Black Creativity: Powerful African-Americans In Energy
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: Learn about different sources of energy—how they work and the impact each has—as you play a highly interactive game of miniature golf. Play your way through the energy landscape of choices like oil, natural gas, wind, solar, hydroelectric and nuclear power. Just as golfers keep score, you keep a running tally of what you've learned at each hole. The final hole is your chance to "putt the vote" and have your say on the best choice for our energy future.
And speaking of the future, this Black Creativity… Price: Adults/Children, $15/10; Chicago Adults/Children, $13/9. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 25 - April 15, 2012.
Thursday, February 9, 2012, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM.
Museum of Science and Industry
5700 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 684-1414.
For more info visit www.msichicago.org. MCA Screen: David Hartt's "Stray Light"
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: David Hartt’s project Stray Light inaugurates a new series of media-based exhibitions at the MCA called MCA Screen. Hartt, a Chicago-based Canadian artist, has been working with photographs for many years, attracted to the social, cultural, political, and economic complexities of the subjects he captures, rendering them with a cool, dispassionate eye. Stray Light includes a film displayed in a room carpeted in the style of his subject, the Johnson Publishing Company building in Chicago, as well as a group… Price: $12; Children 12 and Under, Free! Other Times To-Do It: November 26, 2011 - April 29, 2012. Image Credit: David Hartt. Lounge, 2011.
Thursday, February 9, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 East Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 280-2660.
For more info visit mcachicago.org. Spread the Word! The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: This exhibition developed by The DuSable Museum celebrates the rich history and contributions to Gospel Music and is centered primarily on gospel’s Chicago origins. With Chicago being the “home” of Gospel, Spread the Word!: The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World, recognizes some of the greatest Gospel singers of all time, included are legends such as: Mahalia Jackson, Albertina Walker, Thomas Dorsey, James Cleveland, Sallie Martin and many others. Legendary Chicago choirs, such as Reverend Milton… Price: $10; Students & Seniors, $7; Children 6-11, $3; Children Under 5, Free! Other Times To-Do It: September 20, 2011 - May 20, 2012.
Thursday, February 9, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
DuSable Museum
740 East 56th Place
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 947-0600.
For more info visit www.dusablemuseum.org. Bayard Rustin at 100: Rediscovering a Forgotten Hero
Film
Time: Reception at 5:30 p.m.; Program at 6:30 p.m.
To-Do!: Brother Outsider
Bayard Rustin (1912–87) was instrumental in bringing Gandhi’s protest techniques from India to America in the 1940s, a mentor to Martin Luther King Jr. and an organizer of the seminal 1963 March on Washington. Despite his achievements, Rustin was expunged from history—largely because he dared to be an openly gay man during a fiercely homophobic era.
Join Chicago Urban League president and CEO Andrea L. Zopp, filmmaker Bennett Singer and Rustin’s life partner Walter Naegle for a conver… Soleil's Take: View more Honoring Our Past dates! Miscellaneous Info: HONORING OUR PAST AND EMPOWERING OUR FUTURE FILM FESTIVAL
The Chicago Urban League celebrates Black History Month by presenting a series of documentaries that will educate, empower and inspire. The series includes a tribute to the life and legacy of an unsung hero of the Civil Rights Movement, an intimate portrait of five Chicago teens, and the moving story of community activists who tackle violence head-on. The films and conversations that follow the screenings will give audiences an opportunity to honor… Price: $12. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: February 7, 9, 23 and 27, 2012.
Thursday, February 9, 2012, 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
Chicago History Museum
1601 N. Clark Street
Chicago, IL 60614.
For more info visit www.thechicagourbanleague.org. DreamKeepers 2012 Awards Gala
Benefit/Charitable
To-Do!: 6pm: Cocktails and Silent Auction
7pm: Dinner and Live Auction
Special Honoree - Rick Frazier, VP of Commercial Product Supply Coca-Cola. Miscellaneous Info: About LINK Unlimited
Founded in 1966, LINK Unlimited is Chicago’s highest performing and most experienced African American scholarship and mentoring program. LINK Unlimited provides educational college preparatory opportunities for Economically disadvantaged African American high school youth. LINK integrates mentoring relationships, college readiness and leadership development. The program makes it possible for students to attend highly competitive private high schools in the metropolitan area, and prov… Dress Code: Business Attire. Price: $300.
Thursday, February 9, 2012, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
The Fairmont Chicago
200 N Lower Columbus Dr
Chicago, IL 60601.
For more info visit www.linkunlimited.org. nextStep Education Classes: Putting It All Together—The Business Plan!
Educational/Seminars
To-Do!: This is your opportunity to work with a team of coaches who will review the business plan you’ve put together over the previous 14 weeks. You will receive valuable input, suggestions and feedback that will help you tweak your plan for distribution and presentation. Soleil's Take: Classes are now free! View the entire schedule! Miscellaneous Info: nextStep Business Classes provide hands-on learning experiences that assist entrepreneurs in learning how to write a business plan, forecast financial potential, how to conduct market research and take the right steps to start or grow an existing business. Price: Free! Ticket Link: Register Today! (Provide Name, Daytime Phone, Email and Address). Other Times To-Do It: Tuesdays & Thursdays through February 16, 2012.
Thursday, February 9, 2012, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Chicago Urban League
4510 S Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60653.
For more info visit www.thechicagourbanleague.org. Chicago Auto Show - First Look for Charity
Semi-Formal/Black Tie/Gala
To-Do!: First Look for Charity stands as one of Chicago's greatest one-day fundraisers, regularly generating about $2 million for 18 area nonprofits. Held at McCormick Place the evening before the Chicago Auto Show opens its 10-day public run, the benevolent event is anticipated by socialites and car buffs alike.
The tuxedo-mandatory gala affords participants the chance to stroll the show floor amid opulence not present during the public portion of the Chicago Auto Show. Tickets are $250. Guests are treated to c… Soleil's Take: Aaah - the cars, the food, the people! The First Look is a fabulous way to get, well, a first look at the Chicago Auto Show - but don't count on it being your last look! There's a lot to see at the auto show, but kindly, most of the territory that you'll cover will be carpeted. In fact, it takes 133,333 square yards of carpet to cover the floor of the Chicago Auto Show, enough to carpet 571 average American homes. Ladies - can you imagine touring 571 homes? Back-to-back? In stilettos? In other words,… Dress Code: Black Tie Only - Formal Attire is Required for Entry. Price: $250. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Thursday, February 9, 2012, 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM.
McCormick Place
Lakeside Center
2301 S. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.chicagoautoshow.com. Diego Amador Trio
Live Music
To-Do!: Diego Amador is an acclaimed flamenco singer and pianist. Born into a gypsy family in Seville, Spain, he was raised steeped in flamenco tradition. By age 11, he had mastered the guitar and several other musical instruments and was already playing drums in the group Pata Negra.
Chicago Flamenco Festival Opening Reception. Price: $20-30. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Thursday, February 9, 2012, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
Instituto Cervantes of Chicago
31 W. Ohio St.
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 335-1996.
For more info visit chicago.cervantes.es. Afro Latino Live Series
Live Music
Doors open at 5pm.
To-Do!: African Diasporic Music from Latin America. Miscellaneous Info: Rumba Super Club in association with Sound Culture launch what will be the city's only dedicated night to exploring African diasporic music in Latin America right here in Chicago. The cultural and musical influence of Africa on Latin America through colonization and slavery is undeniable. Latin America's most popular forms of music such as Salsa, Rumba, Bomba Plena, Samba, Punta Rock, Cumbia and Son Jarocho have direct African ties and are a mixture of various cultural influences over time. Join us as we c… Price: $12; Advance, $8. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays.
Thursday, February 9, 2012, 7:30 PM – 11:00 PM.
Rumba
351 West Hubbard Street
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 222-1226.
For more info visit www.soundculturechicago.com. Ameriville (Opening Week)
Theater
4pm Saturday Matinee.
To-Do!: by Universes
developed with and directed by Artistic Director Chay Yew
Using Hurricane Katrina as a jumping off point, Ameriville is a highly entertaining performance piece fusing hip-hop, poetry, fl amenco, standup comedy, music and spoken word. Universes weaves this electrifying 90-minute theatrical exploration of race, class, poverty, immigration and political awareness into a great adventure about what it means to be American.
Universes is a New York-based American ensemble company of… Price: $20-50. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 - February 26, 2012.
Thursday, February 9, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Victory Gardens Biograph Theater
2433 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 871-3000.
For more info visit www.victorygardens.org. Black Pearl Sings!
Theater
To-Do!: A powerful new play featuring Northlight favorite E. Faye Butler!
by Frank Higgins
Highlighted by beautiful, a cappella renditions of little known American folk songs, this play tells the Depression-era story of two extraordinary women: a gifted singer stuck in a Texas prison and the Library of Congress song collector who is determined to introduce her silky voice and steely spirit to the world. Price: $25-60. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 13 - February 19, 2012.
Thursday, February 9, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Northlight Theatre
9501 Skokie Boulevard
Skokie, IL 60077
(847) 673-6300.
For more info visit www.northlight.org. Invisible Man
Theater
Slightly over 3 hours, with two intermissions.
To-Do!: “I am an invisible man.” In this world premiere stage production, the first authorized by The Ralph and Fanny Ellison Charitable Trust, a landmark American novel comes to life. Ralph Ellison’s classic story of a young African American’s search for his identity blazes with luminous theatricality and truth. Adapted by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Oren Jacoby, Invisible Man marks the first Chicago appearance by award-winning New York City director Christopher McElroen, a co-founder of the Classical Theatre of… Soleil's Take: Court Theatre did a great job on bringing Ellison's novel to the stage! Check out C. Dixon Freeman's Review! Price: $45-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 12 – February 19, 2012.
Thursday, February 9, 2012, 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM.
Court Theatre
5535 S. Ellis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637
(773) 753-4472.
For more info visit www.courttheatre.org. Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting
Theater
3pm Matinee on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
To-Do!: Written by Ed Schmidt
Directed by J Nicole Brooks
April 9, 1947
Baseball’s Opening Day is one week away, and Branch Rickey, General Manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, will call up Jackie Robinson to break the color-barrier and play as the Major League’s first black ballplayer. If he does, Robinson will face loud and heated opposition from virtually every owner, manager, and player in baseball – and it won’t be a cakewalk with the fans, either. Who will be his allies if he makes the most daring and… Price: $27.50-68. Discounts: $10 Off any Wednesday, Thursday or Friday performance w/ Discount Code "Soleil". Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 4 - February 19, 2012. Venue Info: Discounted parking is available for Lookingglass patrons at both the nearby John Hancock Center and Olympia Centre Self Park (161 E. Chicago Avenue).
Thursday, February 9, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
LookingGlass Theatre
821 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 337-0665.
For more info visit lookingglasstheatre.org. Race
Theater
To-Do!: Race begins as a crime mystery, as two high-profile lawyers—Henry (Geoffrey Owens) who is black, and Jack (Marc Grapey) who is white—are called to defend a wealthy white client Charles (Patrick Clear) who is charged with the rape of an African American woman. The client admits that he was intimate with his accuser but vehemently denies the charges of rape, insisting that the sex was consensual and that he and the woman were in love. As the two lawyers mull over the potential pitfalls in accepting the case—a… Price: $25-89. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 14 - February 19, 2012. Venue Info: Don't be fooled into parking across from the theater on Dearborn! Validated parking is available in the lot on Lake Street, between Clark and Dearborn.
Thursday, February 9, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Goodman Theatre
170 North Dearborn Street
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 443-3800.
For more info visit www.goodmantheatre.org. The Jackie Wilson Story
Theater
To-Do!: The Jackie Wilson Story was first produced in 2000 and was an immediate smash hit. The highly popular national tour was launched in 2002, and culminated at the famous Apollo Theater in New York City, running a record of the most performances of a stage play at this historical New York City landmark. This contagious production chronicles the rise and fall of the admired musician and performer. Slightly different than the original version, the show will still include many of Wilson’s hits such as (Your Love… Price: $55-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: November 18, 2011 – March 18, 2012.
Thursday, February 9, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center
4450 N. Clark Street
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 769-4451.
For more info visit www.blackensembletheater.org. Sweet Home (Opening Week)
Theater
To-Do!: Written By: Keith Josef Adkins
Directed By: Kimberly Crutcher
Strange things are happening in Sweet Home. A once thriving black town, it is now an urban wasteland with a peculiar problem: all the black boys are missing. When Demus, a quirky young genetic engineer, stumbles into Sweet Home seeking refuge, he quickly finds himself tangled in the bizarre mystery. He also must make a choice—become the next missing black boy, or engineer the perfect indestructible black boy and save Sweet Home forever. Price: $21-23. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 – March 11, 2012. Venue Info: Late seating is awkward here, so be on time! www.GreenhouseTheater.org.
Thursday, February 9, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Greenhouse Theater Center
2257 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 404-7336.
For more info visit www.mpaact.org. The Legend of Buster Neal
Theater
To-Do!: By Jackie Alexander
Directed by Kemati J Porter
In “The Legend of Buster Neal,” a fearless civil rights activist reappears 60 years after his supposed death to face his greatest challenge, his great- great grandson, a 16 year old lured by the streets. Price: $30; Thursdays, $20. Other Times To-Do It: January 12 – March 4, 2012.
Thursday, February 9, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
eta Creative Arts Foundation
7558 South South Chicago Avenue
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 752-3955.
For more info visit www.etacreativearts.org. Black Creativity: Powerful African-Americans In Energy
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: Learn about different sources of energy—how they work and the impact each has—as you play a highly interactive game of miniature golf. Play your way through the energy landscape of choices like oil, natural gas, wind, solar, hydroelectric and nuclear power. Just as golfers keep score, you keep a running tally of what you've learned at each hole. The final hole is your chance to "putt the vote" and have your say on the best choice for our energy future.
And speaking of the future, this Black Creativity… Price: Adults/Children, $15/10; Chicago Adults/Children, $13/9. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 25 - April 15, 2012.
Friday, February 10, 2012, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM.
Museum of Science and Industry
5700 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 684-1414.
For more info visit www.msichicago.org. Chicago Auto Show
Fitness/Athletic/Sporting
To-Do!: First staged in 1901, the Chicago Auto Show is the largest auto show in North America. The Chicago Auto Show utilizes more than 1 million square feet of the McCormick Place complex. McCormick Place offers a total of 2.7 million square feet of exhibit halls with an additional 700,000 square feet of meeting room availability. Price: Adults, $11; Seniors and Children 7-12, $7. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: February 10-19, 2012.
Friday, February 10, 2012, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
McCormick Place
Lakeside Center
2301 S. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.chicagoautoshow.com. MCA Screen: David Hartt's "Stray Light"
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: David Hartt’s project Stray Light inaugurates a new series of media-based exhibitions at the MCA called MCA Screen. Hartt, a Chicago-based Canadian artist, has been working with photographs for many years, attracted to the social, cultural, political, and economic complexities of the subjects he captures, rendering them with a cool, dispassionate eye. Stray Light includes a film displayed in a room carpeted in the style of his subject, the Johnson Publishing Company building in Chicago, as well as a group… Price: $12; Children 12 and Under, Free! Other Times To-Do It: November 26, 2011 - April 29, 2012. Image Credit: David Hartt. Lounge, 2011.
Friday, February 10, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 East Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 280-2660.
For more info visit mcachicago.org. Spread the Word! The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: This exhibition developed by The DuSable Museum celebrates the rich history and contributions to Gospel Music and is centered primarily on gospel’s Chicago origins. With Chicago being the “home” of Gospel, Spread the Word!: The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World, recognizes some of the greatest Gospel singers of all time, included are legends such as: Mahalia Jackson, Albertina Walker, Thomas Dorsey, James Cleveland, Sallie Martin and many others. Legendary Chicago choirs, such as Reverend Milton… Price: $10; Students & Seniors, $7; Children 6-11, $3; Children Under 5, Free! Other Times To-Do It: September 20, 2011 - May 20, 2012.
Friday, February 10, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
DuSable Museum
740 East 56th Place
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 947-0600.
For more info visit www.dusablemuseum.org. Chocolate & Champagne Tour
Singles/Relationships
To-Do!: Guests will sample chocolate treats with Champagne themes, as well as glasses of Champagne, and will meet special Visiting Chocolatiers, and will learn the history and fun facts about both chocolate and Champagne. This tour sells out every year! Soleil's Take: If you don't make it in time to join this tour, there are other tours available on the Chicago Chocolate Tours website at about $40-120 per person! Miscellaneous Info: Participating stores at this time include:
* Teuscher Chocolates*
* More Cupcakes
* Candyality
* Visiting Chocolatier Chocolate Buddha
* Grand finale to be announced
Stores are subject to change. Price: $50. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Friday, February 10, 2012, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM.
900 North Michigan
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.chicagochocolatetours.com. 2nd Friday Gallery Walk Around
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: The Chicago Arts District hosts "2nd FRIDAYS Gallery Night" the monthly opening receptions at the galleries and artists' studios centered around South Halsted and 18th Streets in Chicago. The receptions begin at 6:00pm and run until 10:00pm.
Join the 30 creative spaces in the Chicago Arts District at South Halsted and 18th Streets, as they showcase an exciting display of art and artists from Chicago and beyond. This unique art community opens its doors, free of charge, and lets you get up close and pers… Soleil's Take: This To-Do is definitely worth checking out - I thoroughly enjoyed it! In addition to a wide range of art and medium, you'll find different vibes goin' on at the many, varied galleries - but there's some sort of party at every stop. You may find a special deal on the application of eyelash extensions, accessories, provocative clothing, a DJ rockin' old school beats so hard that the art clings to the walls for dear life, or perhaps a quiet, ambient vibe. There's something for everyone, so expect to see a gre… Miscellaneous Info: The Chicago Arts District hosts "2nd Fridays" the monthly opening receptions at the galleries and artists’ studios centered around South Halsted and 18th Streets.
Maps of the event will be available in the information booth at 1821 South Halsted and in each of the participating galleries. Price: Free! Other Times To-Do It: 2nd Fridays.
Friday, February 10, 2012, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
1821 South Halsted
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.chicagoartsdistrict.org. Legendary Songstress: A Tribute to Vesta Williams
Singles/Relationships
To-Do!: Featuring Angela Winbush, Regina Belle, Shirley Murdock and Miki Howard. Price: $45-60. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Venue Info: http://www.uicforum.uic.edu.
Friday, February 10, 2012, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
UIC Forum
725 W Roosevelt Rd
Chicago, IL 60607.
For more info visit www.dacitientertainment.com. Odyssey Valentine's Dinner & Cruise
Singles/Relationships
To-Do!: ROMANTIC.
Nothing's more magnificent than a Valentine's Day Weekend celebration on the water aboard Chicago's most luxurious cruising vessel, Odyssey. Distinctive cuisine. Live entertainment. Dancing cheek to cheek. Breathtaking views. Laughter and intimate conversation. Create a memory that will last as long as your love. Miscellaneous Info: FIRST COURSE
Lola Rosa and Greens Duo of Field Greens over Concase of Tomato, sprinkled with Cinnamon-Caramelized Pecans, Imported Goat Cheese and Clementine Orange Vinaigrette
SECOND COURSE
Crab and Corn Chowder Blue Crab and Sweet Baby Corn, slowly simmered in a Chardonnay Light Cream
THIRD COURSE
Prime Rib and Prawns Grilled Choice Rib Eye Steak and Jumbo Lemon Herb Prawns accompanied with Roasted Asparagus, Au Gratin Potato Torte and Baby Carrots
DESSERT
Elegant Sweets Table and Odyssey’s… Price: $90 and up. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Friday, February 10, 2012, 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM.
Navy Pier
600 E. Grand Avenue
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.odysseycruises.com. Diego Amador Trio
Live Music
To-Do!: Diego Amador is an acclaimed flamenco singer and pianist. Born into a gypsy family in Seville, Spain, he was raised steeped in flamenco tradition. By age 11, he had mastered the guitar and several other musical instruments and was already playing drums in the group Pata Negra. Price: $20-30. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Friday, February 10, 2012, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
Instituto Cervantes of Chicago
31 W. Ohio St.
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 335-1996.
For more info visit chicago.cervantes.es. Cocktails & Clay
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: Looking for something different [To-Do] on a Friday night? Get your hands dirty in the Ceramics Studio, enjoy drink specials from the cash bar, explore the exhibitions and dance all night in the Main Gallery. Soleil's Take: What a cute idea!!! And how cool that they're keeping the gallery open 'til midnight - you gotta check this one out! Specialty cocktails by Chant in Hyde Park. Miscellaneous Info: All art supplies are included and proceeds benefit HPAC programming. Bring your friends! Price: Free! (Donations Suggested). Other Times To-Do It: Second Fridays.
Friday, February 10, 2012, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Hyde Park Art Center
5020 S. Cornell Avenue
Chicago, IL 60615
(773) 324-5520.
For more info visit www.hydeparkart.org. Ameriville (Opening Week)
Theater
4pm Saturday Matinee.
To-Do!: by Universes
developed with and directed by Artistic Director Chay Yew
Using Hurricane Katrina as a jumping off point, Ameriville is a highly entertaining performance piece fusing hip-hop, poetry, fl amenco, standup comedy, music and spoken word. Universes weaves this electrifying 90-minute theatrical exploration of race, class, poverty, immigration and political awareness into a great adventure about what it means to be American.
Universes is a New York-based American ensemble company of… Price: $20-50. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 - February 26, 2012.
Friday, February 10, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Victory Gardens Biograph Theater
2433 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 871-3000.
For more info visit www.victorygardens.org. Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting
Theater
3pm Matinee on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
To-Do!: Written by Ed Schmidt
Directed by J Nicole Brooks
April 9, 1947
Baseball’s Opening Day is one week away, and Branch Rickey, General Manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, will call up Jackie Robinson to break the color-barrier and play as the Major League’s first black ballplayer. If he does, Robinson will face loud and heated opposition from virtually every owner, manager, and player in baseball – and it won’t be a cakewalk with the fans, either. Who will be his allies if he makes the most daring and… Price: $27.50-68. Discounts: $10 Off any Wednesday, Thursday or Friday performance w/ Discount Code "Soleil". Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 4 - February 19, 2012. Venue Info: Discounted parking is available for Lookingglass patrons at both the nearby John Hancock Center and Olympia Centre Self Park (161 E. Chicago Avenue).
Friday, February 10, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
LookingGlass Theatre
821 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 337-0665.
For more info visit lookingglasstheatre.org. A Lesson Before Dying
Theater
2pm Saturday matinee.
To-Do!: Bayonne, Louisiana, 1948 – Jefferson is a young black man sentenced to die for a crime he did not commit. Grant Wiggins is a local black teacher indebted to those who sent him to college. When Wiggins is enlisted to teach Jefferson to face his death with dignity, both men must re-examine what it means to be a human being. Based on the novel by Ernest J. Gaines.
A 1996 article in the New York Times described Romulus Linney as “America’s bravest playwright” because of the ambitious scope of his work, which… Miscellaneous Info: On February 18th at 2pm, see A Lesson Before Dying and enjoy A Taste of New Orleans Buffet at the post-matinee fundraiser. Price: $15; 2/18 Fundraiser, $50. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: February 3 - February 25, 2012. Venue Info: Click here for important parking information.
Friday, February 10, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Lincoln Square Theatre
4754 N. Leavitt Street
Chicago, Il 60625.
For more info visit lincolnsquaretheatre.org. Black Pearl Sings!
Theater
To-Do!: A powerful new play featuring Northlight favorite E. Faye Butler!
by Frank Higgins
Highlighted by beautiful, a cappella renditions of little known American folk songs, this play tells the Depression-era story of two extraordinary women: a gifted singer stuck in a Texas prison and the Library of Congress song collector who is determined to introduce her silky voice and steely spirit to the world. Price: $25-60. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 13 - February 19, 2012.
Friday, February 10, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Northlight Theatre
9501 Skokie Boulevard
Skokie, IL 60077
(847) 673-6300.
For more info visit www.northlight.org. Sweet Home (Opening Week)
Theater
To-Do!: Written By: Keith Josef Adkins
Directed By: Kimberly Crutcher
Strange things are happening in Sweet Home. A once thriving black town, it is now an urban wasteland with a peculiar problem: all the black boys are missing. When Demus, a quirky young genetic engineer, stumbles into Sweet Home seeking refuge, he quickly finds himself tangled in the bizarre mystery. He also must make a choice—become the next missing black boy, or engineer the perfect indestructible black boy and save Sweet Home forever. Price: $21-23. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 – March 11, 2012. Venue Info: Late seating is awkward here, so be on time! www.GreenhouseTheater.org.
Friday, February 10, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Greenhouse Theater Center
2257 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 404-7336.
For more info visit www.mpaact.org. Invisible Man
Theater
Slightly over 3 hours, with two intermissions.
To-Do!: “I am an invisible man.” In this world premiere stage production, the first authorized by The Ralph and Fanny Ellison Charitable Trust, a landmark American novel comes to life. Ralph Ellison’s classic story of a young African American’s search for his identity blazes with luminous theatricality and truth. Adapted by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Oren Jacoby, Invisible Man marks the first Chicago appearance by award-winning New York City director Christopher McElroen, a co-founder of the Classical Theatre of… Soleil's Take: Court Theatre did a great job on bringing Ellison's novel to the stage! Check out C. Dixon Freeman's Review! Price: $45-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 12 – February 19, 2012.
Friday, February 10, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:30 PM.
Court Theatre
5535 S. Ellis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637
(773) 753-4472.
For more info visit www.courttheatre.org. Race
Theater
To-Do!: Race begins as a crime mystery, as two high-profile lawyers—Henry (Geoffrey Owens) who is black, and Jack (Marc Grapey) who is white—are called to defend a wealthy white client Charles (Patrick Clear) who is charged with the rape of an African American woman. The client admits that he was intimate with his accuser but vehemently denies the charges of rape, insisting that the sex was consensual and that he and the woman were in love. As the two lawyers mull over the potential pitfalls in accepting the case—a… Price: $25-89. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 14 - February 19, 2012. Venue Info: Don't be fooled into parking across from the theater on Dearborn! Validated parking is available in the lot on Lake Street, between Clark and Dearborn.
Friday, February 10, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Goodman Theatre
170 North Dearborn Street
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 443-3800.
For more info visit www.goodmantheatre.org. The Jackie Wilson Story
Theater
To-Do!: The Jackie Wilson Story was first produced in 2000 and was an immediate smash hit. The highly popular national tour was launched in 2002, and culminated at the famous Apollo Theater in New York City, running a record of the most performances of a stage play at this historical New York City landmark. This contagious production chronicles the rise and fall of the admired musician and performer. Slightly different than the original version, the show will still include many of Wilson’s hits such as (Your Love… Price: $55-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: November 18, 2011 – March 18, 2012.
Friday, February 10, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center
4450 N. Clark Street
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 769-4451.
For more info visit www.blackensembletheater.org. The Legend of Buster Neal
Theater
To-Do!: By Jackie Alexander
Directed by Kemati J Porter
In “The Legend of Buster Neal,” a fearless civil rights activist reappears 60 years after his supposed death to face his greatest challenge, his great- great grandson, a 16 year old lured by the streets. Price: $30; Thursdays, $20. Other Times To-Do It: January 12 – March 4, 2012.
Friday, February 10, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
eta Creative Arts Foundation
7558 South South Chicago Avenue
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 752-3955.
For more info visit www.etacreativearts.org. "The Love Before": A Pre-Valentine Show f/ Discopoet "Khari B"
Singles/Relationships
To-Do!: Intertwine Chicago presents:
"The Love Before" A Pre-Valentine Concert with The Alpha Clef Project
also featuring Live Performances by:
Aniba Hotep & The Sol Collective, Soltre James & ISH
Hosted By:
"The Discopoet" Khari B! Price: $20; Advance, $15. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Friday, February 10, 2012, 8:00 PM – Saturday, February 11, 2012, 12:00 AM.
The Darkroom
2210 W. Chicago Ave
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit thelovebeforeconcert.eventbrite.com. River North Dance Presents: "Love is . . . Celebration"
Singles/Relationships
To-Do!: Indulge yourself and your sweetheart this Valentine's Day! Whether you are sharing this special weekend with your loved one, friends, family or treating yourself to something sweet, you can enjoy it with River North Dance Chicago Immediately following the Saturday, February 10th performance, enjoy a festive post-show party with the RNDC Dancers at the Harris Theater with delicious artisan dessert and drink pairings to make your heart and taste buds soar.
River North Dance Chicago, critically acclaimed… Price: $30-75; Party Tix, $25. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Friday, February 10, 2012, 8:00 PM – 11:30 PM.
Harris Theater for Music and Dance
205 East Randolph Drive
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 334-7777.
For more info visit www.harristheaterchicago.org. Milonga (Global Dance Party): f/ TBD
Live Music
To-Do!: This To-Do will be updated as information becomes available. Choose "Notify me of changes" on the Other Event Action toolbar menu to receive automatic e-mail or mobile text updates about this To-Do! Soleil's Take: See more Milonga dates! Miscellaneous Info: The Global Dance Party is a new Friday series that offers an exciting opportunity for the Old Town School community to experiment with dance styles from around the globe. Each night will feature a dance class at 8:30 PM followed by two hours of dance music by dance bands and DJs. Price: $10. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Venue Info: What a stimulating facility this is! The energy is palpable before you even reach the door. Old Town School offers a very diverse range of performances in a family-friendly environment. Seating in the main theater (the Concert Hall) manages intimacy, despite its large capacity. First floor seating offers both cabaret- and auditorium-style seating. Even in the second floor balcony, you’ll be right in the thick of the action. Food and beverages are available for sale – and can be taken into the theater!…
Friday, February 10, 2012, 8:30 PM – 11:30 PM.
Old Town School of Folk Music
Myron R. Szold Music & Dance Hall
4545 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 728-6000.
For more info visit www.oldtownschool.org. Christian's Quinceañero Banger. vol.2
Party
To-Do!: It's a celebration #%#@&*$, come out as we celebrate the lighter shaded half of Soulphonetics', Christian Vera's 30th birthday with some of Chicago best djs, an international carioca bass queen and an up & coming hip hop crew. Author/Artist/Performer Website: www.soulphonetics.com. Miscellaneous Info: artist: ZUZUKA PODEROSA, Soulphonetics, Sound Culture, dj NewLife, Preston & Joey Purps. Price: $5.
Friday, February 10, 2012, 9:00 PM – Saturday, February 11, 2012, 2:00 AM.
Beauty Bar
1444 W Chicago Ave
Chicago, IL 60642.
Black Creativity: Powerful African-Americans In Energy
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: Learn about different sources of energy—how they work and the impact each has—as you play a highly interactive game of miniature golf. Play your way through the energy landscape of choices like oil, natural gas, wind, solar, hydroelectric and nuclear power. Just as golfers keep score, you keep a running tally of what you've learned at each hole. The final hole is your chance to "putt the vote" and have your say on the best choice for our energy future.
And speaking of the future, this Black Creativity… Price: Adults/Children, $15/10; Chicago Adults/Children, $13/9. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 25 - April 15, 2012.
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM.
Museum of Science and Industry
5700 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 684-1414.
For more info visit www.msichicago.org. Chicago Auto Show
Fitness/Athletic/Sporting
To-Do!: First staged in 1901, the Chicago Auto Show is the largest auto show in North America. The Chicago Auto Show utilizes more than 1 million square feet of the McCormick Place complex. McCormick Place offers a total of 2.7 million square feet of exhibit halls with an additional 700,000 square feet of meeting room availability. Price: Adults, $11; Seniors and Children 7-12, $7. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: February 10-19, 2012.
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
McCormick Place
Lakeside Center
2301 S. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.chicagoautoshow.com. MCA Screen: David Hartt's "Stray Light"
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: David Hartt’s project Stray Light inaugurates a new series of media-based exhibitions at the MCA called MCA Screen. Hartt, a Chicago-based Canadian artist, has been working with photographs for many years, attracted to the social, cultural, political, and economic complexities of the subjects he captures, rendering them with a cool, dispassionate eye. Stray Light includes a film displayed in a room carpeted in the style of his subject, the Johnson Publishing Company building in Chicago, as well as a group… Price: $12; Children 12 and Under, Free! Other Times To-Do It: November 26, 2011 - April 29, 2012. Image Credit: David Hartt. Lounge, 2011.
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 East Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 280-2660.
For more info visit mcachicago.org. Spread the Word! The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: This exhibition developed by The DuSable Museum celebrates the rich history and contributions to Gospel Music and is centered primarily on gospel’s Chicago origins. With Chicago being the “home” of Gospel, Spread the Word!: The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World, recognizes some of the greatest Gospel singers of all time, included are legends such as: Mahalia Jackson, Albertina Walker, Thomas Dorsey, James Cleveland, Sallie Martin and many others. Legendary Chicago choirs, such as Reverend Milton… Price: $10; Students & Seniors, $7; Children 6-11, $3; Children Under 5, Free! Other Times To-Do It: September 20, 2011 - May 20, 2012.
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
DuSable Museum
740 East 56th Place
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 947-0600.
For more info visit www.dusablemuseum.org. From Bean to Bar: The Science, History & Culture of Chocolate
Singles/Relationships
To-Do!: Join us for a tantalizing adventure that will surely have you looking at our favorite tropical treat – chocolate - with fresh eyes and taste buds! Participants will taste their way through the natural and cultural history of the cacao plant, and discover how we get from the fruit of a tropical tree to the tasty treat we all love. Impress your valentine with your new knowledge of chocolate or better yet, sign up together! Soleil's Take: Because nothing says love like chocolate! Miscellaneous Info: Please note that refunds for this class cannot be issued after Friday, January 27th. Price: $20. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM.
Garfield Park Conservatory
300 N Central Park Ave
Chicago, IL 60624.
For more info visit www.garfieldconservatory.org. World Kitchen: From the Heart
Food & Wine
To-Do!: Indulge in decadent dishes and sweet treats, made "From the Heart" and perfect for sharing with friends, family, or your special Valentine! Soleil's Take: These classes sell out quickly, so don't snooze on it! Registration required. View the entire schedule! Miscellaneous Info: Classes begin promptly and preregistration is required. Please wear appropriate clothing and non-skid shoes; bring an apron if desired.
WORLD KITCHEN
Explore Chicago's diverse cultural heritage through ethnic cuisines and focus on culinary skills and techniques in our state-of-the-art World Kitchen facility. World Kitchen offers opportunities to experience the true pleasures of food as nourishment for the body as well as art for the soul. Food industry professionals share their expertise with students… Price: $30. Ticket Link: Register Now! Other Times To-Do It: Varied Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, January 21 - Mar 31, 2012.
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM.
Gallery 37 Center for the Arts
66 E. Randolph St.
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.chicagoworldkitchen.org. Sex, Love & The Second City: A Romantic Dot Comedy
Comedy
To-Do!: From The Second City, the legendary comedy theatre and the creators of the touring hit Sex & The Second City, comes a play about relationships in the age of social networking. There are Plenty of Fish in the sea, but can we all live in eHarmony? Or are our lives too much of an open (Face)book? Find out in this hilarious new show! Suggested rating R.
Lunch available at all matinee performances. Dinner available before and during the evening show.
On February 14th, make your Valentine extra happy by ord… Soleil's Take: It seems like you can get a ticket, salad, a 6" Lou Malnati's pizza and fountain drink for only $33, so be sure to check out the special offers! Price: $35. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM.
Up Comedy Club
230 W. North Ave - 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60614
(312) 662-4562.
For more info visit upcomedyclub.com. Chicago WinterDance: Tangata
Live Music
To-Do!: Dance: Tango
Instructors: American Tango Institute
Live Music: Tangata
Lessons from 5-6pm; Open dancing 6-7:30pm
Nottingham based five piece band Tangata play mostly original tunes with a couple of traditional reels and songs thrown in for good measure.
The music ranges in style from rich jazz injected Celtic melodies, to the odd vocal harmony, through to Baltic frenzy and hefty funk to get people on their feet!
Influences include: Sin é Vasen, Flook, Bellowhead, Chic, Ian Dury, Michael… Soleil's Take: Vastly parsed down from previous years, this will be one of two WinterDance sessions this year. :=( (The other is on February 18th). While you're there, peek in on Luminous Field by Luftwerk - a digital canvas of light and geometrical form! Musically choreographed lights and dramatic images will reflect off The Bean and surrounding buildings. It sounds kinda cool! Miscellaneous Info: Join the party at Jay Pritzker Pavilion and cut a rug. Dancing, live music and dance instruction in a variety of styles! Enjoy one-hour lessons, led by professional dance instructors, before hitting the dance floor with the extraordinary view of the cityscape beyond the retractable glass doors on the enclosed stage of the Pritzker Pavilion. Price: Free!
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Millennium Park, Jay Pritzker Pavilion
201 E. Randolph St.
Chicago, IL 60602.
For more info visit www.explorechicago.org. Swingin' With My Valentine
Live Music
To-Do!: Nytro Jazz presents a Pre-Valentine's Day Concert and Dinner! Featuring vocalist Lakisha Pelham. There will be some Jazz and some R&B! We have a bunch of goodies lined up for ya! IT'S ALL THE WAY LIVE!
All VIPs receive a free gift upon entering (while supplies last). Raffle drawing for cash, sweet treats and more!! Early arrival is suggested as seating is limited! Come be our Valentine! Miscellaneous Info: Dinner is available for purchase. Price: $20.
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Donna's Cafe
1255 S. State
Chicago, IL 60605
(312) 461-1005.
For more info visit www.donnascafechicago.com. Odyssey Valentine's Dinner & Cruise
Singles/Relationships
To-Do!: ROMANTIC.
Nothing's more magnificent than a Valentine's Day Weekend celebration on the water aboard Chicago's most luxurious cruising vessel, Odyssey. Distinctive cuisine. Live entertainment. Dancing cheek to cheek. Breathtaking views. Laughter and intimate conversation. Create a memory that will last as long as your love. Miscellaneous Info: FIRST COURSE
Lola Rosa and Greens Duo of Field Greens over Concase of Tomato, sprinkled with Cinnamon-Caramelized Pecans, Imported Goat Cheese and Clementine Orange Vinaigrette
SECOND COURSE
Crab and Corn Chowder Blue Crab and Sweet Baby Corn, slowly simmered in a Chardonnay Light Cream
THIRD COURSE
Prime Rib and Prawns Grilled Choice Rib Eye Steak and Jumbo Lemon Herb Prawns accompanied with Roasted Asparagus, Au Gratin Potato Torte and Baby Carrots
DESSERT
Elegant Sweets Table and Odyssey’s… Price: $90 and up. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Navy Pier
600 E. Grand Avenue
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.odysseycruises.com. Valentine's Day Couples Cooking Class
Singles/Relationships
To-Do!: Perfect for Valentine's Day: Join Parties That Cook at Charlie Baggs in the Belden Stratford, and get lucky by making a meal that's sure to be both romantic and memorable. You and your partner will heat up the kitchen as you learn cooking techniques, sip prosecco and prepare an array of international gourmet small plates with hands-on instruction. Complimentary prosecco is included.
At this exciting interactive cooking party, guests enjoy a lively introductory cooking demonstration, featuring tips such a… Miscellaneous Info: Feb. 11 Menu
Grilled Shrimp with Cocoa Nib Romesco
Sweet Potato Pancakes with Crispy Prosciutto and Sour Cream
Mini Apple, Roquefort and Caramelized Onion Pies with Honey
Seared Beef Brochettes with Whole Grain Mustard and Garlic Marinade
Chocolate Pretzel Cookies with Mexican Hot Chocolate Dipping Sauce
Parties That Cook designs fresh seasonal menus for each event. Guests do not need cooking experience to attend. The price includes cooking instruction by professional chefs, a complimentary glass of… Price: $95; Couples, $190. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
Charlie Baggs
2300 N. Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.partiesthatcook.com. Ameriville (Opening Week)
Theater
4pm Saturday Matinee.
To-Do!: by Universes
developed with and directed by Artistic Director Chay Yew
Using Hurricane Katrina as a jumping off point, Ameriville is a highly entertaining performance piece fusing hip-hop, poetry, fl amenco, standup comedy, music and spoken word. Universes weaves this electrifying 90-minute theatrical exploration of race, class, poverty, immigration and political awareness into a great adventure about what it means to be American.
Universes is a New York-based American ensemble company of… Price: $20-50. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 - February 26, 2012.
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Victory Gardens Biograph Theater
2433 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 871-3000.
For more info visit www.victorygardens.org. Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting
Theater
3pm Matinee on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
To-Do!: Written by Ed Schmidt
Directed by J Nicole Brooks
April 9, 1947
Baseball’s Opening Day is one week away, and Branch Rickey, General Manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, will call up Jackie Robinson to break the color-barrier and play as the Major League’s first black ballplayer. If he does, Robinson will face loud and heated opposition from virtually every owner, manager, and player in baseball – and it won’t be a cakewalk with the fans, either. Who will be his allies if he makes the most daring and… Price: $27.50-68. Discounts: $10 Off any Wednesday, Thursday or Friday performance w/ Discount Code "Soleil". Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 4 - February 19, 2012. Venue Info: Discounted parking is available for Lookingglass patrons at both the nearby John Hancock Center and Olympia Centre Self Park (161 E. Chicago Avenue).
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
LookingGlass Theatre
821 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 337-0665.
For more info visit lookingglasstheatre.org. A Lesson Before Dying
Theater
2pm Saturday matinee.
To-Do!: Bayonne, Louisiana, 1948 – Jefferson is a young black man sentenced to die for a crime he did not commit. Grant Wiggins is a local black teacher indebted to those who sent him to college. When Wiggins is enlisted to teach Jefferson to face his death with dignity, both men must re-examine what it means to be a human being. Based on the novel by Ernest J. Gaines.
A 1996 article in the New York Times described Romulus Linney as “America’s bravest playwright” because of the ambitious scope of his work, which… Miscellaneous Info: On February 18th at 2pm, see A Lesson Before Dying and enjoy A Taste of New Orleans Buffet at the post-matinee fundraiser. Price: $15; 2/18 Fundraiser, $50. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: February 3 - February 25, 2012. Venue Info: Click here for important parking information.
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Lincoln Square Theatre
4754 N. Leavitt Street
Chicago, Il 60625.
For more info visit lincolnsquaretheatre.org. Black Pearl Sings!
Theater
2:30pm Matinee.
To-Do!: A powerful new play featuring Northlight favorite E. Faye Butler!
by Frank Higgins
Highlighted by beautiful, a cappella renditions of little known American folk songs, this play tells the Depression-era story of two extraordinary women: a gifted singer stuck in a Texas prison and the Library of Congress song collector who is determined to introduce her silky voice and steely spirit to the world. Price: $25-60. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 13 - February 19, 2012.
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Northlight Theatre
9501 Skokie Boulevard
Skokie, IL 60077
(847) 673-6300.
For more info visit www.northlight.org. Sweet Home (Opening Week)
Theater
To-Do!: Written By: Keith Josef Adkins
Directed By: Kimberly Crutcher
Strange things are happening in Sweet Home. A once thriving black town, it is now an urban wasteland with a peculiar problem: all the black boys are missing. When Demus, a quirky young genetic engineer, stumbles into Sweet Home seeking refuge, he quickly finds himself tangled in the bizarre mystery. He also must make a choice—become the next missing black boy, or engineer the perfect indestructible black boy and save Sweet Home forever. Price: $21-23. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 – March 11, 2012. Venue Info: Late seating is awkward here, so be on time! www.GreenhouseTheater.org.
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Greenhouse Theater Center
2257 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 404-7336.
For more info visit www.mpaact.org. Invisible Man
Theater
3pm Matinee.
To-Do!: “I am an invisible man.” In this world premiere stage production, the first authorized by The Ralph and Fanny Ellison Charitable Trust, a landmark American novel comes to life. Ralph Ellison’s classic story of a young African American’s search for his identity blazes with luminous theatricality and truth. Adapted by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Oren Jacoby, Invisible Man marks the first Chicago appearance by award-winning New York City director Christopher McElroen, a co-founder of the Classical Theatre of… Soleil's Take: Court Theatre did a great job on bringing Ellison's novel to the stage! Check out C. Dixon Freeman's Review! Price: $45-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 12 – February 19, 2012.
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:30 PM.
Court Theatre
5535 S. Ellis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637
(773) 753-4472.
For more info visit www.courttheatre.org. Race
Theater
2pm Matinee.
To-Do!: Race begins as a crime mystery, as two high-profile lawyers—Henry (Geoffrey Owens) who is black, and Jack (Marc Grapey) who is white—are called to defend a wealthy white client Charles (Patrick Clear) who is charged with the rape of an African American woman. The client admits that he was intimate with his accuser but vehemently denies the charges of rape, insisting that the sex was consensual and that he and the woman were in love. As the two lawyers mull over the potential pitfalls in accepting the case—a… Price: $25-89. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 14 - February 19, 2012. Venue Info: Don't be fooled into parking across from the theater on Dearborn! Validated parking is available in the lot on Lake Street, between Clark and Dearborn.
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Goodman Theatre
170 North Dearborn Street
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 443-3800.
For more info visit www.goodmantheatre.org. The Jackie Wilson Story
Theater
To-Do!: The Jackie Wilson Story was first produced in 2000 and was an immediate smash hit. The highly popular national tour was launched in 2002, and culminated at the famous Apollo Theater in New York City, running a record of the most performances of a stage play at this historical New York City landmark. This contagious production chronicles the rise and fall of the admired musician and performer. Slightly different than the original version, the show will still include many of Wilson’s hits such as (Your Love… Price: $55-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: November 18, 2011 – March 18, 2012.
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center
4450 N. Clark Street
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 769-4451.
For more info visit www.blackensembletheater.org. The Legend of Buster Neal
Theater
To-Do!: By Jackie Alexander
Directed by Kemati J Porter
In “The Legend of Buster Neal,” a fearless civil rights activist reappears 60 years after his supposed death to face his greatest challenge, his great- great grandson, a 16 year old lured by the streets. Price: $30; Thursdays, $20. Other Times To-Do It: January 12 – March 4, 2012.
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
eta Creative Arts Foundation
7558 South South Chicago Avenue
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 752-3955.
For more info visit www.etacreativearts.org. River North Dance Presents: "Love is . . . "
Singles/Relationships
To-Do!: River North Dance Chicago, critically acclaimed for their athletic, sensual and dynamic repertoire, unveils two world premieres and invites audiences to discover what “Love is . . . ” at the company’s Valentine’s Weekend engagement!
The weekend engagement will feature two world premieres: “Contact-Me” is the first U.S. commission from Mauro Astolfi of Italy’s premiere Spellbound Dance Company and “The Good Goodbyes” is a collaboration between RNDC Artistic Director Frank Chaves and Josephine Lee, the Art… Price: $30-75. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Harris Theater for Music and Dance
205 East Randolph Drive
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 334-7777.
For more info visit www.harristheaterchicago.org. Valentine's Love Affair: The Isley Brothers & Chrisette Michele
Singles/Relationships
To-Do!: Don't miss the legendary Isley Brothers with Grammy award-winning Chrisette Michele at The Chicago Theatre for a Valentine's Love Affair. Soleil's Take: I think this is an extraordinarily odd combo - perfect for a May-December or Cougar relationship! Price: $60-100. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 8:00 PM – Sunday, February 12, 2012, 12:00 AM.
Chicago Theatre
175 N. State Street
Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 462-6300.
For more info visit www.thechicagotheatre.com. Afrodisiac
Party
To-Do!: Eclectic and ticklish mix of African variety including Couper Decaller, Ndombolo, Kwaito, Makossa, Hip Life, Zouk, Kompa, etc.
Our Resident DJ TopDonn on the decks for a great dose of African Grooves.
"Afrodisiac is a monthly club night dedicated to featuring the best in African dance rhythms including: Kwaito, Ndombolo, Makossa, Coupe-Decalle, Zouk and Kompa." Hosted, promoted and produced by the only & so popular Aurelien PV (Studio International). Miscellaneous Info: About AFRODISIAC's Music Selection!
Kwaito:
Kwaito is a music genre that emerged in Johannesburg, South Africa in the early 1990s. It is based on house music beats, but typically at a slower tempo and containing melodic and percussive African samples which are looped, deep basslines and often vocals, generally male, shouted or chanted rather than sung or rapped. More recently, Kwaito artists like Zola have rapped their lyrics in a hip-hop style, while others such as BOP and Oskido have sped up their… Price: Make sure to use the Sinebar entrance for $10 before 11:30pm. Other Times To-Do It: 1st Saturdays. Venue Info: The venue itself is nice (gorgeous restrooms!), although its Chuck E. Cheese-ish stage is a little odd. My biggest issue with The Shrine is that its business practices are geared toward youth who get their “swag” from a very superficial VIP status. [more].
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 9:00 PM – Sunday, February 12, 2012, 3:00 AM.
Shrine
2109 S. Wabash
Chicago, Illinois 60622
(312) 753-5700.
For more info visit www.facebook.com. We Love Soul Celebrates Love & History
Party
To-Do!: We Love Soul Presents
"Soulful 2nd Saturdays"
Join Us In February as We Celebrate Love & Black History
Providing the Soundtrack of Love, Soul, and History are DJs
Duane Powell
Joe Kollege
Kwest_on
Sean Alvarez
$5 before 11pm with RSVP to WeLoveSoul@gmail.com
Lounge 52 (Park 52)
5201 S. Harper Ave in Hyde Park
Soulful 2nd Saturdays takes place the 2nd Saturday of each month.
www.WeLoveSoul.net. Dress Code: Casual Chic. Price: $10. Discounts: $5 before 11pm w/RSVP to WeLoveSoul@gmail.com.
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 10:00 PM – Sunday, February 12, 2012, 2:00 AM.
Lounge 52
5201 S Harper Ave
Chicago, IL 60615.
For more info visit www.welovesoul.net. Black Creativity: Powerful African-Americans In Energy
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: Learn about different sources of energy—how they work and the impact each has—as you play a highly interactive game of miniature golf. Play your way through the energy landscape of choices like oil, natural gas, wind, solar, hydroelectric and nuclear power. Just as golfers keep score, you keep a running tally of what you've learned at each hole. The final hole is your chance to "putt the vote" and have your say on the best choice for our energy future.
And speaking of the future, this Black Creativity… Price: Adults/Children, $15/10; Chicago Adults/Children, $13/9. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 25 - April 15, 2012.
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM.
Museum of Science and Industry
5700 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 684-1414.
For more info visit www.msichicago.org. Chicago Auto Show
Fitness/Athletic/Sporting
To-Do!: First staged in 1901, the Chicago Auto Show is the largest auto show in North America. The Chicago Auto Show utilizes more than 1 million square feet of the McCormick Place complex. McCormick Place offers a total of 2.7 million square feet of exhibit halls with an additional 700,000 square feet of meeting room availability. Price: Adults, $11; Seniors and Children 7-12, $7. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: February 10-19, 2012.
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
McCormick Place
Lakeside Center
2301 S. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.chicagoautoshow.com. MCA Screen: David Hartt's "Stray Light"
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: David Hartt’s project Stray Light inaugurates a new series of media-based exhibitions at the MCA called MCA Screen. Hartt, a Chicago-based Canadian artist, has been working with photographs for many years, attracted to the social, cultural, political, and economic complexities of the subjects he captures, rendering them with a cool, dispassionate eye. Stray Light includes a film displayed in a room carpeted in the style of his subject, the Johnson Publishing Company building in Chicago, as well as a group… Price: $12; Children 12 and Under, Free! Other Times To-Do It: November 26, 2011 - April 29, 2012. Image Credit: David Hartt. Lounge, 2011.
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 East Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 280-2660.
For more info visit mcachicago.org. Spread the Word! The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: This exhibition developed by The DuSable Museum celebrates the rich history and contributions to Gospel Music and is centered primarily on gospel’s Chicago origins. With Chicago being the “home” of Gospel, Spread the Word!: The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World, recognizes some of the greatest Gospel singers of all time, included are legends such as: Mahalia Jackson, Albertina Walker, Thomas Dorsey, James Cleveland, Sallie Martin and many others. Legendary Chicago choirs, such as Reverend Milton… Price: $10; Students & Seniors, $7; Children 6-11, $3; Children Under 5, Free! Other Times To-Do It: September 20, 2011 - May 20, 2012.
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
DuSable Museum
740 East 56th Place
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 947-0600.
For more info visit www.dusablemuseum.org. SankofaSpirit Movies with a Mission: TBD
Film
To-Do!: This To-Do will be updated as information becomes available. Choose "Notify me of changes" on the Other Event Actions pulldown menu to receive automatic e-mail or mobile text updates about this To-Do! Miscellaneous Info: SankofaSpirit Movies with a Mission are free monthly films from and about Africa and the African Diaspora that seek to inform and inspire dialogue every 2nd Sunday. SankofaSpirit is a 501(c) 3 organization dedicated to providing cultural and educational programs and services that focus on Africa and the African Diaspora. Through its program and services, SankofaSpirit encourages people of African descent to reclaim their glorious past, rekindle their inner spirit and reconnect with their great legacy. Price: Free! Other Times To-Do It: Second Sundays.
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
DuSable Museum
740 East 56th Place
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 947-0600.
For more info visit www.dusablemuseum.org. Tony Lindsay Book Release: One Dead Doctor
Author/Artist Event
To-Do!: Tony Lindsay Discussion & Autograph Sessions
This free event is open to the public,so come out and enjoy complimentary drinks, food, music and vendors. For more information on the Book Release Party, please contact Davis Elegant Events at Linda@DavisElegantEvents.com. Price: Free!
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
J. Bistro
9836 South Western
Chicago, IL.
For more info visit www.daviselegantevents.com. Race
Theater
To-Do!: Race begins as a crime mystery, as two high-profile lawyers—Henry (Geoffrey Owens) who is black, and Jack (Marc Grapey) who is white—are called to defend a wealthy white client Charles (Patrick Clear) who is charged with the rape of an African American woman. The client admits that he was intimate with his accuser but vehemently denies the charges of rape, insisting that the sex was consensual and that he and the woman were in love. As the two lawyers mull over the potential pitfalls in accepting the case—a… Price: $25-89. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 14 - February 19, 2012. Venue Info: Don't be fooled into parking across from the theater on Dearborn! Validated parking is available in the lot on Lake Street, between Clark and Dearborn.
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
Goodman Theatre
170 North Dearborn Street
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 443-3800.
For more info visit www.goodmantheatre.org. Ameriville (Opening Week)
Theater
4pm Saturday Matinee.
To-Do!: by Universes
developed with and directed by Artistic Director Chay Yew
Using Hurricane Katrina as a jumping off point, Ameriville is a highly entertaining performance piece fusing hip-hop, poetry, fl amenco, standup comedy, music and spoken word. Universes weaves this electrifying 90-minute theatrical exploration of race, class, poverty, immigration and political awareness into a great adventure about what it means to be American.
Universes is a New York-based American ensemble company of… Price: $20-50. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 - February 26, 2012.
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Victory Gardens Biograph Theater
2433 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 871-3000.
For more info visit www.victorygardens.org. Sweet Home (Opening Week)
Theater
To-Do!: Written By: Keith Josef Adkins
Directed By: Kimberly Crutcher
Strange things are happening in Sweet Home. A once thriving black town, it is now an urban wasteland with a peculiar problem: all the black boys are missing. When Demus, a quirky young genetic engineer, stumbles into Sweet Home seeking refuge, he quickly finds himself tangled in the bizarre mystery. He also must make a choice—become the next missing black boy, or engineer the perfect indestructible black boy and save Sweet Home forever. Price: $21-23. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 – March 11, 2012. Venue Info: Late seating is awkward here, so be on time! www.GreenhouseTheater.org.
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Greenhouse Theater Center
2257 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 404-7336.
For more info visit www.mpaact.org. The Jackie Wilson Story
Theater
To-Do!: The Jackie Wilson Story was first produced in 2000 and was an immediate smash hit. The highly popular national tour was launched in 2002, and culminated at the famous Apollo Theater in New York City, running a record of the most performances of a stage play at this historical New York City landmark. This contagious production chronicles the rise and fall of the admired musician and performer. Slightly different than the original version, the show will still include many of Wilson’s hits such as (Your Love… Price: $55-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: November 18, 2011 – March 18, 2012.
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center
4450 N. Clark Street
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 769-4451.
For more info visit www.blackensembletheater.org. River North Dance Presents: "Love is . . . "
Singles/Relationships
To-Do!: River North Dance Chicago, critically acclaimed for their athletic, sensual and dynamic repertoire, unveils two world premieres and invites audiences to discover what “Love is . . . ” at the company’s Valentine’s Weekend engagement!
The weekend engagement will feature two world premieres: “Contact-Me” is the first U.S. commission from Mauro Astolfi of Italy’s premiere Spellbound Dance Company and “The Good Goodbyes” is a collaboration between RNDC Artistic Director Frank Chaves and Josephine Lee, the Art… Price: $30-75. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Harris Theater for Music and Dance
205 East Randolph Drive
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 334-7777.
For more info visit www.harristheaterchicago.org. Sex, Love & The Second City: A Romantic Dot Comedy
Comedy
To-Do!: From The Second City, the legendary comedy theatre and the creators of the touring hit Sex & The Second City, comes a play about relationships in the age of social networking. There are Plenty of Fish in the sea, but can we all live in eHarmony? Or are our lives too much of an open (Face)book? Find out in this hilarious new show! Suggested rating R.
Lunch available at all matinee performances. Dinner available before and during the evening show.
On February 14th, make your Valentine extra happy by ord… Soleil's Take: It seems like you can get a ticket, salad, a 6" Lou Malnati's pizza and fountain drink for only $33, so be sure to check out the special offers! Price: $35. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM.
Up Comedy Club
230 W. North Ave - 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60614
(312) 662-4562.
For more info visit upcomedyclub.com. Baseball Music: The Sweetest Sound (Opening Night)
Theater
To-Do!: Written By Sati Word
Directed By Marie Cisco
Buck O’Neil was a true ambassador of baseball. An athletic, soft handed first baseman and longtime manager of the Kansas City Monarchs, a talented scout eying young stars from Billy Williams, Oscar Gamble and Ernie Banks for the Chicago Cubs to Bo Jackson for the Kansas City Royals and the Major League’s first black coach. As the driving force behind the Negro League Hall of Fame on the corner of 18th and Vine in Kansas City, Buck O’Neil was the last to tell… Price: $12. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: Sundays, February 12 – March 4, 2012. Venue Info: Late seating is awkward here, so be on time! www.GreenhouseTheater.org.
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Greenhouse Theater Center
2257 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 404-7336.
For more info visit www.mpaact.org. Black Pearl Sings!
Theater
2:30pm Matinee.
To-Do!: A powerful new play featuring Northlight favorite E. Faye Butler!
by Frank Higgins
Highlighted by beautiful, a cappella renditions of little known American folk songs, this play tells the Depression-era story of two extraordinary women: a gifted singer stuck in a Texas prison and the Library of Congress song collector who is determined to introduce her silky voice and steely spirit to the world. Price: $25-60. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 13 - February 19, 2012.
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
Northlight Theatre
9501 Skokie Boulevard
Skokie, IL 60077
(847) 673-6300.
For more info visit www.northlight.org. Sunday Jazz, f/ Dee Alexander Birthday Celebration
Live Music
To-Do!: Dee Alexander is one of Chicago’s most gifted and respected female vocalist/songwriters. Her talents span every music genre, from Gospel to R&B, from Blues to Neo-Soul. Yet her true heart and soul are experienced in their purest form through her performance of Jazz music. From a soft, sultry traditional ballad, to a contemporary Jazz-Funk groove; from a high flying swing, to a scat-filled romp, Dee Alexander delivers each style with a passion and love of music that comes across in each and every note, and w… Miscellaneous Info: Founded by James W. Wagner, the Hyde Park Jazz Society is committed to the encouragement, promotion, and expansion of jazz performance in the greater Hyde Park community and mid-south side, as well as to the education of young jazz musicians and expansion of the jazz listening audience. Price: $10; Students, $5. Other Times To-Do It: Sundays - View the entire schedule!
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 7:30 PM – 11:30 PM.
Room 43
1043 E 43rd St
Chicago, IL 60653-3034.
For more info visit www.hydeparkjazzsociety.com. Invisible Man
Theater
2:30pm Matinee.
To-Do!: “I am an invisible man.” In this world premiere stage production, the first authorized by The Ralph and Fanny Ellison Charitable Trust, a landmark American novel comes to life. Ralph Ellison’s classic story of a young African American’s search for his identity blazes with luminous theatricality and truth. Adapted by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Oren Jacoby, Invisible Man marks the first Chicago appearance by award-winning New York City director Christopher McElroen, a co-founder of the Classical Theatre of… Soleil's Take: Court Theatre did a great job on bringing Ellison's novel to the stage! Check out C. Dixon Freeman's Review! Price: $45-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 12 – February 19, 2012.
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM.
Court Theatre
5535 S. Ellis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637
(773) 753-4472.
For more info visit www.courttheatre.org. Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting
Theater
3pm Matinee on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
To-Do!: Written by Ed Schmidt
Directed by J Nicole Brooks
April 9, 1947
Baseball’s Opening Day is one week away, and Branch Rickey, General Manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, will call up Jackie Robinson to break the color-barrier and play as the Major League’s first black ballplayer. If he does, Robinson will face loud and heated opposition from virtually every owner, manager, and player in baseball – and it won’t be a cakewalk with the fans, either. Who will be his allies if he makes the most daring and… Price: $27.50-68. Discounts: $10 Off any Wednesday, Thursday or Friday performance w/ Discount Code "Soleil". Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 4 - February 19, 2012. Venue Info: Discounted parking is available for Lookingglass patrons at both the nearby John Hancock Center and Olympia Centre Self Park (161 E. Chicago Avenue).
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
LookingGlass Theatre
821 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 337-0665.
For more info visit lookingglasstheatre.org. The Legend of Buster Neal
Theater
To-Do!: By Jackie Alexander
Directed by Kemati J Porter
In “The Legend of Buster Neal,” a fearless civil rights activist reappears 60 years after his supposed death to face his greatest challenge, his great- great grandson, a 16 year old lured by the streets. Price: $30; Thursdays, $20. Other Times To-Do It: January 12 – March 4, 2012.
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
eta Creative Arts Foundation
7558 South South Chicago Avenue
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 752-3955.
For more info visit www.etacreativearts.org. Black Creativity: Powerful African-Americans In Energy
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: Learn about different sources of energy—how they work and the impact each has—as you play a highly interactive game of miniature golf. Play your way through the energy landscape of choices like oil, natural gas, wind, solar, hydroelectric and nuclear power. Just as golfers keep score, you keep a running tally of what you've learned at each hole. The final hole is your chance to "putt the vote" and have your say on the best choice for our energy future.
And speaking of the future, this Black Creativity… Price: Adults/Children, $15/10; Chicago Adults/Children, $13/9. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 25 - April 15, 2012.
Monday, February 13, 2012, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM.
Museum of Science and Industry
5700 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 684-1414.
For more info visit www.msichicago.org. Chicago Auto Show
Fitness/Athletic/Sporting
To-Do!: First staged in 1901, the Chicago Auto Show is the largest auto show in North America. The Chicago Auto Show utilizes more than 1 million square feet of the McCormick Place complex. McCormick Place offers a total of 2.7 million square feet of exhibit halls with an additional 700,000 square feet of meeting room availability. Price: Adults, $11; Seniors and Children 7-12, $7. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: February 10-19, 2012.
Monday, February 13, 2012, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
McCormick Place
Lakeside Center
2301 S. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.chicagoautoshow.com. Music Mondays: TBD
Live Music
To-Do!: This To-Do will be updated as information becomes available. Choose "Notify me of changes" on the Other Event Action toolbar menu below to receive automatic e-mail or mobile text updates about this To-Do! Soleil's Take: I haven't been able To-Do this one yet, so I'd love to have Your Take! Please e-mail me at YourTake@SoleilsToDos.com. Miscellaneous Info: Great Black Music in an intimate cabaret setting
Hosted by Joan Collaso and WVON Radio personality Cliff Kelley.
Light fare available. Price: $10. Other Times To-Do It: Second Monday of each month.
Monday, February 13, 2012, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
eta Creative Arts Foundation
7558 South South Chicago Avenue
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 752-3955.
For more info visit www.etacreativearts.org. Black Creativity: Powerful African-Americans In Energy
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: Learn about different sources of energy—how they work and the impact each has—as you play a highly interactive game of miniature golf. Play your way through the energy landscape of choices like oil, natural gas, wind, solar, hydroelectric and nuclear power. Just as golfers keep score, you keep a running tally of what you've learned at each hole. The final hole is your chance to "putt the vote" and have your say on the best choice for our energy future.
And speaking of the future, this Black Creativity… Price: Adults/Children, $15/10; Chicago Adults/Children, $13/9. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 25 - April 15, 2012.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM.
Museum of Science and Industry
5700 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 684-1414.
For more info visit www.msichicago.org. Chicago Auto Show
Fitness/Athletic/Sporting
To-Do!: First staged in 1901, the Chicago Auto Show is the largest auto show in North America. The Chicago Auto Show utilizes more than 1 million square feet of the McCormick Place complex. McCormick Place offers a total of 2.7 million square feet of exhibit halls with an additional 700,000 square feet of meeting room availability. Price: Adults, $11; Seniors and Children 7-12, $7. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: February 10-19, 2012.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
McCormick Place
Lakeside Center
2301 S. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.chicagoautoshow.com. MCA Screen: David Hartt's "Stray Light"
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: David Hartt’s project Stray Light inaugurates a new series of media-based exhibitions at the MCA called MCA Screen. Hartt, a Chicago-based Canadian artist, has been working with photographs for many years, attracted to the social, cultural, political, and economic complexities of the subjects he captures, rendering them with a cool, dispassionate eye. Stray Light includes a film displayed in a room carpeted in the style of his subject, the Johnson Publishing Company building in Chicago, as well as a group… Price: Free! Other Times To-Do It: November 26, 2011 - April 29, 2012. Image Credit: David Hartt. Lounge, 2011.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 East Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 280-2660.
For more info visit mcachicago.org. Spread the Word! The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: This exhibition developed by The DuSable Museum celebrates the rich history and contributions to Gospel Music and is centered primarily on gospel’s Chicago origins. With Chicago being the “home” of Gospel, Spread the Word!: The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World, recognizes some of the greatest Gospel singers of all time, included are legends such as: Mahalia Jackson, Albertina Walker, Thomas Dorsey, James Cleveland, Sallie Martin and many others. Legendary Chicago choirs, such as Reverend Milton… Price: $10; Students & Seniors, $7; Children 6-11, $3; Children Under 5, Free! Other Times To-Do It: September 20, 2011 - May 20, 2012.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
DuSable Museum
740 East 56th Place
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 947-0600.
For more info visit www.dusablemuseum.org. Odyssey Valentine's Dinner & Cruise
Singles/Relationships
To-Do!: ROMANTIC.
Nothing's more magnificent than a Valentine's Day Weekend celebration on the water aboard Chicago's most luxurious cruising vessel, Odyssey. Distinctive cuisine. Live entertainment. Dancing cheek to cheek. Breathtaking views. Laughter and intimate conversation. Create a memory that will last as long as your love. Miscellaneous Info: FIRST COURSE
Lola Rosa and Greens Duo of Field Greens over Concase of Tomato, sprinkled with Cinnamon-Caramelized Pecans, Imported Goat Cheese and Clementine Orange Vinaigrette
SECOND COURSE
Crab and Corn Chowder Blue Crab and Sweet Baby Corn, slowly simmered in a Chardonnay Light Cream
THIRD COURSE
Prime Rib and Prawns Grilled Choice Rib Eye Steak and Jumbo Lemon Herb Prawns accompanied with Roasted Asparagus, Au Gratin Potato Torte and Baby Carrots
DESSERT
Elegant Sweets Table and Odyssey’s… Price: $99 and up. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Navy Pier
600 E. Grand Avenue
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.odysseycruises.com. nextStep Education Classes: Time to Shine! Presenting Your Business Plan!
Educational/Seminars
To-Do!: Participants in the full 16-week nextSTEP classes will have an opportunity to present their business plan to a panel of judges. The business owner of the winning plan will receive 10 hours of one-on –one coaching Free! Valued up to $750. Soleil's Take: Classes are now free! View the entire schedule! Miscellaneous Info: nextStep Business Classes provide hands-on learning experiences that assist entrepreneurs in learning how to write a business plan, forecast financial potential, how to conduct market research and take the right steps to start or grow an existing business. Price: Free! Ticket Link: Register Today! (Provide Name, Daytime Phone, Email and Address). Other Times To-Do It: Tuesdays & Thursdays through February 16, 2012.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Chicago Urban League
4510 S Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60653.
For more info visit www.thechicagourbanleague.org. Chicago Independent Artists Network
Prof. Dev./Networking
To-Do!: This To-Do will be updated as information becomes available. Choose "Notify me of changes" on the Other Event Action toolbar menu below to receive automatic e-mail or mobile text updates about this To-Do! Miscellaneous Info: The purpose of CIAN is to keep creative people in Chicago, WORKING in Chicago. Join us if you act, produce, direct, sing, dance, need locations for events, do security, bake cupcakes . . . everyone needs something for their creative endeavors. Price: Free!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM.
Wishbone Restaurant
3300 N Lincoln Ave
Chicago, IL 60657-1108.
For more info visit www.facebook.com. Anti-Valentine's Day Party
Singles/Relationships
Show starts at 8pm.
To-Do!: For the third year in a row, we've teamed up with 2nd Story to bring you the best bad date stories to turn your Valentine's Day frown upside down. This year's hosts Seth & Kellen will keep the laughs going in between story performances, and thanks to Empty Bottle Presents, we'll wrap the party with a kick ass performance by all-girl garage -goth band the Black Belles!
The first 150 ticket buyers will receive a gift bag full of goodies from the Pleasure Chest, rights to skip the door line, and a glass of… Soleil's Take: Who knew bitter could be so fun! Chicago Reader makes it so at their third annual event - and for only $14!! Miscellaneous Info: We're still taking submissions for stories, so if you've got a great Best Bad Date story, you have until February 1 to submit! See contest details below:
•500 words or less
•Told in the first person
•Chicago-centric is a plus
•Engaging - remember, this story is being told to a crowd of 400+ boozers!
•For ideas, visit: 2ndstory.com
•Submissions due Februrary 1
•Send submissions to: Best Bad Date Story
•Include your name, phone number, and a title for the story (you can provide an alias if you… Price: $14. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Logan Square Auditorium
2539 North Kedzie Blvd
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.chicagoreader.com. Sex, Love & The Second City: A Romantic Dot Comedy
Comedy
To-Do!: From The Second City, the legendary comedy theatre and the creators of the touring hit Sex & The Second City, comes a play about relationships in the age of social networking. There are Plenty of Fish in the sea, but can we all live in eHarmony? Or are our lives too much of an open (Face)book? Find out in this hilarious new show! Suggested rating R.
Lunch available at all matinee performances. Dinner available before and during the evening show.
On February 14th, make your Valentine extra happy by ord… Price: $25. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Up Comedy Club
230 W. North Ave - 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60614
(312) 662-4562.
For more info visit upcomedyclub.com. Ameriville
Theater
4pm Saturday Matinee.
To-Do!: by Universes
developed with and directed by Artistic Director Chay Yew
Using Hurricane Katrina as a jumping off point, Ameriville is a highly entertaining performance piece fusing hip-hop, poetry, fl amenco, standup comedy, music and spoken word. Universes weaves this electrifying 90-minute theatrical exploration of race, class, poverty, immigration and political awareness into a great adventure about what it means to be American.
Universes is a New York-based American ensemble company of… Price: $20-50. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 - February 26, 2012.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Victory Gardens Biograph Theater
2433 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 871-3000.
For more info visit www.victorygardens.org. For Lover’s Only (Or For People Who Love Themselves
Singles/Relationships
To-Do!: An intimate Valentine’s Day concert at this special one night-only Valentine’s Day event featuring the most famous love songs of all time performed by Black Ensemble Performers Rick Stone, Dawn Bless, RaShawn Thompson, Lyle Miller, Melanie McCullough, David Simmons, Theo Huff, Katrina Miller, Lawrence Williams, Rueben Echoles, Carrie Abernathy, Stori Johnson and Daryl Brooks.
Love songs including Al Green’s “Love and Happiness,” Otis Redding’s “Try A Little Tenderness” and Etta James’ “At Last” will… Price: $65; Couples, $125. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center
4450 N. Clark Street
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 769-4451.
For more info visit www.blackensembletheater.org. Chicago Jazz Duets f/ Saalik Ziyad & Sarah Marie Young
Live Music
To-Do!: Celebrate Valentines Day with Chicago Jazz Duets Saalik Ziyad and Sarah Marie Young. The rhythm section is Stuart Mindeman on piano, Nathan Brown on bass and Makaya McCraven on drums.
Unique name. Unforgettable voice. Saalik Ziyad, a native Chicagoan born in 1978, began singing at the age of seven. His unique style of song creates deep, melodic vocals that many who have witnessed his craft, soon not forget. His first introduction to music was when he was accepted as a member of the Chicago Children's… Price: $10; Students & Musicians, $5.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012, 8:00 PM – Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 1:00 AM.
The Jazz Showcase
806 S. Plymouth Ct.
Chicago, IL.
For more info visit jazzshowcase.com. All About Love - f/ Keith Sweat, Fantasia and Eric Benet
Singles/Relationships
To-Do!: All About Love Valentine's Day Concert, featuring Keith Sweat, Fantasia and Eric Benet. Soleil's Take: I can hardly believe Eric Benet is at the bottom of this ticket! It wouldn't be a Soleil's Pick without him! Price: $60-70. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012, 8:00 PM – Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 12:00 AM.
Arie Crown Theater
Lakeside Center/McCormick Place
2301 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60616
(312) 791-6190.
For more info visit www.ariecrown.com. Black Creativity: Powerful African-Americans In Energy
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: Learn about different sources of energy—how they work and the impact each has—as you play a highly interactive game of miniature golf. Play your way through the energy landscape of choices like oil, natural gas, wind, solar, hydroelectric and nuclear power. Just as golfers keep score, you keep a running tally of what you've learned at each hole. The final hole is your chance to "putt the vote" and have your say on the best choice for our energy future.
And speaking of the future, this Black Creativity… Price: Adults/Children, $15/10; Chicago Adults/Children, $13/9. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 25 - April 15, 2012.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM.
Museum of Science and Industry
5700 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 684-1414.
For more info visit www.msichicago.org. Chicago Auto Show
Fitness/Athletic/Sporting
To-Do!: First staged in 1901, the Chicago Auto Show is the largest auto show in North America. The Chicago Auto Show utilizes more than 1 million square feet of the McCormick Place complex. McCormick Place offers a total of 2.7 million square feet of exhibit halls with an additional 700,000 square feet of meeting room availability. Price: Adults, $11; Seniors and Children 7-12, $7. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: February 10-19, 2012.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
McCormick Place
Lakeside Center
2301 S. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.chicagoautoshow.com. MCA Screen: David Hartt's "Stray Light"
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: David Hartt’s project Stray Light inaugurates a new series of media-based exhibitions at the MCA called MCA Screen. Hartt, a Chicago-based Canadian artist, has been working with photographs for many years, attracted to the social, cultural, political, and economic complexities of the subjects he captures, rendering them with a cool, dispassionate eye. Stray Light includes a film displayed in a room carpeted in the style of his subject, the Johnson Publishing Company building in Chicago, as well as a group… Price: $12; Children 12 and Under, Free! Other Times To-Do It: November 26, 2011 - April 29, 2012. Image Credit: David Hartt. Lounge, 2011.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 East Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 280-2660.
For more info visit mcachicago.org. Spread the Word! The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: This exhibition developed by The DuSable Museum celebrates the rich history and contributions to Gospel Music and is centered primarily on gospel’s Chicago origins. With Chicago being the “home” of Gospel, Spread the Word!: The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World, recognizes some of the greatest Gospel singers of all time, included are legends such as: Mahalia Jackson, Albertina Walker, Thomas Dorsey, James Cleveland, Sallie Martin and many others. Legendary Chicago choirs, such as Reverend Milton… Price: $10; Students & Seniors, $7; Children 6-11, $3; Children Under 5, Free! Other Times To-Do It: September 20, 2011 - May 20, 2012.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
DuSable Museum
740 East 56th Place
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 947-0600.
For more info visit www.dusablemuseum.org. Cultural Journey: Mary Mitchell
Author/Artist Event
To-Do!: African Heritage Month 2012 Guest Mary A. Mitchell is an editorial board member and columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times. She is a recipient of numerous journalism awards, including the prestigious Award of Excellence from the National Association of Black Journalists; the Studs Terkel Award from the Community Media Workshop; the Peter Lisagor Award from the Chicago Headliner Club; the Phenomenal Woman Award-Media from the Expo for Today's Black Woman; and the Humanitarian Award from the 100 Black Men of Chi… Price: Free!
Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM.
Stage Two - Columbia College
618 S. Michigan Ave.
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.colum.edu. Ameriville
Theater
4pm Saturday Matinee.
To-Do!: by Universes
developed with and directed by Artistic Director Chay Yew
Using Hurricane Katrina as a jumping off point, Ameriville is a highly entertaining performance piece fusing hip-hop, poetry, fl amenco, standup comedy, music and spoken word. Universes weaves this electrifying 90-minute theatrical exploration of race, class, poverty, immigration and political awareness into a great adventure about what it means to be American.
Universes is a New York-based American ensemble company of… Price: $20-50. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 - February 26, 2012.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
Victory Gardens Biograph Theater
2433 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 871-3000.
For more info visit www.victorygardens.org. Tropical Treat Nights
Family/Children
To-Do!: Enjoy a tasty treat while learning about the “sweet plants” of the Conservatory. Fact and flavor stations will be staffed by educators throughout the Conservatory, featuring chocolate, chicle, vanilla, cinnamon, chewing gum, banana and more. Come taste your way through our tropical paradise!
Additional activities include:
• Interactive Tropical Tunes served up to you by Sandy Lucas, a favorite in the world of children’s music. For these special February Wednesday evening events, join Sandy and frien… Miscellaneous Info: Tropical Treat Nights are replacing Sweet Saturdays, a large annual event that has been cancelled for 2012 due to room closures at the Conservatory. Price: Free (But Make a Donation)! Other Times To-Do It: February 8 and 15, 2012.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 3:00 PM – 7:30 PM.
Garfield Park Conservatory
300 N Central Park Ave
Chicago, IL 60624.
For more info visit www.garfieldconservatory.org. Jazz'n On the South Side: TBD
Live Music
To-Do!: Groove to the smooth jazz vibes of a different featured artist each Wednesday night! Food and cash bar available.
This To-Do will be updated as information becomes available. Choose "Notify me of changes" on the Other Event Action toolbar menu to receive automatic e-mail or mobile text updates about this To-Do! Price: $10. Other Times To-Do It: Wednesdays.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
eta Creative Arts Foundation
7558 S South Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60619
(773) 752-3955.
For more info visit www.facebook.com. Black Pearl Sings!
Theater
1pm Matinee.
To-Do!: A powerful new play featuring Northlight favorite E. Faye Butler!
by Frank Higgins
Highlighted by beautiful, a cappella renditions of little known American folk songs, this play tells the Depression-era story of two extraordinary women: a gifted singer stuck in a Texas prison and the Library of Congress song collector who is determined to introduce her silky voice and steely spirit to the world. Price: $25-60. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 13 - February 19, 2012.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Northlight Theatre
9501 Skokie Boulevard
Skokie, IL 60077
(847) 673-6300.
For more info visit www.northlight.org. Invisible Man (Closing Week)
Theater
Slightly over 3 hours, with two intermissions.
To-Do!: “I am an invisible man.” In this world premiere stage production, the first authorized by The Ralph and Fanny Ellison Charitable Trust, a landmark American novel comes to life. Ralph Ellison’s classic story of a young African American’s search for his identity blazes with luminous theatricality and truth. Adapted by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Oren Jacoby, Invisible Man marks the first Chicago appearance by award-winning New York City director Christopher McElroen, a co-founder of the Classical Theatre of… Soleil's Take: Court Theatre did a great job on bringing Ellison's novel to the stage! Check out C. Dixon Freeman's Review! Price: $45-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 12 – February 19, 2012.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM.
Court Theatre
5535 S. Ellis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637
(773) 753-4472.
For more info visit www.courttheatre.org. Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting (Closing Week)
Theater
3pm Matinee on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
To-Do!: Written by Ed Schmidt
Directed by J Nicole Brooks
April 9, 1947
Baseball’s Opening Day is one week away, and Branch Rickey, General Manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, will call up Jackie Robinson to break the color-barrier and play as the Major League’s first black ballplayer. If he does, Robinson will face loud and heated opposition from virtually every owner, manager, and player in baseball – and it won’t be a cakewalk with the fans, either. Who will be his allies if he makes the most daring and… Price: $27.50-68. Discounts: $10 Off any Wednesday, Thursday or Friday performance w/ Discount Code "Soleil". Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 4 - February 19, 2012. Venue Info: Discounted parking is available for Lookingglass patrons at both the nearby John Hancock Center and Olympia Centre Self Park (161 E. Chicago Avenue).
Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
LookingGlass Theatre
821 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 337-0665.
For more info visit lookingglasstheatre.org. Race (Closing Week)
Theater
To-Do!: Race begins as a crime mystery, as two high-profile lawyers—Henry (Geoffrey Owens) who is black, and Jack (Marc Grapey) who is white—are called to defend a wealthy white client Charles (Patrick Clear) who is charged with the rape of an African American woman. The client admits that he was intimate with his accuser but vehemently denies the charges of rape, insisting that the sex was consensual and that he and the woman were in love. As the two lawyers mull over the potential pitfalls in accepting the case—a… Price: $25-89. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 14 - February 19, 2012. Venue Info: Don't be fooled into parking across from the theater on Dearborn! Validated parking is available in the lot on Lake Street, between Clark and Dearborn.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Goodman Theatre
170 North Dearborn Street
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 443-3800.
For more info visit www.goodmantheatre.org. The Jackie Wilson Story
Theater
To-Do!: The Jackie Wilson Story was first produced in 2000 and was an immediate smash hit. The highly popular national tour was launched in 2002, and culminated at the famous Apollo Theater in New York City, running a record of the most performances of a stage play at this historical New York City landmark. This contagious production chronicles the rise and fall of the admired musician and performer. Slightly different than the original version, the show will still include many of Wilson’s hits such as (Your Love… Price: $55-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: November 18, 2011 – March 18, 2012.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center
4450 N. Clark Street
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 769-4451.
For more info visit www.blackensembletheater.org. World Music Wednesdays: George Kahumoku Jr. & Keoki Kahumoku
Live Music
To-Do!: There's a reason he's been called Hawaii's Renaissance man: George Kahumoku, Jr. is a 4-time Grammy Award winner in Hawaiian music as well as multiple Na Hoku Hanohano Award-winner. He is a slack key guitar master, songwriter, world-traveling performer, high school and college teacher, artist and sculptor, storyteller and writer, farmer, chef and entrepreneur. George will be joined by his son, fifth generation slack-key guitarist Keoki, and wife, hula dancer, Nancy Kahumoko. Miscellaneous Info: World Music Wednesdays is a free community series that explores the rich diversity that exists in the Chicago community and runs year round (47 Wednesdays). World Music Wednesdays will present music, dance and culture of Africa, Europe, Asia, The Middle East and The Americas. Tickets are free, but reservations are strongly recommended. Call us at (773) 728-6000 to secure your seats! Price: Suggested Donation, $5. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Venue Info: What a stimulating facility this is! The energy is palpable before you even reach the door. Old Town School offers a very diverse range of performances in a family-friendly environment. Seating in the main theater (the Concert Hall) manages intimacy, despite its large capacity. First floor seating offers both cabaret- and auditorium-style seating. Even in the second floor balcony, you’ll be right in the thick of the action. Food and beverages are available for sale – and can be taken into the theater!…
Wednesday, February 15, 2012, 8:30 PM – 11:00 PM.
Old Town School of Folk Music
4544 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 728-6000.
For more info visit www.oldtownschool.org. Black Creativity: Powerful African-Americans In Energy
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: Learn about different sources of energy—how they work and the impact each has—as you play a highly interactive game of miniature golf. Play your way through the energy landscape of choices like oil, natural gas, wind, solar, hydroelectric and nuclear power. Just as golfers keep score, you keep a running tally of what you've learned at each hole. The final hole is your chance to "putt the vote" and have your say on the best choice for our energy future.
And speaking of the future, this Black Creativity… Price: Adults/Children, $15/10; Chicago Adults/Children, $13/9. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 25 - April 15, 2012.
Thursday, February 16, 2012, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM.
Museum of Science and Industry
5700 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 684-1414.
For more info visit www.msichicago.org. Chicago Auto Show
Fitness/Athletic/Sporting
To-Do!: First staged in 1901, the Chicago Auto Show is the largest auto show in North America. The Chicago Auto Show utilizes more than 1 million square feet of the McCormick Place complex. McCormick Place offers a total of 2.7 million square feet of exhibit halls with an additional 700,000 square feet of meeting room availability. Price: Adults, $11; Seniors and Children 7-12, $7. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: February 10-19, 2012.
Thursday, February 16, 2012, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
McCormick Place
Lakeside Center
2301 S. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.chicagoautoshow.com. MCA Screen: David Hartt's "Stray Light"
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: David Hartt’s project Stray Light inaugurates a new series of media-based exhibitions at the MCA called MCA Screen. Hartt, a Chicago-based Canadian artist, has been working with photographs for many years, attracted to the social, cultural, political, and economic complexities of the subjects he captures, rendering them with a cool, dispassionate eye. Stray Light includes a film displayed in a room carpeted in the style of his subject, the Johnson Publishing Company building in Chicago, as well as a group… Price: $12; Children 12 and Under, Free! Other Times To-Do It: November 26, 2011 - April 29, 2012. Image Credit: David Hartt. Lounge, 2011.
Thursday, February 16, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 East Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 280-2660.
For more info visit mcachicago.org. Spread the Word! The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: This exhibition developed by The DuSable Museum celebrates the rich history and contributions to Gospel Music and is centered primarily on gospel’s Chicago origins. With Chicago being the “home” of Gospel, Spread the Word!: The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World, recognizes some of the greatest Gospel singers of all time, included are legends such as: Mahalia Jackson, Albertina Walker, Thomas Dorsey, James Cleveland, Sallie Martin and many others. Legendary Chicago choirs, such as Reverend Milton… Price: $10; Students & Seniors, $7; Children 6-11, $3; Children Under 5, Free! Other Times To-Do It: September 20, 2011 - May 20, 2012.
Thursday, February 16, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
DuSable Museum
740 East 56th Place
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 947-0600.
For more info visit www.dusablemuseum.org. World Kitchen: Cozy Winter Weeknight
Food & Wine
To-Do!: Everyone is in a hurry for dinner, and we’re always looking for healthy food that
all can enjoy. Don’t let the perfect menu elude you! We will share our best ideas for quick, easy, nutritious and delicious dishes that are perfect for any winter weeknight. Soleil's Take: These classes sell out quickly, so don't snooze on it! Registration required. View the entire schedule! Miscellaneous Info: Classes begin promptly and preregistration is required. Please wear appropriate clothing and non-skid shoes; bring an apron if desired.
WORLD KITCHEN
Explore Chicago's diverse cultural heritage through ethnic cuisines and focus on culinary skills and techniques in our state-of-the-art World Kitchen facility. World Kitchen offers opportunities to experience the true pleasures of food as nourishment for the body as well as art for the soul. Food industry professionals share their expertise with students… Price: $30. Ticket Link: Register Now! Other Times To-Do It: Varied Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, January 21 - Mar 31, 2012.
Thursday, February 16, 2012, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Gallery 37 Center for the Arts
66 E. Randolph St.
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.chicagoworldkitchen.org. Adler After Dark
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: Enjoy cocktails and appetizers against the award-winning view of the Chicago skyline seen only from the Adler. Amble around the Adler's exhibitions or take in a sky or space show. See Saturn's rings or Jupiter's great red spot with your own eyes using the Adler's telescopes.
Adler After Dark is the only time you can peek through the Doane Observatory telescope, the largest telescope in the Midwest accessible to the public. Great for groups and makes for a very original first date, Adler After Dark has so… Miscellaneous Info: All guests must be 21 and up. A cash bar and full cafe menu is available. Price: $17; Advance, $12; Members, $9. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: Third Thursdays.
Thursday, February 16, 2012, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Adler Planetarium
1300 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60605
(312) 922-7827.
For more info visit www.adlerplanetarium.org. MB Real Talk: How to Live and Love Beyond A Hallmark Card
Singles/Relationships
To-Do!: In keeping of MetroBoard tradition, PPD will bring together experts for a “real conversation” on love, sex and relationships. Valentine’s Day is a celebrated occasion for those in romantic relationships but this season of love can also be a time of self-doubt, loneliness,... and/or hopelessness for those who are single. Through our panelists and the moderator, we hope to provide helpful tips on how singles and those in relationships can live their best life throughout the year and express love long after Va… Price: Free!
Thursday, February 16, 2012, 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM.
Mezé Restaurant
205 N. Peoria
Chicago, IL 60607.
For more info visit www.metroboard.org. nextStep Education Classes: Time to Shine! Presenting Your Business Plan!
Educational/Seminars
To-Do!: Participants in the full 16-week nextSTEP classes will have an opportunity to present their business plan to a panel of judges. The business owner of the winning plan will receive 10 hours of one-on –one coaching Free! Valued up to $750. Soleil's Take: Classes are now free! View the entire schedule! Miscellaneous Info: nextStep Business Classes provide hands-on learning experiences that assist entrepreneurs in learning how to write a business plan, forecast financial potential, how to conduct market research and take the right steps to start or grow an existing business. Price: Free! Ticket Link: Register Today! (Provide Name, Daytime Phone, Email and Address). Other Times To-Do It: Tuesdays & Thursdays through February 16, 2012.
Thursday, February 16, 2012, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Chicago Urban League
4510 S Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60653.
For more info visit www.thechicagourbanleague.org. Afro Latino Live Series
Live Music
Doors open at 5pm.
To-Do!: African Diasporic Music from Latin America. Miscellaneous Info: Rumba Super Club in association with Sound Culture launch what will be the city's only dedicated night to exploring African diasporic music in Latin America right here in Chicago. The cultural and musical influence of Africa on Latin America through colonization and slavery is undeniable. Latin America's most popular forms of music such as Salsa, Rumba, Bomba Plena, Samba, Punta Rock, Cumbia and Son Jarocho have direct African ties and are a mixture of various cultural influences over time. Join us as we c… Price: $12; Advance, $8. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays.
Thursday, February 16, 2012, 7:30 PM – 11:00 PM.
Rumba
351 West Hubbard Street
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 222-1226.
For more info visit www.soundculturechicago.com. Black Pearl Sings!
Theater
To-Do!: A powerful new play featuring Northlight favorite E. Faye Butler!
by Frank Higgins
Highlighted by beautiful, a cappella renditions of little known American folk songs, this play tells the Depression-era story of two extraordinary women: a gifted singer stuck in a Texas prison and the Library of Congress song collector who is determined to introduce her silky voice and steely spirit to the world. Price: $25-60. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 13 - February 19, 2012.
Thursday, February 16, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Northlight Theatre
9501 Skokie Boulevard
Skokie, IL 60077
(847) 673-6300.
For more info visit www.northlight.org. Invisible Man (Closing Week)
Theater
Slightly over 3 hours, with two intermissions.
To-Do!: “I am an invisible man.” In this world premiere stage production, the first authorized by The Ralph and Fanny Ellison Charitable Trust, a landmark American novel comes to life. Ralph Ellison’s classic story of a young African American’s search for his identity blazes with luminous theatricality and truth. Adapted by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Oren Jacoby, Invisible Man marks the first Chicago appearance by award-winning New York City director Christopher McElroen, a co-founder of the Classical Theatre of… Soleil's Take: Court Theatre did a great job on bringing Ellison's novel to the stage! Check out C. Dixon Freeman's Review! Price: $45-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 12 – February 19, 2012.
Thursday, February 16, 2012, 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM.
Court Theatre
5535 S. Ellis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637
(773) 753-4472.
For more info visit www.courttheatre.org. Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting (Closing Week)
Theater
3pm Matinee on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
To-Do!: Written by Ed Schmidt
Directed by J Nicole Brooks
April 9, 1947
Baseball’s Opening Day is one week away, and Branch Rickey, General Manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, will call up Jackie Robinson to break the color-barrier and play as the Major League’s first black ballplayer. If he does, Robinson will face loud and heated opposition from virtually every owner, manager, and player in baseball – and it won’t be a cakewalk with the fans, either. Who will be his allies if he makes the most daring and… Price: $27.50-68. Discounts: $10 Off any Wednesday, Thursday or Friday performance w/ Discount Code "Soleil". Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 4 - February 19, 2012. Venue Info: Discounted parking is available for Lookingglass patrons at both the nearby John Hancock Center and Olympia Centre Self Park (161 E. Chicago Avenue).
Thursday, February 16, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
LookingGlass Theatre
821 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 337-0665.
For more info visit lookingglasstheatre.org. Race (Closing Week)
Theater
To-Do!: Race begins as a crime mystery, as two high-profile lawyers—Henry (Geoffrey Owens) who is black, and Jack (Marc Grapey) who is white—are called to defend a wealthy white client Charles (Patrick Clear) who is charged with the rape of an African American woman. The client admits that he was intimate with his accuser but vehemently denies the charges of rape, insisting that the sex was consensual and that he and the woman were in love. As the two lawyers mull over the potential pitfalls in accepting the case—a… Price: $25-89. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 14 - February 19, 2012. Venue Info: Don't be fooled into parking across from the theater on Dearborn! Validated parking is available in the lot on Lake Street, between Clark and Dearborn.
Thursday, February 16, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Goodman Theatre
170 North Dearborn Street
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 443-3800.
For more info visit www.goodmantheatre.org. Ameriville
Theater
4pm Saturday Matinee.
To-Do!: by Universes
developed with and directed by Artistic Director Chay Yew
Using Hurricane Katrina as a jumping off point, Ameriville is a highly entertaining performance piece fusing hip-hop, poetry, fl amenco, standup comedy, music and spoken word. Universes weaves this electrifying 90-minute theatrical exploration of race, class, poverty, immigration and political awareness into a great adventure about what it means to be American.
Universes is a New York-based American ensemble company of… Price: $20-50. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 - February 26, 2012.
Thursday, February 16, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Victory Gardens Biograph Theater
2433 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 871-3000.
For more info visit www.victorygardens.org. The Jackie Wilson Story
Theater
To-Do!: The Jackie Wilson Story was first produced in 2000 and was an immediate smash hit. The highly popular national tour was launched in 2002, and culminated at the famous Apollo Theater in New York City, running a record of the most performances of a stage play at this historical New York City landmark. This contagious production chronicles the rise and fall of the admired musician and performer. Slightly different than the original version, the show will still include many of Wilson’s hits such as (Your Love… Price: $55-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: November 18, 2011 – March 18, 2012.
Thursday, February 16, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center
4450 N. Clark Street
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 769-4451.
For more info visit www.blackensembletheater.org. Sweet Home
Theater
To-Do!: Written By: Keith Josef Adkins
Directed By: Kimberly Crutcher
Strange things are happening in Sweet Home. A once thriving black town, it is now an urban wasteland with a peculiar problem: all the black boys are missing. When Demus, a quirky young genetic engineer, stumbles into Sweet Home seeking refuge, he quickly finds himself tangled in the bizarre mystery. He also must make a choice—become the next missing black boy, or engineer the perfect indestructible black boy and save Sweet Home forever. Price: $21-23. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 – March 11, 2012. Venue Info: Late seating is awkward here, so be on time! www.GreenhouseTheater.org.
Thursday, February 16, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Greenhouse Theater Center
2257 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 404-7336.
For more info visit www.mpaact.org. The Legend of Buster Neal
Theater
To-Do!: By Jackie Alexander
Directed by Kemati J Porter
In “The Legend of Buster Neal,” a fearless civil rights activist reappears 60 years after his supposed death to face his greatest challenge, his great- great grandson, a 16 year old lured by the streets. Price: $30; Thursdays, $20. Other Times To-Do It: January 12 – March 4, 2012.
Thursday, February 16, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
eta Creative Arts Foundation
7558 South South Chicago Avenue
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 752-3955.
For more info visit www.etacreativearts.org. Black Creativity: Powerful African-Americans In Energy
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: Learn about different sources of energy—how they work and the impact each has—as you play a highly interactive game of miniature golf. Play your way through the energy landscape of choices like oil, natural gas, wind, solar, hydroelectric and nuclear power. Just as golfers keep score, you keep a running tally of what you've learned at each hole. The final hole is your chance to "putt the vote" and have your say on the best choice for our energy future.
And speaking of the future, this Black Creativity… Price: Adults/Children, $15/10; Chicago Adults/Children, $13/9. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 25 - April 15, 2012.
Friday, February 17, 2012, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM.
Museum of Science and Industry
5700 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 684-1414.
For more info visit www.msichicago.org. Chicago Auto Show
Fitness/Athletic/Sporting
To-Do!: First staged in 1901, the Chicago Auto Show is the largest auto show in North America. The Chicago Auto Show utilizes more than 1 million square feet of the McCormick Place complex. McCormick Place offers a total of 2.7 million square feet of exhibit halls with an additional 700,000 square feet of meeting room availability. Price: Adults, $11; Seniors and Children 7-12, $7. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: February 10-19, 2012.
Friday, February 17, 2012, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
McCormick Place
Lakeside Center
2301 S. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.chicagoautoshow.com. MCA Screen: David Hartt's "Stray Light"
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: David Hartt’s project Stray Light inaugurates a new series of media-based exhibitions at the MCA called MCA Screen. Hartt, a Chicago-based Canadian artist, has been working with photographs for many years, attracted to the social, cultural, political, and economic complexities of the subjects he captures, rendering them with a cool, dispassionate eye. Stray Light includes a film displayed in a room carpeted in the style of his subject, the Johnson Publishing Company building in Chicago, as well as a group… Price: $12; Children 12 and Under, Free! Other Times To-Do It: November 26, 2011 - April 29, 2012. Image Credit: David Hartt. Lounge, 2011.
Friday, February 17, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 East Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 280-2660.
For more info visit mcachicago.org. Spread the Word! The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: This exhibition developed by The DuSable Museum celebrates the rich history and contributions to Gospel Music and is centered primarily on gospel’s Chicago origins. With Chicago being the “home” of Gospel, Spread the Word!: The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World, recognizes some of the greatest Gospel singers of all time, included are legends such as: Mahalia Jackson, Albertina Walker, Thomas Dorsey, James Cleveland, Sallie Martin and many others. Legendary Chicago choirs, such as Reverend Milton… Price: $10; Students & Seniors, $7; Children 6-11, $3; Children Under 5, Free! Other Times To-Do It: September 20, 2011 - May 20, 2012.
Friday, February 17, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
DuSable Museum
740 East 56th Place
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 947-0600.
For more info visit www.dusablemuseum.org. Black & Gypsy
Live Music
To-Do!: Raimundo Amador and Diego Amador invite you for a very special event: they will perform the debut concert of their yet-to-be-released record, BLACK & Gypsy (March, 2012) as an acoustic duo!
Raimundo Amador is an experimental flamenco guitarist rooted in the flamenco tradition yet open to other genres of a common “heart.” His career includes work with Björk, Enrique Morente, Antonio Flores, Mala Rodríguez, Tomatito and Remedios Amaya among others. He worked with Camarón on his album ''La Leyenda del… Price: $20. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: February 17 and 18, 2012.
Friday, February 17, 2012, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
Instituto Cervantes of Chicago
31 W. Ohio St.
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 335-1996.
For more info visit chicago.cervantes.es. Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting (Closing Week)
Theater
3pm Matinee on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
To-Do!: Written by Ed Schmidt
Directed by J Nicole Brooks
April 9, 1947
Baseball’s Opening Day is one week away, and Branch Rickey, General Manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, will call up Jackie Robinson to break the color-barrier and play as the Major League’s first black ballplayer. If he does, Robinson will face loud and heated opposition from virtually every owner, manager, and player in baseball – and it won’t be a cakewalk with the fans, either. Who will be his allies if he makes the most daring and… Price: $27.50-68. Discounts: $10 Off any Wednesday, Thursday or Friday performance w/ Discount Code "Soleil". Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 4 - February 19, 2012. Venue Info: Discounted parking is available for Lookingglass patrons at both the nearby John Hancock Center and Olympia Centre Self Park (161 E. Chicago Avenue).
Friday, February 17, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
LookingGlass Theatre
821 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 337-0665.
For more info visit lookingglasstheatre.org. Ameriville
Theater
4pm Saturday Matinee.
To-Do!: by Universes
developed with and directed by Artistic Director Chay Yew
Using Hurricane Katrina as a jumping off point, Ameriville is a highly entertaining performance piece fusing hip-hop, poetry, fl amenco, standup comedy, music and spoken word. Universes weaves this electrifying 90-minute theatrical exploration of race, class, poverty, immigration and political awareness into a great adventure about what it means to be American.
Universes is a New York-based American ensemble company of… Price: $20-50. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 - February 26, 2012.
Friday, February 17, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Victory Gardens Biograph Theater
2433 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 871-3000.
For more info visit www.victorygardens.org. A Lesson Before Dying
Theater
2pm Saturday matinee.
To-Do!: Bayonne, Louisiana, 1948 – Jefferson is a young black man sentenced to die for a crime he did not commit. Grant Wiggins is a local black teacher indebted to those who sent him to college. When Wiggins is enlisted to teach Jefferson to face his death with dignity, both men must re-examine what it means to be a human being. Based on the novel by Ernest J. Gaines.
A 1996 article in the New York Times described Romulus Linney as “America’s bravest playwright” because of the ambitious scope of his work, which… Miscellaneous Info: On February 18th at 2pm, see A Lesson Before Dying and enjoy A Taste of New Orleans Buffet at the post-matinee fundraiser. Price: $15; 2/18 Fundraiser, $50. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: February 3 - February 25, 2012. Venue Info: Click here for important parking information.
Friday, February 17, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Lincoln Square Theatre
4754 N. Leavitt Street
Chicago, Il 60625.
For more info visit lincolnsquaretheatre.org. Black Pearl Sings! (Closing Weekend)
Theater
To-Do!: A powerful new play featuring Northlight favorite E. Faye Butler!
by Frank Higgins
Highlighted by beautiful, a cappella renditions of little known American folk songs, this play tells the Depression-era story of two extraordinary women: a gifted singer stuck in a Texas prison and the Library of Congress song collector who is determined to introduce her silky voice and steely spirit to the world. Price: $25-60. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 13 - February 19, 2012.
Friday, February 17, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Northlight Theatre
9501 Skokie Boulevard
Skokie, IL 60077
(847) 673-6300.
For more info visit www.northlight.org. Invisible Man (Closing Week)
Theater
Slightly over 3 hours, with two intermissions.
To-Do!: “I am an invisible man.” In this world premiere stage production, the first authorized by The Ralph and Fanny Ellison Charitable Trust, a landmark American novel comes to life. Ralph Ellison’s classic story of a young African American’s search for his identity blazes with luminous theatricality and truth. Adapted by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Oren Jacoby, Invisible Man marks the first Chicago appearance by award-winning New York City director Christopher McElroen, a co-founder of the Classical Theatre of… Soleil's Take: Court Theatre did a great job on bringing Ellison's novel to the stage! Check out C. Dixon Freeman's Review! Price: $45-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 12 – February 19, 2012.
Friday, February 17, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:30 PM.
Court Theatre
5535 S. Ellis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637
(773) 753-4472.
For more info visit www.courttheatre.org. Race (Closing Week)
Theater
To-Do!: Race begins as a crime mystery, as two high-profile lawyers—Henry (Geoffrey Owens) who is black, and Jack (Marc Grapey) who is white—are called to defend a wealthy white client Charles (Patrick Clear) who is charged with the rape of an African American woman. The client admits that he was intimate with his accuser but vehemently denies the charges of rape, insisting that the sex was consensual and that he and the woman were in love. As the two lawyers mull over the potential pitfalls in accepting the case—a… Price: $25-89. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 14 - February 19, 2012. Venue Info: Don't be fooled into parking across from the theater on Dearborn! Validated parking is available in the lot on Lake Street, between Clark and Dearborn.
Friday, February 17, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Goodman Theatre
170 North Dearborn Street
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 443-3800.
For more info visit www.goodmantheatre.org. Sweet Home
Theater
To-Do!: Written By: Keith Josef Adkins
Directed By: Kimberly Crutcher
Strange things are happening in Sweet Home. A once thriving black town, it is now an urban wasteland with a peculiar problem: all the black boys are missing. When Demus, a quirky young genetic engineer, stumbles into Sweet Home seeking refuge, he quickly finds himself tangled in the bizarre mystery. He also must make a choice—become the next missing black boy, or engineer the perfect indestructible black boy and save Sweet Home forever. Price: $21-23. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 – March 11, 2012. Venue Info: Late seating is awkward here, so be on time! www.GreenhouseTheater.org.
Friday, February 17, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Greenhouse Theater Center
2257 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 404-7336.
For more info visit www.mpaact.org. The Jackie Wilson Story
Theater
To-Do!: The Jackie Wilson Story was first produced in 2000 and was an immediate smash hit. The highly popular national tour was launched in 2002, and culminated at the famous Apollo Theater in New York City, running a record of the most performances of a stage play at this historical New York City landmark. This contagious production chronicles the rise and fall of the admired musician and performer. Slightly different than the original version, the show will still include many of Wilson’s hits such as (Your Love… Price: $55-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: November 18, 2011 – March 18, 2012.
Friday, February 17, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center
4450 N. Clark Street
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 769-4451.
For more info visit www.blackensembletheater.org. The Legend of Buster Neal
Theater
To-Do!: By Jackie Alexander
Directed by Kemati J Porter
In “The Legend of Buster Neal,” a fearless civil rights activist reappears 60 years after his supposed death to face his greatest challenge, his great- great grandson, a 16 year old lured by the streets. Price: $30; Thursdays, $20. Other Times To-Do It: January 12 – March 4, 2012.
Friday, February 17, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
eta Creative Arts Foundation
7558 South South Chicago Avenue
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 752-3955.
For more info visit www.etacreativearts.org. Milonga (Global Dance Party): f/ TBD
Live Music
To-Do!: This To-Do will be updated as information becomes available. Choose "Notify me of changes" on the Other Event Action toolbar menu to receive automatic e-mail or mobile text updates about this To-Do! Soleil's Take: See more Milonga dates! Miscellaneous Info: The Global Dance Party is a new Friday series that offers an exciting opportunity for the Old Town School community to experiment with dance styles from around the globe. Each night will feature a dance class at 8:30 PM followed by two hours of dance music by dance bands and DJs. Price: $10. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Venue Info: What a stimulating facility this is! The energy is palpable before you even reach the door. Old Town School offers a very diverse range of performances in a family-friendly environment. Seating in the main theater (the Concert Hall) manages intimacy, despite its large capacity. First floor seating offers both cabaret- and auditorium-style seating. Even in the second floor balcony, you’ll be right in the thick of the action. Food and beverages are available for sale – and can be taken into the theater!…
Friday, February 17, 2012, 8:30 PM – 11:30 PM.
Old Town School of Folk Music
Myron R. Szold Music & Dance Hall
4545 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 728-6000.
For more info visit www.oldtownschool.org. Black Creativity: Powerful African-Americans In Energy
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: Learn about different sources of energy—how they work and the impact each has—as you play a highly interactive game of miniature golf. Play your way through the energy landscape of choices like oil, natural gas, wind, solar, hydroelectric and nuclear power. Just as golfers keep score, you keep a running tally of what you've learned at each hole. The final hole is your chance to "putt the vote" and have your say on the best choice for our energy future.
And speaking of the future, this Black Creativity… Price: Adults/Children, $15/10; Chicago Adults/Children, $13/9. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 25 - April 15, 2012.
Saturday, February 18, 2012, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM.
Museum of Science and Industry
5700 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 684-1414.
For more info visit www.msichicago.org. Chicago Auto Show
Fitness/Athletic/Sporting
To-Do!: First staged in 1901, the Chicago Auto Show is the largest auto show in North America. The Chicago Auto Show utilizes more than 1 million square feet of the McCormick Place complex. McCormick Place offers a total of 2.7 million square feet of exhibit halls with an additional 700,000 square feet of meeting room availability. Price: Adults, $11; Seniors and Children 7-12, $7. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: February 10-19, 2012.
Saturday, February 18, 2012, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
McCormick Place
Lakeside Center
2301 S. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.chicagoautoshow.com. MCA Screen: David Hartt's "Stray Light"
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: David Hartt’s project Stray Light inaugurates a new series of media-based exhibitions at the MCA called MCA Screen. Hartt, a Chicago-based Canadian artist, has been working with photographs for many years, attracted to the social, cultural, political, and economic complexities of the subjects he captures, rendering them with a cool, dispassionate eye. Stray Light includes a film displayed in a room carpeted in the style of his subject, the Johnson Publishing Company building in Chicago, as well as a group… Price: $12; Children 12 and Under, Free! Other Times To-Do It: November 26, 2011 - April 29, 2012. Image Credit: David Hartt. Lounge, 2011.
Saturday, February 18, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 East Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 280-2660.
For more info visit mcachicago.org. Spread the Word! The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: This exhibition developed by The DuSable Museum celebrates the rich history and contributions to Gospel Music and is centered primarily on gospel’s Chicago origins. With Chicago being the “home” of Gospel, Spread the Word!: The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World, recognizes some of the greatest Gospel singers of all time, included are legends such as: Mahalia Jackson, Albertina Walker, Thomas Dorsey, James Cleveland, Sallie Martin and many others. Legendary Chicago choirs, such as Reverend Milton… Price: $10; Students & Seniors, $7; Children 6-11, $3; Children Under 5, Free! Other Times To-Do It: September 20, 2011 - May 20, 2012.
Saturday, February 18, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
DuSable Museum
740 East 56th Place
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 947-0600.
For more info visit www.dusablemuseum.org. Polar Adventure Days
Family/Children
To-Do!: Polar Adventure Days offer families the opportunity to explore Northerly Island and come face-to-face with live animals, engage in winter activities, watch ice sculpture carvings, and create nature-inspired crafts. Participants are encouraged to dress for the weather as events take place both outdoors and inside the visitor center.
The following features and activities will be available at Polar Adventure Days:
· The first 500 visitors receive a complimentary Polar Adventure Day mug filled with hot… Soleil's Take: These "Family Adventure" days are really a good (and free!) time! Treat the kids in your life to some winter fun! Miscellaneous Info: Please call to confirm scheduled activities for Polar Adventure Days as activities are subject to change. For more information, call 312-742-PLAY (7529). Price: Free! Other Times To-Do It: December 10, 2011, January 21 and Febuary 18, 2012.
Saturday, February 18, 2012, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
Northerly Island
Museum Campus
1400 S. Lynn White Dr.
Chicago, IL.
For more info visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com. Community Cinema - More Than a Month
Film
To-Do!: Shukree Hassan Tilghman, a 29-year-old African American filmmaker, is on a cross-country campaign to end Black History Month. Through this thoughtful, humorous journey, More Than a Month investigates what the treatment of history tells us about race and equality in a "post-racial" America. Miscellaneous Info: Chicago Community Cinema is proud to announce our 5th season of the documentary film series at the Chicago Cultural Center. All films in the series are carefully culled from the Emmy Award-winning PBS series, Independent Lens. From September, 2011 to May 2012, Chicago Community Cinema presents one documentary per month. Each screening is free(!), approximately one-hour long, and paired with a panel discussion, an on-stage interview or other form of engagement to explore the topics raised by that evening’s… Price: Free! Other Times To-Do It: Third Saturdays through May.
Saturday, February 18, 2012, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
Chicago Cultural Center
Claudia Cassidy Theater - 2nd Floor
78 East Washington Street
Chicago, Illinois 60602
(312) 744-6630.
For more info visit communitycinema.org. Black & Gypsy
Live Music
To-Do!: Raimundo Amador and Diego Amador invite you for a very special event: they will perform the debut concert of their yet-to-be-released record, BLACK & Gypsy (March, 2012) as an acoustic duo!
Raimundo Amador is an experimental flamenco guitarist rooted in the flamenco tradition yet open to other genres of a common “heart.” His career includes work with Björk, Enrique Morente, Antonio Flores, Mala Rodríguez, Tomatito and Remedios Amaya among others. He worked with Camarón on his album ''La Leyenda del… Price: $20. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: February 17 and 18, 2012.
Saturday, February 18, 2012, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
Instituto Cervantes of Chicago
31 W. Ohio St.
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 335-1996.
For more info visit chicago.cervantes.es. Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting (Closing Week)
Theater
3pm Matinee on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
To-Do!: Written by Ed Schmidt
Directed by J Nicole Brooks
April 9, 1947
Baseball’s Opening Day is one week away, and Branch Rickey, General Manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, will call up Jackie Robinson to break the color-barrier and play as the Major League’s first black ballplayer. If he does, Robinson will face loud and heated opposition from virtually every owner, manager, and player in baseball – and it won’t be a cakewalk with the fans, either. Who will be his allies if he makes the most daring and… Price: $27.50-68. Discounts: $10 Off any Wednesday, Thursday or Friday performance w/ Discount Code "Soleil". Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 4 - February 19, 2012. Venue Info: Discounted parking is available for Lookingglass patrons at both the nearby John Hancock Center and Olympia Centre Self Park (161 E. Chicago Avenue).
Saturday, February 18, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
LookingGlass Theatre
821 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 337-0665.
For more info visit lookingglasstheatre.org. Ameriville
Theater
4pm Saturday Matinee.
To-Do!: by Universes
developed with and directed by Artistic Director Chay Yew
Using Hurricane Katrina as a jumping off point, Ameriville is a highly entertaining performance piece fusing hip-hop, poetry, fl amenco, standup comedy, music and spoken word. Universes weaves this electrifying 90-minute theatrical exploration of race, class, poverty, immigration and political awareness into a great adventure about what it means to be American.
Universes is a New York-based American ensemble company of… Price: $20-50. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 - February 26, 2012.
Saturday, February 18, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Victory Gardens Biograph Theater
2433 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 871-3000.
For more info visit www.victorygardens.org. A Lesson Before Dying
Theater
2pm Saturday matinee.
To-Do!: Bayonne, Louisiana, 1948 – Jefferson is a young black man sentenced to die for a crime he did not commit. Grant Wiggins is a local black teacher indebted to those who sent him to college. When Wiggins is enlisted to teach Jefferson to face his death with dignity, both men must re-examine what it means to be a human being. Based on the novel by Ernest J. Gaines.
A 1996 article in the New York Times described Romulus Linney as “America’s bravest playwright” because of the ambitious scope of his work, which… Miscellaneous Info: On February 18th at 2pm, see A Lesson Before Dying and enjoy A Taste of New Orleans Buffet at the post-matinee fundraiser. Price: $15; 2/18 Fundraiser, $50. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: February 3 - February 25, 2012. Venue Info: Click here for important parking information.
Saturday, February 18, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Lincoln Square Theatre
4754 N. Leavitt Street
Chicago, Il 60625.
For more info visit lincolnsquaretheatre.org. Black Pearl Sings! (Closing Weekend)
Theater
2:30pm Matinee.
To-Do!: A powerful new play featuring Northlight favorite E. Faye Butler!
by Frank Higgins
Highlighted by beautiful, a cappella renditions of little known American folk songs, this play tells the Depression-era story of two extraordinary women: a gifted singer stuck in a Texas prison and the Library of Congress song collector who is determined to introduce her silky voice and steely spirit to the world. Price: $25-60. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 13 - February 19, 2012.
Saturday, February 18, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Northlight Theatre
9501 Skokie Boulevard
Skokie, IL 60077
(847) 673-6300.
For more info visit www.northlight.org. Invisible Man (Closing Week)
Theater
3pm Matinee.
To-Do!: “I am an invisible man.” In this world premiere stage production, the first authorized by The Ralph and Fanny Ellison Charitable Trust, a landmark American novel comes to life. Ralph Ellison’s classic story of a young African American’s search for his identity blazes with luminous theatricality and truth. Adapted by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Oren Jacoby, Invisible Man marks the first Chicago appearance by award-winning New York City director Christopher McElroen, a co-founder of the Classical Theatre of… Soleil's Take: Court Theatre did a great job on bringing Ellison's novel to the stage! Check out C. Dixon Freeman's Review! Price: $45-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 12 – February 19, 2012.
Saturday, February 18, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:30 PM.
Court Theatre
5535 S. Ellis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637
(773) 753-4472.
For more info visit www.courttheatre.org. Race (Closing Week)
Theater
2pm Matinee.
To-Do!: Race begins as a crime mystery, as two high-profile lawyers—Henry (Geoffrey Owens) who is black, and Jack (Marc Grapey) who is white—are called to defend a wealthy white client Charles (Patrick Clear) who is charged with the rape of an African American woman. The client admits that he was intimate with his accuser but vehemently denies the charges of rape, insisting that the sex was consensual and that he and the woman were in love. As the two lawyers mull over the potential pitfalls in accepting the case—a… Price: $25-89. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 14 - February 19, 2012. Venue Info: Don't be fooled into parking across from the theater on Dearborn! Validated parking is available in the lot on Lake Street, between Clark and Dearborn.
Saturday, February 18, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Goodman Theatre
170 North Dearborn Street
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 443-3800.
For more info visit www.goodmantheatre.org. Sweet Home
Theater
To-Do!: Written By: Keith Josef Adkins
Directed By: Kimberly Crutcher
Strange things are happening in Sweet Home. A once thriving black town, it is now an urban wasteland with a peculiar problem: all the black boys are missing. When Demus, a quirky young genetic engineer, stumbles into Sweet Home seeking refuge, he quickly finds himself tangled in the bizarre mystery. He also must make a choice—become the next missing black boy, or engineer the perfect indestructible black boy and save Sweet Home forever. Price: $21-23. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 – March 11, 2012. Venue Info: Late seating is awkward here, so be on time! www.GreenhouseTheater.org.
Saturday, February 18, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Greenhouse Theater Center
2257 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 404-7336.
For more info visit www.mpaact.org. The Jackie Wilson Story
Theater
To-Do!: The Jackie Wilson Story was first produced in 2000 and was an immediate smash hit. The highly popular national tour was launched in 2002, and culminated at the famous Apollo Theater in New York City, running a record of the most performances of a stage play at this historical New York City landmark. This contagious production chronicles the rise and fall of the admired musician and performer. Slightly different than the original version, the show will still include many of Wilson’s hits such as (Your Love… Price: $55-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: November 18, 2011 – March 18, 2012.
Saturday, February 18, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center
4450 N. Clark Street
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 769-4451.
For more info visit www.blackensembletheater.org. The Legend of Buster Neal
Theater
To-Do!: By Jackie Alexander
Directed by Kemati J Porter
In “The Legend of Buster Neal,” a fearless civil rights activist reappears 60 years after his supposed death to face his greatest challenge, his great- great grandson, a 16 year old lured by the streets. Price: $30; Thursdays, $20. Other Times To-Do It: January 12 – March 4, 2012.
Saturday, February 18, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
eta Creative Arts Foundation
7558 South South Chicago Avenue
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 752-3955.
For more info visit www.etacreativearts.org. Black Creativity: Powerful African-Americans In Energy
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: Learn about different sources of energy—how they work and the impact each has—as you play a highly interactive game of miniature golf. Play your way through the energy landscape of choices like oil, natural gas, wind, solar, hydroelectric and nuclear power. Just as golfers keep score, you keep a running tally of what you've learned at each hole. The final hole is your chance to "putt the vote" and have your say on the best choice for our energy future.
And speaking of the future, this Black Creativity… Price: Adults/Children, $15/10; Chicago Adults/Children, $13/9. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 25 - April 15, 2012.
Sunday, February 19, 2012, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM.
Museum of Science and Industry
5700 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 684-1414.
For more info visit www.msichicago.org. Chicago Auto Show
Fitness/Athletic/Sporting
To-Do!: First staged in 1901, the Chicago Auto Show is the largest auto show in North America. The Chicago Auto Show utilizes more than 1 million square feet of the McCormick Place complex. McCormick Place offers a total of 2.7 million square feet of exhibit halls with an additional 700,000 square feet of meeting room availability. Price: Adults, $11; Seniors and Children 7-12, $7. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: February 10-19, 2012.
Sunday, February 19, 2012, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
McCormick Place
Lakeside Center
2301 S. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.chicagoautoshow.com. MCA Screen: David Hartt's "Stray Light"
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: David Hartt’s project Stray Light inaugurates a new series of media-based exhibitions at the MCA called MCA Screen. Hartt, a Chicago-based Canadian artist, has been working with photographs for many years, attracted to the social, cultural, political, and economic complexities of the subjects he captures, rendering them with a cool, dispassionate eye. Stray Light includes a film displayed in a room carpeted in the style of his subject, the Johnson Publishing Company building in Chicago, as well as a group… Price: $12; Children 12 and Under, Free! Other Times To-Do It: November 26, 2011 - April 29, 2012. Image Credit: David Hartt. Lounge, 2011.
Sunday, February 19, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 East Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 280-2660.
For more info visit mcachicago.org. Spread the Word! The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: This exhibition developed by The DuSable Museum celebrates the rich history and contributions to Gospel Music and is centered primarily on gospel’s Chicago origins. With Chicago being the “home” of Gospel, Spread the Word!: The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World, recognizes some of the greatest Gospel singers of all time, included are legends such as: Mahalia Jackson, Albertina Walker, Thomas Dorsey, James Cleveland, Sallie Martin and many others. Legendary Chicago choirs, such as Reverend Milton… Price: $10; Students & Seniors, $7; Children 6-11, $3; Children Under 5, Free! Other Times To-Do It: September 20, 2011 - May 20, 2012.
Sunday, February 19, 2012, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
DuSable Museum
740 East 56th Place
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 947-0600.
For more info visit www.dusablemuseum.org. Race (Closing Week)
Theater
To-Do!: Race begins as a crime mystery, as two high-profile lawyers—Henry (Geoffrey Owens) who is black, and Jack (Marc Grapey) who is white—are called to defend a wealthy white client Charles (Patrick Clear) who is charged with the rape of an African American woman. The client admits that he was intimate with his accuser but vehemently denies the charges of rape, insisting that the sex was consensual and that he and the woman were in love. As the two lawyers mull over the potential pitfalls in accepting the case—a… Price: $25-89. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 14 - February 19, 2012. Venue Info: Don't be fooled into parking across from the theater on Dearborn! Validated parking is available in the lot on Lake Street, between Clark and Dearborn.
Sunday, February 19, 2012, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
Goodman Theatre
170 North Dearborn Street
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 443-3800.
For more info visit www.goodmantheatre.org. Black Pearl Sings! (Closing Weekend)
Theater
To-Do!: A powerful new play featuring Northlight favorite E. Faye Butler!
by Frank Higgins
Highlighted by beautiful, a cappella renditions of little known American folk songs, this play tells the Depression-era story of two extraordinary women: a gifted singer stuck in a Texas prison and the Library of Congress song collector who is determined to introduce her silky voice and steely spirit to the world. Price: $25-60. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 13 - February 19, 2012.
Sunday, February 19, 2012, 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM.
Northlight Theatre
9501 Skokie Boulevard
Skokie, IL 60077
(847) 673-6300.
For more info visit www.northlight.org. Ameriville
Theater
4pm Saturday Matinee.
To-Do!: by Universes
developed with and directed by Artistic Director Chay Yew
Using Hurricane Katrina as a jumping off point, Ameriville is a highly entertaining performance piece fusing hip-hop, poetry, fl amenco, standup comedy, music and spoken word. Universes weaves this electrifying 90-minute theatrical exploration of race, class, poverty, immigration and political awareness into a great adventure about what it means to be American.
Universes is a New York-based American ensemble company of… Price: $20-50. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 - February 26, 2012.
Sunday, February 19, 2012, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Victory Gardens Biograph Theater
2433 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 871-3000.
For more info visit www.victorygardens.org. Sweet Home
Theater
To-Do!: Written By: Keith Josef Adkins
Directed By: Kimberly Crutcher
Strange things are happening in Sweet Home. A once thriving black town, it is now an urban wasteland with a peculiar problem: all the black boys are missing. When Demus, a quirky young genetic engineer, stumbles into Sweet Home seeking refuge, he quickly finds himself tangled in the bizarre mystery. He also must make a choice—become the next missing black boy, or engineer the perfect indestructible black boy and save Sweet Home forever. Price: $21-23. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 – March 11, 2012. Venue Info: Late seating is awkward here, so be on time! www.GreenhouseTheater.org.
Sunday, February 19, 2012, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Greenhouse Theater Center
2257 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 404-7336.
For more info visit www.mpaact.org. The Jackie Wilson Story
Theater
To-Do!: The Jackie Wilson Story was first produced in 2000 and was an immediate smash hit. The highly popular national tour was launched in 2002, and culminated at the famous Apollo Theater in New York City, running a record of the most performances of a stage play at this historical New York City landmark. This contagious production chronicles the rise and fall of the admired musician and performer. Slightly different than the original version, the show will still include many of Wilson’s hits such as (Your Love… Price: $55-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: November 18, 2011 – March 18, 2012.
Sunday, February 19, 2012, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center
4450 N. Clark Street
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 769-4451.
For more info visit www.blackensembletheater.org. Baseball Music: The Sweetest Sound
Theater
To-Do!: Written By Sati Word
Directed By Marie Cisco
Buck O’Neil was a true ambassador of baseball. An athletic, soft handed first baseman and longtime manager of the Kansas City Monarchs, a talented scout eying young stars from Billy Williams, Oscar Gamble and Ernie Banks for the Chicago Cubs to Bo Jackson for the Kansas City Royals and the Major League’s first black coach. As the driving force behind the Negro League Hall of Fame on the corner of 18th and Vine in Kansas City, Buck O’Neil was the last to tell… Price: $12. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: Sundays, February 12 – March 4, 2012. Venue Info: Late seating is awkward here, so be on time! www.GreenhouseTheater.org.
Sunday, February 19, 2012, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Greenhouse Theater Center
2257 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 404-7336.
For more info visit www.mpaact.org. Sunday Jazz, f/ TBD
Live Music
To-Do!: This To-Do will be updated as information becomes available. Choose "Notify me of changes" on the Other Event Actions pulldown menu to receive automatic e-mail or mobile text updates about this To-Do! Miscellaneous Info: Founded by James W. Wagner, the Hyde Park Jazz Society is committed to the encouragement, promotion, and expansion of jazz performance in the greater Hyde Park community and mid-south side, as well as to the education of young jazz musicians and expansion of the jazz listening audience. Price: $10; Students, $5. Other Times To-Do It: Sundays - View the entire schedule!
Sunday, February 19, 2012, 7:30 PM – 11:30 PM.
Room 43
1043 E 43rd St
Chicago, IL 60653-3034.
For more info visit www.hydeparkjazzsociety.com. Invisible Man (Closing Week)
Theater
2:30pm Matinee.
To-Do!: “I am an invisible man.” In this world premiere stage production, the first authorized by The Ralph and Fanny Ellison Charitable Trust, a landmark American novel comes to life. Ralph Ellison’s classic story of a young African American’s search for his identity blazes with luminous theatricality and truth. Adapted by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Oren Jacoby, Invisible Man marks the first Chicago appearance by award-winning New York City director Christopher McElroen, a co-founder of the Classical Theatre of… Soleil's Take: Court Theatre did a great job on bringing Ellison's novel to the stage! Check out C. Dixon Freeman's Review! Price: $45-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 12 – February 19, 2012.
Sunday, February 19, 2012, 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM.
Court Theatre
5535 S. Ellis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637
(773) 753-4472.
For more info visit www.courttheatre.org. Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting (Closing Week)
Theater
3pm Matinee on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
To-Do!: Written by Ed Schmidt
Directed by J Nicole Brooks
April 9, 1947
Baseball’s Opening Day is one week away, and Branch Rickey, General Manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, will call up Jackie Robinson to break the color-barrier and play as the Major League’s first black ballplayer. If he does, Robinson will face loud and heated opposition from virtually every owner, manager, and player in baseball – and it won’t be a cakewalk with the fans, either. Who will be his allies if he makes the most daring and… Price: $27.50-68. Discounts: $10 Off any Wednesday, Thursday or Friday performance w/ Discount Code "Soleil". Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 4 - February 19, 2012. Venue Info: Discounted parking is available for Lookingglass patrons at both the nearby John Hancock Center and Olympia Centre Self Park (161 E. Chicago Avenue).
Sunday, February 19, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM.
LookingGlass Theatre
821 N Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 337-0665.
For more info visit lookingglasstheatre.org. The Legend of Buster Neal
Theater
To-Do!: By Jackie Alexander
Directed by Kemati J Porter
In “The Legend of Buster Neal,” a fearless civil rights activist reappears 60 years after his supposed death to face his greatest challenge, his great- great grandson, a 16 year old lured by the streets. Price: $30; Thursdays, $20. Other Times To-Do It: January 12 – March 4, 2012.
Sunday, February 19, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
eta Creative Arts Foundation
7558 South South Chicago Avenue
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 752-3955.
For more info visit www.etacreativearts.org. Black Creativity: Powerful African-Americans In Energy
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: Learn about different sources of energy—how they work and the impact each has—as you play a highly interactive game of miniature golf. Play your way through the energy landscape of choices like oil, natural gas, wind, solar, hydroelectric and nuclear power. Just as golfers keep score, you keep a running tally of what you've learned at each hole. The final hole is your chance to "putt the vote" and have your say on the best choice for our energy future.
And speaking of the future, this Black Creativity… Price: Adults/Children, $15/10; Chicago Adults/Children, $13/9. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 25 - April 15, 2012.
Monday, February 20, 2012, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM.
Museum of Science and Industry
5700 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 684-1414.
For more info visit www.msichicago.org. Black Creativity: Powerful African-Americans In Energy
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: Learn about different sources of energy—how they work and the impact each has—as you play a highly interactive game of miniature golf. Play your way through the energy landscape of choices like oil, natural gas, wind, solar, hydroelectric and nuclear power. Just as golfers keep score, you keep a running tally of what you've learned at each hole. The final hole is your chance to "putt the vote" and have your say on the best choice for our energy future.
And speaking of the future, this Black Creativity… Price: Adults/Children, $15/10; Chicago Adults/Children, $13/9. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 25 - April 15, 2012.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM.
Museum of Science and Industry
5700 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 684-1414.
For more info visit www.msichicago.org. MCA Screen: David Hartt's "Stray Light"
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: David Hartt’s project Stray Light inaugurates a new series of media-based exhibitions at the MCA called MCA Screen. Hartt, a Chicago-based Canadian artist, has been working with photographs for many years, attracted to the social, cultural, political, and economic complexities of the subjects he captures, rendering them with a cool, dispassionate eye. Stray Light includes a film displayed in a room carpeted in the style of his subject, the Johnson Publishing Company building in Chicago, as well as a group… Price: Free! Other Times To-Do It: November 26, 2011 - April 29, 2012. Image Credit: David Hartt. Lounge, 2011.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 East Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 280-2660.
For more info visit mcachicago.org. Spread the Word! The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: This exhibition developed by The DuSable Museum celebrates the rich history and contributions to Gospel Music and is centered primarily on gospel’s Chicago origins. With Chicago being the “home” of Gospel, Spread the Word!: The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World, recognizes some of the greatest Gospel singers of all time, included are legends such as: Mahalia Jackson, Albertina Walker, Thomas Dorsey, James Cleveland, Sallie Martin and many others. Legendary Chicago choirs, such as Reverend Milton… Price: $10; Students & Seniors, $7; Children 6-11, $3; Children Under 5, Free! Other Times To-Do It: September 20, 2011 - May 20, 2012.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
DuSable Museum
740 East 56th Place
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 947-0600.
For more info visit www.dusablemuseum.org. Ameriville
Theater
4pm Saturday Matinee.
To-Do!: by Universes
developed with and directed by Artistic Director Chay Yew
Using Hurricane Katrina as a jumping off point, Ameriville is a highly entertaining performance piece fusing hip-hop, poetry, fl amenco, standup comedy, music and spoken word. Universes weaves this electrifying 90-minute theatrical exploration of race, class, poverty, immigration and political awareness into a great adventure about what it means to be American.
Universes is a New York-based American ensemble company of… Price: $20-50. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 - February 26, 2012.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Victory Gardens Biograph Theater
2433 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 871-3000.
For more info visit www.victorygardens.org. Black Creativity: Powerful African-Americans In Energy
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: Learn about different sources of energy—how they work and the impact each has—as you play a highly interactive game of miniature golf. Play your way through the energy landscape of choices like oil, natural gas, wind, solar, hydroelectric and nuclear power. Just as golfers keep score, you keep a running tally of what you've learned at each hole. The final hole is your chance to "putt the vote" and have your say on the best choice for our energy future.
And speaking of the future, this Black Creativity… Price: Adults/Children, $15/10; Chicago Adults/Children, $13/9. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 25 - April 15, 2012.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM.
Museum of Science and Industry
5700 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 684-1414.
For more info visit www.msichicago.org. MCA Screen: David Hartt's "Stray Light"
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: David Hartt’s project Stray Light inaugurates a new series of media-based exhibitions at the MCA called MCA Screen. Hartt, a Chicago-based Canadian artist, has been working with photographs for many years, attracted to the social, cultural, political, and economic complexities of the subjects he captures, rendering them with a cool, dispassionate eye. Stray Light includes a film displayed in a room carpeted in the style of his subject, the Johnson Publishing Company building in Chicago, as well as a group… Price: $12; Children 12 and Under, Free! Other Times To-Do It: November 26, 2011 - April 29, 2012. Image Credit: David Hartt. Lounge, 2011.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 East Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 280-2660.
For more info visit mcachicago.org. Spread the Word! The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: This exhibition developed by The DuSable Museum celebrates the rich history and contributions to Gospel Music and is centered primarily on gospel’s Chicago origins. With Chicago being the “home” of Gospel, Spread the Word!: The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World, recognizes some of the greatest Gospel singers of all time, included are legends such as: Mahalia Jackson, Albertina Walker, Thomas Dorsey, James Cleveland, Sallie Martin and many others. Legendary Chicago choirs, such as Reverend Milton… Price: $10; Students & Seniors, $7; Children 6-11, $3; Children Under 5, Free! Other Times To-Do It: September 20, 2011 - May 20, 2012.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
DuSable Museum
740 East 56th Place
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 947-0600.
For more info visit www.dusablemuseum.org. Jazz'n On the South Side: TBD
Live Music
To-Do!: Groove to the smooth jazz vibes of a different featured artist each Wednesday night! Food and cash bar available.
This To-Do will be updated as information becomes available. Choose "Notify me of changes" on the Other Event Action toolbar menu to receive automatic e-mail or mobile text updates about this To-Do! Price: $10. Other Times To-Do It: Wednesdays.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
eta Creative Arts Foundation
7558 S South Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60619
(773) 752-3955.
For more info visit www.facebook.com. Ameriville
Theater
4pm Saturday Matinee.
To-Do!: by Universes
developed with and directed by Artistic Director Chay Yew
Using Hurricane Katrina as a jumping off point, Ameriville is a highly entertaining performance piece fusing hip-hop, poetry, fl amenco, standup comedy, music and spoken word. Universes weaves this electrifying 90-minute theatrical exploration of race, class, poverty, immigration and political awareness into a great adventure about what it means to be American.
Universes is a New York-based American ensemble company of… Price: $20-50. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 - February 26, 2012.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Victory Gardens Biograph Theater
2433 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 871-3000.
For more info visit www.victorygardens.org. The Jackie Wilson Story
Theater
To-Do!: The Jackie Wilson Story was first produced in 2000 and was an immediate smash hit. The highly popular national tour was launched in 2002, and culminated at the famous Apollo Theater in New York City, running a record of the most performances of a stage play at this historical New York City landmark. This contagious production chronicles the rise and fall of the admired musician and performer. Slightly different than the original version, the show will still include many of Wilson’s hits such as (Your Love… Price: $55-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: November 18, 2011 – March 18, 2012.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center
4450 N. Clark Street
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 769-4451.
For more info visit www.blackensembletheater.org. World Music Wednesdays: Raul Fernandez's "Paseo Jarocho"
Live Music
To-Do!: Paseo Jarocho, arrangements of sones jarochos, from southern Veracruz, Mexico, weave together Indigenous-Mexican, Spanish, Arabic, and Afro-Caribbean musical styles to explore shared historical roots of these centuries-old traditions.
Son del Viento Chicago jarocho ensemble collaborates with Aztec conchero dancers, and musicians of the Middle-eastern oud, nuevo flamenco, Mexican huasteca, Venezuelan joropo, Afro-carribean and West African traditions to tell stories of musical diaspora through varied rhyt… Miscellaneous Info: World Music Wednesdays is a free community series that explores the rich diversity that exists in the Chicago community and runs year round (47 Wednesdays). World Music Wednesdays will present music, dance and culture of Africa, Europe, Asia, The Middle East and The Americas. Tickets are free, but reservations are strongly recommended. Call us at (773) 728-6000 to secure your seats! Price: Suggested Donation, $5. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Venue Info: What a stimulating facility this is! The energy is palpable before you even reach the door. Old Town School offers a very diverse range of performances in a family-friendly environment. Seating in the main theater (the Concert Hall) manages intimacy, despite its large capacity. First floor seating offers both cabaret- and auditorium-style seating. Even in the second floor balcony, you’ll be right in the thick of the action. Food and beverages are available for sale – and can be taken into the theater!…
Wednesday, February 22, 2012, 8:30 PM – 11:00 PM.
Old Town School of Folk Music
4544 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 728-6000.
For more info visit www.oldtownschool.org. Black Creativity: Powerful African-Americans In Energy
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: Learn about different sources of energy—how they work and the impact each has—as you play a highly interactive game of miniature golf. Play your way through the energy landscape of choices like oil, natural gas, wind, solar, hydroelectric and nuclear power. Just as golfers keep score, you keep a running tally of what you've learned at each hole. The final hole is your chance to "putt the vote" and have your say on the best choice for our energy future.
And speaking of the future, this Black Creativity… Price: Adults/Children, $15/10; Chicago Adults/Children, $13/9. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 25 - April 15, 2012.
Thursday, February 23, 2012, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM.
Museum of Science and Industry
5700 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 684-1414.
For more info visit www.msichicago.org. MCA Screen: David Hartt's "Stray Light"
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: David Hartt’s project Stray Light inaugurates a new series of media-based exhibitions at the MCA called MCA Screen. Hartt, a Chicago-based Canadian artist, has been working with photographs for many years, attracted to the social, cultural, political, and economic complexities of the subjects he captures, rendering them with a cool, dispassionate eye. Stray Light includes a film displayed in a room carpeted in the style of his subject, the Johnson Publishing Company building in Chicago, as well as a group… Price: $12; Children 12 and Under, Free! Other Times To-Do It: November 26, 2011 - April 29, 2012. Image Credit: David Hartt. Lounge, 2011.
Thursday, February 23, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 East Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 280-2660.
For more info visit mcachicago.org. Spread the Word! The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World
Art/Exhibit
To-Do!: This exhibition developed by The DuSable Museum celebrates the rich history and contributions to Gospel Music and is centered primarily on gospel’s Chicago origins. With Chicago being the “home” of Gospel, Spread the Word!: The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World, recognizes some of the greatest Gospel singers of all time, included are legends such as: Mahalia Jackson, Albertina Walker, Thomas Dorsey, James Cleveland, Sallie Martin and many others. Legendary Chicago choirs, such as Reverend Milton… Price: $10; Students & Seniors, $7; Children 6-11, $3; Children Under 5, Free! Other Times To-Do It: September 20, 2011 - May 20, 2012.
Thursday, February 23, 2012, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
DuSable Museum
740 East 56th Place
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 947-0600.
For more info visit www.dusablemuseum.org. Woke Up Black
Film
To-Do!: Woke Up Black
For two years, producer and director Mary Morten and associate producers Keisha Farmer-Smith, Aparna Sharma, and Marisol Ybarra followed five youth from the Chicago area to explore their experiences when it comes to navigating the world they live in. As they move through their personal challenges this documentary also mirrors the complexities of this often ignored group that are at the center of many socio-political issues including discrimination, political participation, sex and relationshi… Soleil's Take: View more Honoring Our Past dates! Miscellaneous Info: HONORING OUR PAST AND EMPOWERING OUR FUTURE FILM FESTIVAL
The Chicago Urban League celebrates Black History Month by presenting a series of documentaries that will educate, empower and inspire. The series includes a tribute to the life and legacy of an unsung hero of the Civil Rights Movement, an intimate portrait of five Chicago teens, and the moving story of community activists who tackle violence head-on. The films and conversations that follow the screenings will give audiences an opportunity to honor… Price: Free! Ticket Link: RSVP Today! Other Times To-Do It: February 7, 9, 23 and 27, 2012.
Thursday, February 23, 2012, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM.
Chicago Urban League
4510 S. Michigan Avenue
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 285-5800.
For more info visit www.thechicagourbanleague.org. World Kitchen: Indian Food by Special Request
Food & Wine
To-Do!: Learn why Indian food is one of the best go-to cuisines for diners looking to avoid meat, dairy, or gluten. Anupy Singla is author of The Indian Slow Cooker, and her newest book focuses on vegan Indian cooking. Whether or not you have special dietary preferences, we’re sure you will love these delicious meat, dairy, and gluten-free recipes. Soleil's Take: These classes sell out quickly, so don't snooze on it! Registration required. View the entire schedule! Miscellaneous Info: Classes begin promptly and preregistration is required. Please wear appropriate clothing and non-skid shoes; bring an apron if desired.
WORLD KITCHEN
Explore Chicago's diverse cultural heritage through ethnic cuisines and focus on culinary skills and techniques in our state-of-the-art World Kitchen facility. World Kitchen offers opportunities to experience the true pleasures of food as nourishment for the body as well as art for the soul. Food industry professionals share their expertise with students… Price: $30. Ticket Link: Register Now! Other Times To-Do It: Varied Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, January 21 - Mar 31, 2012.
Thursday, February 23, 2012, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Gallery 37 Center for the Arts
66 E. Randolph St.
Chicago, Illinois.
For more info visit www.chicagoworldkitchen.org. Charette Workshop - Bronzeville Artist Lofts
Community Development
To-Do!: All interested artists are cordially invited to attend a charrette to discuss the Bronzeville Artist Lofts development. Revere Properties Development has been selected by Mercy Portfolio Services for the redevelopment of the property at 436-42 East 47th Street, located across the street from the Harold Washington Cultural Center. The project is one of the first affordable artist live-work spaces on Chicago's south side. The development is targeted for completion in the summer of 2013. As part of our comm… Ticket Link: RSVP Today.
Thursday, February 23, 2012, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
Chicago Cultural Center - 5th Floor
78 East Washington Street
Chicago, Illinois 60602
(312) 744-6630.
For more info visit revereproperties.com. Afro Latino Live Series
Live Music
Doors open at 5pm.
To-Do!: African Diasporic Music from Latin America. Miscellaneous Info: Rumba Super Club in association with Sound Culture launch what will be the city's only dedicated night to exploring African diasporic music in Latin America right here in Chicago. The cultural and musical influence of Africa on Latin America through colonization and slavery is undeniable. Latin America's most popular forms of music such as Salsa, Rumba, Bomba Plena, Samba, Punta Rock, Cumbia and Son Jarocho have direct African ties and are a mixture of various cultural influences over time. Join us as we c… Price: $12; Advance, $8. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays.
Thursday, February 23, 2012, 7:30 PM – 11:00 PM.
Rumba
351 West Hubbard Street
Chicago, Illinois
(312) 222-1226.
For more info visit www.soundculturechicago.com. Ameriville
Theater
4pm Saturday Matinee.
To-Do!: by Universes
developed with and directed by Artistic Director Chay Yew
Using Hurricane Katrina as a jumping off point, Ameriville is a highly entertaining performance piece fusing hip-hop, poetry, fl amenco, standup comedy, music and spoken word. Universes weaves this electrifying 90-minute theatrical exploration of race, class, poverty, immigration and political awareness into a great adventure about what it means to be American.
Universes is a New York-based American ensemble company of… Price: $20-50. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 - February 26, 2012.
Thursday, February 23, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Victory Gardens Biograph Theater
2433 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 871-3000.
For more info visit www.victorygardens.org. The Jackie Wilson Story
Theater
To-Do!: The Jackie Wilson Story was first produced in 2000 and was an immediate smash hit. The highly popular national tour was launched in 2002, and culminated at the famous Apollo Theater in New York City, running a record of the most performances of a stage play at this historical New York City landmark. This contagious production chronicles the rise and fall of the admired musician and performer. Slightly different than the original version, the show will still include many of Wilson’s hits such as (Your Love… Price: $55-65. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: November 18, 2011 – March 18, 2012.
Thursday, February 23, 2012, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM.
Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center
4450 N. Clark Street
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 769-4451.
For more info visit www.blackensembletheater.org. Sweet Home
Theater
To-Do!: Written By: Keith Josef Adkins
Directed By: Kimberly Crutcher
Strange things are happening in Sweet Home. A once thriving black town, it is now an urban wasteland with a peculiar problem: all the black boys are missing. When Demus, a quirky young genetic engineer, stumbles into Sweet Home seeking refuge, he quickly finds himself tangled in the bizarre mystery. He also must make a choice—become the next missing black boy, or engineer the perfect indestructible black boy and save Sweet Home forever. Price: $21-23. Ticket Link: Purchase Tickets! Other Times To-Do It: January 27 – March 11, 2012. Venue Info: Late seating is awkward here, so be on time! www.GreenhouseTheater.org.
Thursday, February 23, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
Greenhouse Theater Center
2257 North Lincoln
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 404-7336.
For more info visit www.mpaact.org. The Legend of Buster Neal
Theater
To-Do!: By Jackie Alexander
Directed by Kemati J Porter
In “The Legend of Buster Neal,” a fearless civil rights activist reappears 60 years after his supposed death to face his greatest challenge, his great- great grandson, a 16 year old lured by the streets. Price: $30; Thursdays, $20. Other Times To-Do It: January 12 – March 4, 2012.
Thursday, February 23, 2012, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
eta Creative Arts Foundation
7558 South South Chicago Avenue
Chicago, Illinois
(773) 752-3955.
For more info visit www.etacreativearts.org.