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Chris Nowinski is a former football player at Harvard University and professional wrestler with WWE, World Wrestling Entertainment. After enduring a career-ending head injury, Chris has dedicated his professional life to serving patients and families affected by brain trauma, particularly Chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or CTE, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that develops after repeated head injuries. Jay and Chris discuss the state of head injuries in American athletics, the difference between advocating for head safety at youth and professional levels, Chris’ newest research, and much more. Episode Chapters (00:00) Intro (00:50) changes in the culture around concussions in the past two decades (02:39) padded helmet technology (03:55) concussion reporting in the NFL (10:35) Chris’ career path and concussion history (14:52) connecting with activists who haven’t themselves suffered a traumatic brain injury (17:42) SHAAKE - a new sign to identify concussions (20:53) Unions can help players advocate for safety policies (23:10) final thoughts and goodbye For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/…
Paul Lisnek Behind the Curtain on WGN Plus from WGN Radio in Chicago
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGkDkQwZql0?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] In this new podcast, several cast members join in a discussion of this 2022 Pulitzer Prize winning play. Based on (or perhaps paying tribute to) Shakespeare’s Hamlet, the characters ar…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SsdUuNESSJQ?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] In this new podcast, the worlds of history, theater and politics collide in a powerful drama called: “Debate: Baldwin vs. Buckley.” On February 18th, 1965, American author, orator and …
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pBXteqXsrk?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] In this new podcast, you meet some family members who live in the Fun Home! Fun Home is shorthand for funeral home but that’s just the setting for a family who face relationship challe…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yb2YpTVgTOo?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Lookingglass Theatre is truly one of Chicago’s most unique theater companies. Their work is original and inventive and their location is actually inside the historic pumping station at…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQc1N3YsJQA?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Who doesn’t love magic? And now, a bright, young talent takes the main stage every Wednesday evening at 7pm through March 26th. “Static Magic” is his new show developed especially for …
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Broadway Superstar Jessie Mueller at the Studebaker Theater for concert and conversation with Seth Rudetsky February 15th at 7:30pm
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aV7yxb_7xC8?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] New Podcast: You will love this in-depth chat with Chicago’s Very Own, Tony Award winning and Broadway’s own: Jessie Mueller! She created the role of Carol King in Beautiful, appeared …
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TV Show Sugar Highs: Three roommates just try to make rent; PLUS, series star Scott Thompson (Kids in the Hall) on new Music Album
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xsz1Ksg2S-4?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] How will 3 young roommates living in San Francisco pay the rent when they don’t make any money? They have to get creative! Exploring means of finding income, they realize they can do v…
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‘St. Denis Medical’ Star Mekki Leeper comes to Den Theatre for 2 Shows ONE Night Only: February 8th
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5mO8HjTDxG0?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Mekki Leeper is a stand-up comedian who you likely know from his current role as young Matt on the new show St. Denis Medical (from the writers of The Office), and from his role as Noa…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9Pq9DZ7XOw?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] In this new podcast, Paul chats with communications expert Michael Chad Hoeppner about his new book, “Don’t Say Um: How to Communicate Effectively to Live a Better Life.” In this age o…
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Recent Posts Paul Lisnek Behind the Curtain Fat Ham keeps you laughing at the Goodman Theatre .cls-7{fill:#fff;fill-rule:evenodd} Debate: Baldwin vs. Buckley plays through March 2nd .cls-7{fill:#fff;fill-rule:evenodd} Fun Home plays at Porchlight Music Theatre through March 2nd only! .cls-7{fill:#fff;fill-rule:evenodd} Lookingglass Theatre is back;…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=esJU85M1JDk?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] The relationship between First Daughter Patti Davis and her parents, President Ronald Reagan and mom Nancy Reagan, was strained to say the least. In her new book, “Dear Mom and Dad: A …
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2ag_LlDlN4?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] In this podcast, Paul sits down with author Mike Thomasto discuss a new biography of Johnny Carson. We learn about the late night legend that was Johnny Carson from the mind of Chicago…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rAtA8cItY0?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] In this new podcast, author Tripp Whetsell discusses his new biography of television legend, Norman Lear. The book, “Norman Lear: His Life and Times”, tells the life story of the man w…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qh_dM8i8KrM?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] On this new podcast, Paul chats with singer/songwriter Rich Schuler whose musical tribute, “Rocky Mountain High Experience, A John Denver Christmas” plays over the holidays from Decemb…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZjFElNoxYsk?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] In this new podcast, Paul chats with performers Corey Mach (who plays William Shakespeare) and Michael Canu (“Romeo”) about the incredibly high energy and fun jukebox musical “& Juliet…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2xpaQQ2jkg?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] In this new podcast, Paul chats with the cast and director of “Falsettos” playing through Dec 15th at the Court Theatre (in cooperation with TimeLine Theatre Company). Set in the late …
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7lj9zsFi3E?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Jared Kirchheimer is a Chicago-based actor, writer, director and producer. Never giving up on his life dream to be a filmmaker, Jared balances a career in civil engineering with his ef…
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‘Yippee Ki Yay’ is a one-man ‘Die Hard’ show unlike any other at Broadway Playhouse until December 15th!
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFYop0Bx9Aw?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Whether you are a Die Hard fan, or you’ve never even heard of the movie, this is one show you don’t want to miss! Yippee Ki Yay (the parody celebration of Die Hard), stars acclaimed wr…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x13C2ffKQh0?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Teatro Zinzanni has played in a few different iterations in an ongoing production at the Cambria Hotel in its marvelously mirrored circus Spiegeltent, but the current show is new, fres…
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Jazz Musician/ Composer/Actor Bryan Eng appearing at Winter’s Jazz Club on December 13th for 2 shows only
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zI3FKrtymL0?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Paul goes behind the curtain with the multi-talented jazz artist Bryan Eng. Bryan grew up on the east coast but found his musical grounding at Northwestern University and Chicago where…
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Meet Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Stars – Part TWO: at Nederlander Theatre through February 1st
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vguGFVuNZIY?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] In Harry Potter and the Cursed Child interview Part One, you met several actors who play the younger generation and supporting cast. In this Part TWO interview, you’ll hear from Harry …
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Author and reporter Greg Pratt takes us inside the Lightfoot years with his new book: ‘The City is Up for Grabs’
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uql7qDpe59A?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Lori Lightfoot swept into the office of Chicago Mayor in a surprisingly decisive victory in 2019, the first African American gay mayor made history. In her four years as Mayor, she fac…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0NQiW5Vkp6c?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Comedian, actress, podcaster, author and many more things…all of which add up to a fun night of stand-up at the Venus Cabaret Theater! Her specials have been on HBO, Comedy Central and…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bv24-d8E_Ss?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Little Shop of Horrors is one of the more fun and popular musicals ever! The story of a man-eating plant is encased in a score of the most memorable musical score ever (by Howard Ashma…
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Great Gatsby Comedy Show (featuring WGN’s Paul Lisnek) November 16th at 7pm at Venus Cabaret – One Night Only!
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMBv96b9U34?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Gatsby is a comedian born in Nigeria, moved to South Africa and then came to America where he settled in Chicago. Here, he has been producing, writing and starring in comedy throughout…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SlVT7V61NL4?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Inherit the Wind is a play written in 1955 about an actual trial which challenged teaching Darwinism in schools. Famously known as the “Scopes Monkey Trial,” (the defendant was John T.…
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New bestselling book: ‘Attack From Within: How Disinformation is Sabotaging America’ by Barbara McQuade
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzWntSMwY6E?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] These days, everyone understands the prevalence and dangers of disinformation and misinformation….but how do these things differ and exactly what are they? More importantly, how is fal…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kBrzZhhoXQ?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] If you are a fan of HBO’s The Gilded Age, then you love its characters including John Adams, played by singer/actor Claybourne Elder. Or, you might be a fan of Clay’s from his many rol…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iO81bFYmQMk?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] In the first of this two-part podcast, Paul goes behind the curtain with the cast of Broadway’s long awaited sensation Harry Potter and the Cursed Child which is finally in Chicago to …
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1kPR_-OuoY?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Jamie Wolf is a hilarious comedian well known on the comedy circuit, especially in New York City where he can be seen at the Comedy Cellar and New York Comedy Club. Now he brings his u…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpjDKeops-s?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Paul goes Behind the Curtain with the cast of The Full Monty currently playing at the Paramount Theatre in Aurora through October 6th. This very fun musical was a hit on Broadway and t…
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A stunning production of Paddy Chayefsky’s ‘Network’ is given fresh life and unique interpretation by Invictus Theatre
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yu2TacZAv8?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Invictus Theatre of Chicago’s production of “Network” is stunning, immersive and unforgettable. Set in the 1970’s, one would think the message of the play has been lost over time or is…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N70fqgho6aE?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Raúl Esparza is an American stage and screen actor, recently starring as “Galileo Galilei” in Galileo in the world-premiere musical at Berkeley Repertory Theatre. Since making his Broa…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iu4EEgaP9lY?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Former Disney star (“Teen Beach Movie” and “Teen Beach 2”) also known for starring in the film ”King Cobra,” and known for his turn in “Hairspray – LIVE” among many other roles. Many h…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KNpWk4Yki3A?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Ken Block is an expert in voter data, a technology entrepreneur, and even a two-time candidate for Governor of Rhode Island. He was hired by the lead attorney for former US president D…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZSl5rYI471U?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Everyone would agree that Whitney Houston left us way too soon. Her voice was incredible and was called by Guiness Book of World records, “the most awarded female artist of all time.” …
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZx9yNxsAro?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Created by Jon Tai and Alex Gruhin and starring Tai, Road Signs is described as a magic show, but that moniker does not do the production justice. It’s magic married to theater, with a…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOSkCchtWh4?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Chicago is home to a new major attraction and experience that is an amazing way to experience this magnificent city! Flyover Chicago is an immersive, multi-sensory attraction which sho…
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Back to the Future takes us back to our memories at the Cadillac Palace Theatre through September 1st
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g0CB11444-k?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] In this new podcast, meet the stars of Back to the Future: the Musical! Classic characters Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox in the movie) is played on stage by Caden Brauch and Doc Brown (p…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHKdV29pv3Q?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Paul goes Behind the Curtain with playwright Stephen Dolginoff who wrote his musical “Thrill Me” in 1994 and presents the long history of the show’s development from then to today in h…
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‘SAVOR After Hours’ brings stars of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Val and Artem and many others to a fabulous Broadway-style review at Broadway Playhouse through August 18th
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TuxstxH9IYs?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] If you are a fan of Dancing with the Stars, this show is for you! If you are NOT a fan of Dancing with the Stars, you are still in for an evening of fun and excitement! Savor After Hou…
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‘The Prom’ is a musical that packs an impactful punch from Highland Park Players through August 25th
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLoh6sJZjuE?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] “The Prom” is a seven-time Tony nominated musical with great music and colorful characters, but the truth is that it has a message to share about tolerance and acceptance. The plot is …
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Stunning ‘Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil’ is a MUST see before Broadway gets it. See it at the Goodman through August 11th
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gw3og-3huYY?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Goodman does it again…..a stellar and stunning world premiere of a new musical that is hands down, going to Broadway! This musical is based on John Berendt’s iconic non-fiction book, a…
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2 Pianos 4 Hands is a concert and a play rolled into one, playing at North Shore Center for Performing Arts through August 11th
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wu700TFRGYc?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] A charming play and concert rolled into one. Two talented wold-be concert pianists trade stories of their pushy parents, eccentric teachers, endless pressures of practice and all under…
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Chicago legends Alexandra Billings and Honey West together again! At Mercury Theater Chicago on August 9th and 10th
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUKIeXARCGM?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Chicago has produced some incredible talents, and ranking near the top are Alexandra Billings and Honey West. Known so well to Chicago audiences and legends in the LGBTQ+ community, th…
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Uptown Music Theater of Highland Park given special permission by Cameron Macintosh to present Les Misérables from July 26-August 11th ONLY
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ZA575ZBbrQ?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] For the decades it has been in existence, the classic and magnificent musical Cameron Macintosh’s Les Misérables has been presented only on Broadway and authorized national tours. But …
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VnYQO-HN-0E?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] In this new podcast, Paul goes behind the curtain with Invictus Theatre Company’s founding artistic director, Charlse Askenaizer, with a look at the mission and plays of this great the…
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[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-ZP8AbBcmU?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Laurie Metcalf is a legend from her work on TV (Roseanne, the Connors), and film (Lady Bird earning an Academy Award nomination), but her heart belongs where it all started: on Stage w…
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‘Zac Efron’ is about a lot more than a movie star! Humor, comedy and message meets to promote AAPI Community
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ub2b4LablJI?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] For whatever reason, society harbors feelings of discrimination against certain communities, one of which is the Asian-American and Pacific Islander community. Token Theatre is a relat…
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Legendary actor Laurence Luckinbill recounts his life and career in ‘Affective Memories: How Chance and the Theater Saved My Life’ [PART TWO]
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DSEcZCauFk?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] The two part podcast continues as actor/Playwright Laurence Luckinbill recounts his life and career (“Boys in the Band,” Star Trek V: the Final Frontier). Nearing 90 and still going st…
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