unmarred, his soul wallows in pride and sin in Oscar Wilde’s masterpiece. Lifeline Theatre 6912 N. Glenwood St. 773-761-4477 lifelinetheatre.com

Music BOZ SCAGGS IN CONCERT September 13, 2008 • 8 p.m. Rhythm and Blues never sounded so great. The Northern Lights Theater Potawatomi Bingo Casino 1721 West Canal St., Milwaukee paysbig.com or ticketmaster.com Theater BAILIWICK 2008 PRIDE SERIES September 13-October 19, 2008 Festival goes international with Chicago premieres of three works by emerging gay playwrights with international themes. Includes ANNA LIVIA, LUCKY IN HER BRIDGES, set in Dublin; CHIAROSCURO (STUDY IN SHADOW), set in Renaissance Rome; and FILTHY PERVERT SEEKS SAME, set in Australia. Bailiwick Repertory

LABOR-SAVERS by Myrna Petlicki Here’s a trivia question for you. When was the word “robot” first used? Shade Murray reports that it was in Karel Capek’s 1921 play, R.U.R.—ROSSUM’S UNIVERSAL ROBOTS, which he is directing for Strawdog Theatre Company.

Shade Murray directs Strawdog Theatre Company's R.U.R. Photo by Tom Hickey

“The original idea of Robot was not the steel and screws and nuts and bolts that we think about from the 1950s,” Murray relates. “These robots are organic, living material, almost similar to a clone. But their biological material is different from a human being. They have been genetically modified in a way that they are almost human, but not quite.” The scientists in this play designed the robots to do all the work, freeing actual humans to spend their time pursuing only pleasant activities, like creating art and falling in love. Murray indicates that the play brings up such issues as: “What is it that makes someone human? What is the essence of humanity?” Although the play was written over 85 years ago, it deals with issues we’re still facing today, Murray stresses. These include globalization, loss of jobs to the Third World and even the price of fuel. The director concludes, “There is always a cost to any attempt at easy living.” Strawdog Theatre Company’s production of R.U.R.—ROSSUM’S UNIVERSAL ROBOTS runs September 18-October 25, 2008, at 3829 N. Broadway Street. For tickets and information, call 773-528-9696 or visit strawdog.org.

1229 W. Belmont Ave. 773-883-1090 bailwick.org Musical CANDIDE September 13-November 2, 2008 Often-revived classic cult musical is part sophisticated operetta, part screwball comedy, with shades of Monty Python. Irreverent satire is the perfect musical expression of Voltaire’s tongue-in-cheek send-up of optimistic philosophies. Porchlight Music Theatre Theatre Building Chicago 1125 W. Belmont Ave. 773-327-5252 porchlighttheatre.com

his friends. At the same time, a mysterious figure haunts the city’s streets. Northlight Theatre 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie Call 847-673-6300 northlight.org Theater R.U.R.—ROSSUM’S UNIVERSAL ROBOTS September 18-October 25, 2008 Czech playwright Karel Capek’s 1921 play dramatizes the rise of robots over the human race. Directed by Jeff Award-winning company member Shade Murray. Strawdog Theatre 3829 N. Broadway St. 773-528-9889 strawdog.org Theater TEN CENT NIGHT September 18-October 26, 2008 Dad shot himself in the head and failed musician Roby Finley is on her way home to Burkeville, Texas, with a suitcase full of stolen cash to save her heartsick sister. World premiere family comedy from a time when a dime could buy you a phone call home. Chicago Dramatists 1105 W. Chicago Ave. 312-633-0630 chicagodramatists.org

Theater PICNIC September 16-November 17, 2008 William Inge’s American classic is frequently hilarious and profoundly moving. When a charismatic young drifter arrives in a small Kansas town on the eve of a Labor Day picnic, the simmering repressions of its residents come rapidly to a boil. Writers’ Theatre Tudor Court 325 Tudor Court, Glencoe 847-242-6000 writerstheatre.org Theater DR. JEKYLL AND MR. HYDE September 17-October 26, 2008 What happened the night that Henry Jekyll died? Against the backdrop of Victorian London, the respected doctor has begun to display alarmingly erratic behavior toward

Theater YOHEN September 18-November 2, 2008 A divorced Japanese woman and an African American GI meet in post-World War II Japan and fall in love. After decades of struggle, they have found an accepting Los Angeles suburb to call home—but their peaceful world is changing. Silk Road Theatre Project Pierce Hall at the Historic Chicago Temple Building, 77 W. Washington St. 312-857-1234 srtp.org Theater THE HIDING PLACE September 19-October 4, 2008 With the WWII Nazi invasion of Holland, the ten Boom family joins the underground resistance to help save persecuted Jewish families. When they’re arrested and imprisoned in concentration camps themselves, they’re left with nothing to cling to but their faith.

For up-to-date event listings, visit footlights.com 20

Overshadowed Theatrical Productions 210 S. Walnut St., Itasca 630-250-7518 overshadowedproductions.com Music PASSION AND GRACE September 21, 23, 2008 The passion evoked by the sensuous Latin American rhythm of the tango finds its ancient echo in medieval poetry when two twentieth century composers are explored in this unique pairing. Chicago Sinfonietta Dominican University 7900 W. Division St., River Forest (9/21)

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Symphony Center 220 S. Michigan Ave. (9/23) 312-236-3681, ext. 2 chicagosinfonietta.org Theater PEN September 24-October 19, 2008 Drama follows a Long Island family at a pivotal moment in their lives. A woman, confined to a wheelchair, and her son, are locked in a relationship where love, guilt, recriminations and the ever-present desire to make things right all share center stage. Apple Tree Theatre 1850 Green Bay Road, Highland Park 847-432-4335 appletreetheatre.com Theater INTIMATE APPAREL September 25-October 5, 2008 An African-American seamstress in turn-ofthe-century New York City fashions lingerie for clientele ranging from ladies of Fifth Avenue society to ladies of the night. The passionate, dangerous bond she forms with a man she has never met leads her to question her ability to fit into the society prescribed by her race and gender. Loyola University Theatre Kathleen Mullady Memorial Theatre 1125 W. Loyola Ave. 773-508-3847 luc.edu/theatre Musical BEEHIVE, THE 60’S MUSICAL September 26-October 19, 2008 A fast-paced and nostalgic look back at the girl groups and soloists of the time featuring songs by the Supremes, Aretha Franklin, Connie Francis, Lesley Gore, Petula Clark and more.

JIM BRICKMAN February 7, 2009

February 21, 2009

March 19, 2009

March 27, 2009

April 18, 2009

May 16, 2009

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Big Noise Theatre Company Prairie Lakes Theatre 515 E. Thacker St., Des Plaines 847-604-0275 bignoisetheatre.org Musical SIDE BY SIDE BY SONDHEIM September 28-November 2, 2008 Revue features works by Stephen Sondheim, including music from GYPSY, WEST SIDE STORY, COMPANY, FOLLIES and more. Light Opera Works Second Stage 1420 Maple Ave., Evanston 847-869-6300 lightoperaworks.org SIDE BY SIDE BY SONDHEIM

Theater THE PASSION OF DRACULA October 1-November 2, 2008 Mystery follows Jonathan Harker, Dr. Seward and Professor Van Helsing on their quest to save the beautiful Wilhelmina from the clutches of a smart and sexy Count Dracula. A timeless tale of passion and the undead. First Folio Shakespeare Festival Mayslake Peabody Estate 1717 W. 31st St., Oak Brook 630-986-8067 firstfolio.org Music THE BRITISH ARE COMING! October 3, 5, 11, 2008 A celebration of the glorious tradition of English music, from the Tudor cathedrals to the Beatles. Chicago a cappella Gottlieb Hall at Merit School of Music 38 S. Peoria St. (10/3) Music Institute of Chicago 1490 Chicago Ave., Evanston (10/5)

Pilgrim Congregational Church 460 Lake St., Oak Park (10/11) 773-755-1628 chicagoacappella.org Musical HAYWIRE! October 9-November 15, 2008 When the beautiful Miranda Towers returns to her circus after being in an insane asylum, mayhem ensues in this campy homage to ‘60s Joan Crawford horror films. Hell in a Handbag Productions Bailiwick Repertory 1229 W. Belmont Ave. 773-883-1090 handbagproductions.org Dance MUNTU DANCE THEATRE OF CHICAGO October 10, 2008 North Central College Dance Series presents Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago. North Central College Pfeiffer Auditorium 310 E. Benton Ave., Naperville 630-637-5368 northcentralcollege.edu Variety CIRQUE D’OR October 11, 2008 North Central College Performing Arts Series presents Cirque D’Or, the Golden Dragon Acrobats. North Central College Pfeiffer Auditorium 310 E. Benton Ave., Naperville 630-637-5368 northcentralcollege.edu Opera VANESSA October 11, 17, 19, 2008 Celebrate the Chicago premiere of Samuel Barber’s Pulitzer Prize-winning American masterpiece, VANESSA, in the 50th anniversary of its first performance. Directed by Francis Menotti, son of librettist and stage director of the 1958 Metropolitan Opera production, Gian Carlo Menotti. Chamber Opera Chicago Athenaeum Theatre 2936 N. Southport 312-951-7944 chamberoperachicago.org

For up-to-date event listings, visit footlights.com 22

Arts Briefs By Jonathan Abarbanel

M o r e u p - t o - d a t e n e w s o n l i n e a t f o o t l i g h t s . co m

Evanston’s Next Theatre Company has appointed Off Loop theater veteran Kevin Heckman as managing director. Heckman has been with Wrigleyville’s Stage Left Theatre for the last seven years, most recently as producing artistic director. He holds degrees in theater and mathematics and is a multiple Jeff Award nominee. After Heckman settles in, Next will focus on finding a successor to Artistic Director Jason Loewith, who has been named artistic director Kevin Heckman emeritus for the 2008-2009 season after leading Next for six years. A new AD is expected to be selected this autumn, allowing Loewith to spend more time with his partner in Washington D.C. and — no doubt — to pursue writing and directing opportunities resulting from the award-winning Off Broadway success of THE ADDING MACHINE: A MUSICAL, which Loewith co-authored. He’s Jason Loewith committed to directing one Next project in the 2008-2009 season and authoring another; hence, the emeritus status as he works with his successor to ensure a smooth transition.

The longtime resort town of Lake Geneva, Wis. now has a professional, nonprofit theatre troupe. The Lake Geneva Theatre Company debuted July 4 with a production of Noel Coward’s PRIVATE LIVES, under the leadership of founding Artistic Director Laura DeMoon. Performances took place at the historic Horticultural Hall in downtown Lake Geneva. Visit lakegenevatheatre.org for more information.

Amanda (Molly Glynn) and Victor (John Maclay) in Noel Coward’s PRIVATE LIVES

It’s been a summer of transition for many Off Loop theater companies as they’ve brought on new artistic or management leadership. Among key appointments: Bonnie Metzgar is the new artistic director at the high-profile About Face Theatre, known for its LGBT-themed work such as I AM MY OWN WIFE, TAKE ME OUT and PULP. Metzgar is the first non-founder to lead the 12-year-old company and will have the immediate challenge of selecting productions for the rapidly approaching new theater season. An experienced director and literary manager, Metzgar has left a post at Brown University to take up the About Face reins.

Calling all Middle Eastern American playwrights: you could be $10,000 richer! That’s the healthy commission fee for a new tri-coastal playwriting program announced in July by Chicago’s Silk Road Theatre Project, San Francisco’s Golden Thread Productions and New York City’s Lark Play Development Center. Middle East America: A National New Plays Initiative is the first nationwide effort to cultivate and support development of Middle Eastern American playwrights and their plays. The first winning writer will be announced in September. Visit middleeastamerica.org for more information. 23

Several Chicago shows have taken, or will take, to the road this summer. Theatre Oobleck‘s satirical, oddly political hit, THE STRANGERER, opened July 9 at New York’s Barrow Street Theatre for a six-week run (extension possible) with its Chicago cast of Guy Massey, Mickle Maher (also the author), Colm O’Reilly, and Brian Shaw. New York also features in plans for the

In mid-July, Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich used his line-item veto to cut $1.4 billion from the fiscal 2009 deficit budget passed by the Illinois General Assembly over his objections. His cuts removed a modest increase in funding for the Illinois Arts Council (IAC), leaving it at the same level as last year: $16.2 million. The House and Senate had added $3.5 million to the IAC appropriation at the urging of Speaker of the House Michael Madigan. Part of the IAC’s budget is provided by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), which is required to allot a certain proportion of its appropriation to state arts agencies. Last year, the IAC saw a modest increase in its NEA portion as Congress added $16.4 million to President Bush’s proposal of $128.4 million for the NEA, bringing the NEA budget to its highest level since 1994: $144.7 million. The same thing may happen in fiscal 2009. President Bush again proposed $128.4 million for the NEA, but the House of Representatives Interior Appropriations Subcommittee instead bumped up the NEA by $15.3 million over its 2008 appropriation. That would mean $160 million for the NEA if approved by the House and Senate. Since the President does not have line-item veto authority, the higher level of funding would become law as part of an omnibus appropriations bill. The portion directed to state arts agencies would rise from $39.4 million to $43.6 million.

No Place like Home Annoyance Theatre, which takes its necrophilia musical, LOVE IS DEAD, to the New York Fringe Festival in August. Not to be outdone, Chicago Shakespeare Theater is heading for the famous Edinburgh (Scotland) Fringe Festival with its new hit show, FUNK IT UP ABOUT NOTHIN’, which ran at Navy Pier through August 3.

by Myrna Petlicki You sit in a tiny storefront theater, within inches of the actors, and find yourself transported to the world of the play. One performance, in particular, has you mesmerized. It is only after the play ends that you wonder why such a consummate actor—who could most likely get roles anywhere—chooses to perform so frequently at such a small venue. We talked to four of Chicago’s finest actors about what keeps them connected to a particular company. Their responses are as varied as the actors but, for each of them, it boils down to a form of freedom—although that freedom sometimes comes with a price.

See footlights.com to read what they had to say.

Guy Van Swearingen with Helen Sadler in BLASTED '07 Photo by Michael Bros.

The Morse Theatre, a $6 million private venture reconstruction of the old movie house at 1330 W. Morse, has set September 6 as its opening date. Except for the facade and the rear walls, the original 1912 Morse was demolished to allow construction of a state-of-the-art, 299-seat small concert/ cabaret venue and separate restaurant. The Morse is being developed by Rogers The past and future Morse Theatre Park Entertainment Ventures, Inc. The entire complex will be ADA compliant and green compliant, featuring a high percentage of recycled bricks, so-called “green” steel (made from recycled steel), “green” concrete (a particular mix with a high percentage of potash) and a sedum roof garden. Primarily a music venue, the Morse will present live jazz, blues, bluegrass, r&b, gospel and world music. The Morse also hopes to offer weekend theater for family audiences and is talking with nearby Lifeline Theatre about using the Morse for Lifeline’s well-established children’s theater program.

When It All Goes Right: A Perfect Night at the Theater By Lawrence Bommer Murphy’s Law–it’s a prescription for professional pessimists. They expect everything to go wrong. Anything to the contrary would, well, break the law. But what about a night at the theater where everything clicks? This would be the El Dorado, Shangri-La and Promised Land of imaginary theatrical events. And, yes, it can happen. Happily, it can also be imagined into existence. Assuming that the thought is father to the fact, let’s indulge in a five-star fantasy about the perfect place, play, production, and public for an unforgettable evening of impeccable drama.

The Journeymen now are the resident theater troupe at the Chicago Park District’s Berger Park (6215 N. Sheridan Road on the lakefront), with their first production, the musical TICK, TICK… BOOM!, which ran through Aug. 16. The award-winning but previously-itinerant Journeymen have converted the old Berger Mansion into a fully-equipped legitimate theater space.

Berger Mansion

Up until now, the coach house and the Berger Mansion have been used for theatrical performances only on a temporary basis. The box office for the new venue is in the Dawghaus Cafe, directly next door to the Coach House. Through September, The Journeymen will present free weekend musical concerts on the restaurant’s patio.

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Chicago a cappella's gala fundraiser "The Black and Red Ball" was a sophisticated evening of music and celebration, highlighted by performances by Chicago a cappella, a silent auction and raffle, dinner and dessert. The event was held at Chicago’s famed Park West on May 22.

1) Artistic Director Jonathan Miller looks on as Friend of the Year Award recipient Camille Wilson White accepts her award.

2) Tribute Award honoree Duain Wolfe, Director of the Chicago Symphony Chorus, accepts his award. 3) Chicago a cappella, left to right: Amy Conn (soprano), Susan Schober (mezzo), Harold Brock (tenor), Elizabeth Grizzell (mezzo), Aaron Johnson (baritone). Photo by Dan Rest

The afternoon’s steady rain gave way to a glorious evening as 175 friends gathered to toast Chicago Dramatists’ playwrights and its 29th season of nurturing and producing new work for the American theatre. Old friends and new mingled in the gardens of Galleria Marchetti and after dining in the pavilion, enjoyed a stunning performance by the gracious, charming and amazingly talented Ann Hampton Callaway. Thank you to all who attended our gala!

4) Mary McDonald, Bruce Tranen, Daniel Pascale, and Jan Tranen enjoy the pre-event cocktail party at Galleria Marchetti. 5) Gala Chair Paul Lillios and Sanford Schulert.

6) Ann Hampton Calloway wows the crowd at the Blue Moon Ball. 7) Managing Director Brian Loevner and Director of Youth and Community Programming Ilesa Duncan introduce the evenings festivities.

Student work: Somiko Harrington/FD; Giedre Vaicekauskaite/FD; Kristina Zmaic/FD

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