Winner of the Theodore Ward Prize for African-American Playwriting

Written by: Shepsu Aakhu
Director: Mignon McPherson Nance

On the heels of the governments apology to African-Americans for slavery, the Reparations Movement was born. The movement was successful, checks were written to the descendants of slaves and the seeds for a new America were sown.

Ten Square is one of the cities that emerged in "New America" and the life of the African-American community has been forever altered. We watch Roosevelt, a soldier duty bound to protect the new world order and a resident of Ten Square, negotiate his obligations to his lover, his family and his government.

Featuring: Leonard House, Daryl Charisse, Earl Fox, Eddie Jordan III, Nambi E. Kelley, Carla Stillwell, Andre Teamer, Sati Word

Running: September 25 - November 22, 2009

at Pegasus Players
1145 W. Wilson Ave.
O'Rourke Center, Truman College
Chicago, IL 60640

For tickets visit MPAACT's website:  www.mpaact.org/shows

 

Here's a cool opportunity for jazz lovers to be on the front line and meet fellow jazz lovers!

 

Call For Volunteers! Many of the Jazz Institute's events surrounding the Chicago Jazz Festival require the efforts of volunteers, including the Jazz Club Tour on September 2nd and the Festival itself from September 4th through 6th. As a small non-profit institution we rely on the spirit of volunteerism to help make these events run. All of our volunteers receive some kind of thanks, in the form of tickets, t-shirts, or other incentives as a small token of our appreciation. If you're interested in volunteering, please click here to email our Volunteer coordinator OR fill out this form on our website. Our volunteer coordinator will contact you with our specific needs and to coordinate hours. We thank you in advance for your help!

Thank you for your interest in the Jazz Institute of Chicago.   Sincerely, Dan Melnick

 

 

Food, Inc.

Thursday, August 20, 2009, 6 - 9pm

Healthy Tasting Reception at 6:00 pm, Movie Screening at 7:00 pm, Food, Inc. is an important film that takes an inside look at the business of food, how food is produced today and what it means to our health and the health of our children. Beginning at 6pm, there will be a healthy tasting provided by Soul Vegetarian Caterers & Restaurant and remarks by Chicago Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Terry Mason, host of WVON's Doctor in the House (airs Sunday, 10a-11a) and Dr. Damon Arnold, Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health. Following the film, Dr. Mason will lead a post-film discussion with a panel of experts including: Dr. Rick Kittles, associate professor, University of Chicago; Karriem Beyah, owner/operator, Farmers Best Market; and Frances Guichard, head sanitarian for the Chicago Department of Public Health.

Price: $6

SummerDance: Orchestra Chalgija

Thursday, August 20, 2009, 6 - 9:30pm

The 13th annual Chicago SummerDance Series presents free Oros, Horos, Kolos, and o eks dance lessons by John Kuo & Galia Miloucheva-Kuo of Balkanski Igri and live music by Orchestra Chalgija. Orchestra Chalgija was formed in 2008 by Balkan folk clarinetist Jim Stoynoff. Chalgija is a unique genre within Macedonian Folk Music, representing a 200-year-old blending of traditional Macedonian dance rhythms and vocal themes. It is influenced by Ottoman music and performed on traditional instruments from that era. Stoynoff is joined by vocalist Elena Manovska, formerly of TANEC National Macedonian Folk Ensemble and accompanied by veteran Balkan and Middle-Eastern musicians from the Chicagoland area.

Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays - Sundays, June 11 - August 23

Hot Summer Nights: Bâ-a-bá do Samba

Thursday, August 20, 2009, 6 - 8pm

Bê-a-bá do Samba's musical inspirations are as eclectic, as their group's members, hailing from Brazil, England, and Chicago. Notes of samba, bossa nova, and Latin music will bring out the dancer in everyone.

Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays, June 11 - September 3

Jazzin' at the Shedd: Greg Duncan

Thursday, August 20, 2009, 6 - 10pm

North Terrace: GREG DUNCAN, Trumpet player Greg Duncan has developed one of the best jazz groups in the city since his arrival in 2004. Known for their solid swing feel and edgy groove, the Greg Duncan Quintet released their debut CD in 2007 on the OA2 record label. The recording, Unveiled, received high praise from Chicago Jazz magazine for its hip compositions and solid musicianship. Before coming to Chicago, Duncan was a featured soloist and composer with the Glenn Miller Orchestra. Duncan has a masters degree in music from the well-respected University of North Texas and has studied with John Swana, Joe Magnarelli and Greg Yasinitsky., Rotunda- ALEJANDRO URZAGASTE, Alejandro Urzagaste is working on a new recording due out in November. The recording features Dennis Carroll, George Fludas and Jodie Christian. Alejandro currently teaches at Geoff Benge's Guitar Shop and through the Thelonious Monk Institute. He plays a Hofner Jazzica guitar.

Price: $12; Members, Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays, June 4 through Aug. 27

eta Literary Series: Greenwood, by Herbert G. McCann

Thursday, August 20, 2009, 6 - 8pm

During the Tulsa Race Riot of 1921, the nation's worst act of racial violence, thirty-five square blocks of black-owned homes and businesses were torched by mobs of angry whites. The violence was sparked by an alleged assault of a young white woman by a young black man. In Greenwood, author Herbert G. McCann steps back into the early 20th century and re-imagines history in vivid detail to tell the story of two young lovers who dared to cross the lines of race and class amid the simmering tensions of a power struggle between blacks and whites in a booming Southwestern town.

Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Third Thursdays

Authenticity - First Year Anniversary Celebration

Thursday, August 20, 2009, 6 - 8pm

Authenticity the relationship game celebrates a successful first year with an entertaining reception featuring food entertainment and prize giveaways. Play samples of the game, learn more about why it was created and hear success stories. Vendors of all types can participate in this event. For more information, call (866) 533-9884.

Price: Free!

 

 

Black Harvest: Ballou

Thursday, August 20, 2009, 6:15 - 7:45pm

2008, Michael Patrei, USA, 86 min., Ballou High School is located in the poorest and most crime-ridden section of Washington, D.C., but its celebrated marching band, with 100% graduation rates and top-three finishes in national championships, shows that environment need not be destiny. Big names like Jesse Jackson, Colin Powell, John Lewis, Marion Barry, and Chuck Brown sing the band's praises, but first-time director Patrei keeps the film's focus on the kids themselves and their ability to overcome day-to-day challenges, whether they be untimely death or lack of air-conditioning. DigiBeta video. (MR)

Soleil's Take: View the entire Black Harvest Film Festival Schedule!

Price: $10
Other Times To-Do It: August 7 though September 3

World Class Jazz: Celebrating a Jazz Hero - Fred Anderson's 80th Birthday

Thursday, August 20, 2009, 6:30 - 8:30pm

with the Great Black Music Ensemble, George Lewis, Francis Wong, Ed Wilkerson, Tomeka Reid and Greg Ward contribute arrangements of Fred Anderson's compositions in homage to an important father of Chicago's creative improvised music. AACM Chicago's Great Black Music Ensemble returns to the Pritzker stage to perform their mentor's compositions. Every Made in Chicago: World Class Jazz concert kicks off with aspiring musicians from Chicago-area high schools, as part of the Jazz Institute of Chicago's Jazz Links Educational Program.

Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays, July 30 - September 3, 2009

Organic Groov: Luciano Antonio

Thursday, August 20, 2009, 7pm - 12am

Brazilian guitarist, singer, composer, percussionist, Luciano was born into a musical family on January 3, 1969 in rural Iretama, Parana, Brazil's southern region. From this melodiously rich environment, he learned first how to sing with his mom, Luiza Maria. He further developed his vocal abilities through his maternal grandparents, who performed for local live radio shows and paternal grandparents, who harmonized beautifully. By age 14, he took the violão (acoustic guitar) as a self taught instrument, focusing his repertoire on Brazilian Folk and Bossa Nova (Brazilian Jazz). Luciano has collaborated with many great fellow artists: playing acoustic guitar on John Goldman's 'For All the People', vocals on Matt Geraghty's 'Mozaic', arranging/co-producing, and performing on the recent release 'Samba Mundo' by St. Louis based Samba Bom, serving as lead vocalist and guitarist with the Evanston Orquestra de Samba which connects classical music with Brazilian rhythms and harmonies, and performing throughout the Chicago Jazz scene with the B3 trio and as a soloist. Other recent engagements include opening performances for Caetano Veloso, Vinicius Cantuaria, Virginia Rodrigues, performances for the Chicago Mayor's Office of Special Events, The Democratic Convention of 2004, and several commercial releases throughout the Mid-west. [more]

This To-Do is part of the Illinois Urbana Champaign Black Alumni Network. The festivities continue on the third Thursday of every month!

Price: Free!

New Era In Jazz: The Marqueal Jordan Project

Thursday, August 20, 2009, 8 - 9:30pm

One of the most sought-after vocalists and saxophonists in Chicago, Marqueal grew up in a household where music from his parents' record collection was his first love and it fueled his desire to become a musician. In 2008, Marqueal got his big break when he met Smooth Jazz artist Brian Culbertson. After hearing him play and sing, Brian offered Marqueal a spot in his touring band. As part of Brian Culbertson & The Funk Experience, Marqueal has electrified audiences in the U.S. and abroad, and has performed with Will Downing, Gerald Albright, Earl Klugh, Stevie Wonder, Kenny G., Patti Austin, Lalah Hathaway and Ledisi. With his own band, The Marqueal Jordan Project , Marqueal sees himself as a musician "...humbly trying to carry on the tradition of great instrumentalists and vocalists. Guys like Ray Charles, Donny Hathoway and George Benson It's a challenge to juggle working with other cats and being true to your own vision, but it's time for me to make this happen on my own terms."

Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays

Black Harvest: Black Dynamite

Thursday, August 20, 2009, 8:15 - 9:45pm

Special advance screening! Scott Sanders in person! 2009, Scott Sanders, USA, 90 min. With Michael Jai White, Kym Whitley, "Raucous . . . a vastly entertaining film."-Rob Nelson, Variety, A runaway hit at the Sundance Film Festival, BLACK DYNAMITE mines the best and the worst of the blaxploitation era for a rollicking kick-ass parody of classics including THREE THE HARD WAY, DOLEMITE, and SUPERFLY, with a heaping helping of Bruce Lee thrown in for good measure. With a 44-Magnum, nunchucks, and fists at the ready, babe-magnet Black Dynamite (Jai White), a former CIA agent, ruthlessly works both sides of the law when "The Man" murders his brother, floods orphanages with heroin, and pours tainted malt liquor into the 'hood. 35mm. (BS), Director Scott Sanders will be present on Saturday for audience discussion.

Price: $10

SummerDance: Chicago Catz

Friday, August 21, 2009, 6 - 9:30pm

The 13th annual Chicago SummerDance Series presents free Chicago Bop dance lessons by Dawud Shareef & Lura Satterfield and live music by the Chicago Catz., The Chicago Catz are one of the Windy City's best kept secrets and treasures. For more than twenty-one years, this group of professional musicians has performed at some of the most prestigious private parties and events in Chicago. The Chicago Catz serve up and dish out the hottest "get out of your seat and dance" music in town!

Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays - Sundays, June 11 - August 23

Black Harvest: Pressure Cooker

Friday, August 21, 2009, 6 - 8pm (Also showing August 22 and 25)

Chicago theatrical premiere!
Culinary Arts Program reps in person!
2008, Mark Becker and Jennifer Grausman, USA, 99 min.

"Moving, inspirational and tremendously real without ever turning manipulative or preachy."-Gary Goldstein, Los Angeles Times, Evidence of the life-changing power wielded by a dedicated teacher doesn't come any more real than in PRESSURE COOKER, in which a petite fireball of a Philadelphia culinary arts instructor puts a veritable menu of career choices before inner city students willing to earn their chops chopping veggies to the exacting specifications of a gourmet restaurant. Food is a winning part of the show as teacher Wilma Stephenson, purveyor of the toughest brand of tough love, coaches three of her most promising students to the finish line of a Top Chef-style scholarship competition on which their futures depend. HD-CAM video. (BS) FF, Chicago representatives of Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP) Nicola Copeland, coordinator, and Anthony McPhee, alumnus, will be present on Friday for audience discussion.

Price: $10

Networking Chicago Style

Friday, August 21, 2009, 6 - 10pm

Presented by Chicago's Black Business Network and An Orange Moon With 400 + members - we are here to network. Join us. Bring plenty of business cards., Give a one-minute presentation on your product/service. RSVP early - spaces are limited. Jazz/Food/Beverages

Price: Free!

Historic Bronzeville Art District Third Friday Trolley Tour

Friday, August 21, 2009, 6 - 9pm

Bronzeville is conveniently located on the near south side of Chicago and in recent years, has experienced an explosion in residential and commercial development. Urban professionals are leading the resurgence of the area by renovating historic homes along King Drive and surrounding streets. The renewed interest in this community has had a contagious effect and has given rise to four new art galleries within the last two years along with the South Side Community Art Center. Forming a partnership and working hard to make Chicago a major center of African American art and art of color again, the five Bronzeville art galleries developed the Bronzeville Art District Third Friday Trolley Tour. The Trolley Tour is to introduce, increase awareness, and appreciation of African American, African and Caribbean art and artists to a diverse audience, while preserving the legacy of the rich visual arts and culture of Bronzeville.

Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Third Fridays through October

Friday Evening "Sit & Sip"

Friday, August 21, 2009, 7 - 10pm

Start your weekend by meeting up with friends at WineStyles. Enjoy wine, beer, board games, and more. And don't forget, we're B.Y.O.F. (that's Bring Your Own Food). Live music by Vo starts at 8pm, We're your cheap date night.

Price: Free!

The Experience with The Experience with Ledisi

Friday, August 21, 2009, 7 - 9:30pm

An Interview. A Mini-Performance. A CD Signing., After penning everything herself and solely working with producer Rex Rideout on her 2007, Grammy-nominated Verve Records debut, "Lost And Found," Ledisi has taken a different approach on her follow-up album, "Turn Me Loose.", On the aptly-titled "Turn Me Loose" ("Because I'm free on this album," she says), the Bay area-bred soul singer teamed up with a slew of hand-picked producers/writers, including Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Raphael Saadiq, Chucky Thompson and Rideout, truly exploring new grounds for the singer/songwriter., "I opened myself up to working with other producers, which was really hard for me because I usually like things consistent and in one way -- I love comfort and I don't tend to come out of my zone," says Ledisi. "But I'm so glad I did it. When you work with others, they bring out different things. They remind you that you're not just one way, you're this way and that way too.", On the lead single "Goin' Thru Changes," which she likens to a "sexy Prince-like ballad," she sings about infidelity; "Higher That This," a spiritual song; "I Need Love," which she penned with intentions for R&B singers Chrisette Michele or Leona Lewis; and "Trippin".

Price: $20

Glamorama, featuring Ne-Yo

Friday, August 21, 2009, 8pm - 12am

Grammy award-winning singer and songwriter Ne-Yo will help kick off the annual fashion extravaganza, Macy's Glamorama 2009 at the Chicago Theatre. This fashion show & music event will fuse fashion and music for a unique evening complete with a runway show featuring creative combinations of colors, patterns, textures, shapes and trends. City sophisticate, punk princess and the classic cowboy harmoniously come together for a stylishly chic scene. Ne-Yo, who is known for such hits as So Sick, Closer, Because of You and Miss Independent, will headline the event at the Chicago Theatre. The New Standards and pop sensation, Jadyn Maria, will also be performing. Topping the list of designers:, Marc Jacobs Sonia Rykiel Jean Paul Gaultier PHILOSOPHY di Alberta Ferretti Just Cavalli Sportmax MaxMara CNC Costume National Immediately after the performance & fashion show at the Chicago Theatre, don't miss the annual post-party to follow at Macy's on State St

Tiaybe

Friday, August 21, 2009 and Saturday, August 22, 2009

TIAYBE (Tee-Yah-Bay) Tiaybe is a quiet, multi-faceted chanteuse from Chicago driven to share her eclectic vision of music with the world. Tiaybe eleased her 1st solo Cd project title "Soul Odyssey" featuring hits - Set Free, Moonlight & Stimuli 4 Ur Mind. Tiaybe has shared stages with mainstream artists such as Chico Debarge, Glenn Lewis, Dwele, Kindred, Patti Labelle, Tremaine Hawkins, De La Soul, Geno Young, Carmen Rodgers, Yahzarah & Sy Smith as well as local soul artists - Yaw, Tina Howell, Zzaje, Avery Young, We Hit and many talented others. Tiaybe's musical influences include many great Soul Divas - Minnie Riperton, Chaka Khan, Aretha and Natalie Cole just to name a few. Her unique brand of soul displays multi-genre influences from jazz, gospel, rock, pop, R&B & soul. Helping her along the way to push and develop her own sound was legendary Chicago vocalist coach Lena McLin (who also played a crucial part in helping Khan develop her unique style), Hortense Love, Denize Knox and Larry Robinson. In 2001, Tiaybe joined one of Chicago's forward thinking Neo Soul ensemble - the Soul People. The marriage of Tiaybe's warm, rich, honeyed vocals as lead vocalist to the collective's cohesive grooves, has kept Soul People's name at the forefront of must-see bands in the Windy City and in the neo-soul movement itself

Price: $5
Other Times To-Do It: Friday and Saturday

Black Harvest: 6 Things I Never Told You

Friday, August 21, 2009, 8:30 - 10pm (Also showing August 26)

2007, Rod Gailes, Caran Hartsfield, Stacey Holman, Cinque Northern, James Richards, and Ed Duranté, USA, 90 min.

With Cherise Booth, Renee Monique Brown, Six members of a New York film collective known as The Leagues collaborated on this provocative anthology film, each directing an episode centered on sexual themes and inspired by a random phrase from the Song of Solomon: An estranged husband tries to rekindle the flame with his soon-to-be ex; a neglected wife has a surprising encounter with the cable guy; a black Republican finds true happiness under a stiletto heel; a woman cheats in plain sight on her blind fiancé; a mature woman negotiates with a much younger gigolo; and a couple finds pregnancy complicating their relationship. DigiBeta video. (MR)

Price: $10

Ssaucy Mini Trade & Fashion Show

Saturday, August 22, 2009, 10am - 3pm

Hosted by Sue An and Ssaucy Inc. Please join us for a Mini Trade and Fashion Show on Saturday. Enjoy great vendors and a fabulous fashion show!

CANCELED - Chicago Reggae Festival

Saturday, August 22, 2009, 12 - 10pm

New Roots Productions is sad to report that the Chicago Reggae Festival will be on hiatus in 2009. With the unfortunate state of the economy and lack of sponsor support, a 2009 installment of this great event is impossible. We look forward to bringing you a stellar CRF III line-up in 2010! As always, we're committed to bringing you the best reggae artists in the world, keeping our ticket prices low, and benefitting the global community. Please stay tuned to our websites where we'll post the latest information about any upcoming New Roots events, and feel free to post your events on our CRF message board.

Chicagoland Allstar Classic Game

Saturday, August 22, 2009, 3 - 6pm; Special Performance By: DAY 26 & Musiq Soulchild

Friday, August 21 2009: Teen Empowerment Summit - Malcolm X College (1900 W Van Buren Ave.)

SummerDance: New Millennium Swing Collective

Saturday, August 22, 2009, 6 - 9:30pm

The 13th annual Chicago SummerDance Series presents free jitterbug dance lessons lead by Margot McGraw-Toppen and Riley Wimes Jr. and live music by the New Millennium Swing Collective., This event is part of the 13th annual Chicago SummerDance festival. Chicago SummerDance is an eleven-week festival featuring one-hour dance lessons by professional instructors, followed by two hours of live music and dancing on a open-air dance floor, every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening, 6 to 9:30 pm, and Sunday afternoon, 4 to 7 pm, weather-permitting.

Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays - Sundays, June 11 - August 23

Bell, Biv, Devoe, w/ Jon B

Saturday, August 22, 2009, 7 - 11pm

Miscellaneous Info: Reserved Sections A-D $95, E-F $65, Gen Admission $35 - $55; VIP Tower $150

Other Times To-Do It: Saturdays, June 13 - August 29

Venue Info: I haven't been out to CCHT yet (it is, afterall, in a suburb), but a few questions come immediately to mind: (1) $45-65 is a lot of loot to sit on the lawn - is that grass padded or sumthin'? (2) No outside concessions?!?! That kinda takes the "pic" (i.e., your choice) out of picnic-ing, doesn't it? Will I get out there and find $6 hotdogs and a $17 glass of white zinfandel and a $3 can of RC Cola? (3) How come Ravinia is sooooo much cheaper and let's you bring your own stuff? (4) You can't bring your own chair - you must rent one there? Come on, now - we must be up to $75 already - just to be on the lawn!
More info: www.countryclubhillstheater.org

Black Harvest: If You Love Me

Saturday, August 22, 2009, 8:15 - 10:15pm (Also showing August 27)

Chicago connection Lawrence Lee Wallace in person! 2009, Lawrence Lee Wallace, USA, 113 min. With Michelle Shelton, Richard Reed, Wallace, the Chicago-based writer-director behind the successful live sketch-comedy show Urban Scenze and its video spin-offs, makes the jump from sketches to full-length narrative with this comedy-drama. The action begins on the momentous night when three guys whose relationships are in crisis show up at the home of their supposedly more mature buddy; flashbacks, documentary-like interviews, and a series of outrageous twists provide a ruthlessly funny portrait of black male attitudes toward sex and love. DV-CAM video. (MR), Director Lawrence Lee Wallace will be present for audience discussion at both screenings.

Price: $10

Best of Blax - Late Night Show

Saturday, August 22, 2009, 10pm - 12am

Written by: Kevin Douglas, Inda Craig-Galvan and Carla Stillwell, Directed by: Kevin Douglas and Jonathan Keaton, Pulling from MPAACT's hit productions, Blaxploitation the Remix and Blax 2, You know how we Deux, THE BEST OF BLAX . . . is a collection of original sketch performances that are unabashedly courageous and provocative in their take on race, class, and American politics.

Miscellaneous Info: BYOB!
Price: $10
Other Times To-Do It: Saturdays, August 22 - September 12, 2009

Caribbean Midnight Cruise

Saturday, August 22, 2009, 12 - 3am

Chicago Concerned Jamaicans (CCJ) Invites You To Join Us For A Night of Fun on a Caribbean Midnight Cruise Aboard the Luxurious SPIRIT Of Chicago!, Music by: DJ ONE BLOOD and DJ HOWIE

Miscellaneous Info: Hor D'ouevres . . . Fun . . . Dancing . . . Prizes . . . Cash Bar, Must be 21 - Valid I.D. Required, For Tickets & Info: www.chicagoconcernedjamaicans.org, Hubert Stalling .708-309-8124

Doors Open: Boarding at 12:00 Midnight
Price: $55.00

Pearl Fest 2009 - Celebrating 15 Years of Urban Innovation

Sunday, August 23, 2009, 11am - 10pm

On Sunday, August 23, 2009 Little Black Pearl will honor our 15th Anniversary with an exciting FREE community concert and festival, "Pearl Fest 2009-Celebrating 15 Years of Urban Innovation". This year's Pearl Fest is an opportunity for LBP to highlight the rewarding relationships with our community and corporate partners and to address the social, economic development and health needs of the community. This concert will include performances by: * Nona Hendryx, * Terri Lyne Carrington , * Dianne Reeves

Community Festival: The outdoor community festival is free to the public and will incorporate fun activities for all ages. Special Features during Pearl Fest Include: Merchant and Food Vendors, Health Fair. Community "Faith" Service, Local & Youth Talent Showcase, VIP Tent

Price: Free!

SummerDance: Sam Burckhardt Nonet

Sunday, August 23, 2009, 4 - 7pm

The 13th annual Chicago SummerDance Series presents free foxtrot and jitterbug dance lessons by Nino DiGiulio of MayIHaveThisDance and live music by the Sam Burckhardt Nonet, who brings together influences from jump blues to Thelonious Monk in a lively mix of jazz, blues and swing. The Sam Burckhardt Nonet first played in 1999 and recorded the critically acclaimed Chicago Swing the same year. They have since played at various venues, including Chicago's famous Green Mill. The band features a five-piece horn section; the rhythm section consists of piano, guitar, bass, and drums. The Nonet plays music by Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Horace Silver, and Sonny Rollins, as well as Sam Burckhardt's own compositions.

Price: Free!

Black Harvest: Shorts Program - Sex & Satire

Sunday, August 23, 2009, 5 - 6:30pm (Also showing August 25)

Filmmakers in person!
2007-8, Various directors, USA, 93 min.

A light-hearted program highlighting wit, women, and you-know-what: A poet recalls an unusual lover in Camrin Pitts and Dale Madison's THE PANTY MAN (2008, 6 min.). Addiction dramas get spoofed in Fred Thomas Jr.'s KAI (2008, 14 min.). Husband and wife are recast as Mandingo and mistress in actor-director Gary Anthony Williams' provocative comedy I OWN YOU (2008, 18 min.). Two siblings with divergent attitudes toward marriage clash and bond in Kena Tangi Dorsey's SISTAHS IN THE NAME OF LOVE (2007, 21 min.). The anticipation of her first period turns pubescent Sionne's life into a minefield of mortification in Camille Holder-Brown's A PERIOD PIECE (2007, 17 min.). A low-ranking assistant on a popular TV cop show sees the stereotypes all too clearly in Lenny Payan's PRODUCTION (2008, 18 min.). Various video formats. (MR),

Director Lenny Payan and writer/co-producer Carmen Scott of PRODUCTION will be present for audience discussion on Sunday. Director Camille Holder-Brown of A PERIOD PIECE is tentatively scheduled to be present for discussion at one of the screenings. Snehal Patel, producer of I OWN YOU, will be present for audience discussion on Sunday.

Price: $10

Supa Soul Sunday - Martinis on the Patio

Sunday, August 23, 2009, 8pm - 2am

Black Harvest: Mr. Bones

Monday, August 24, 2009, 8:15 - 10:15pm (Also showing August 27)

Nathan Ross Freeman in person!
2007, Nathan Ross Freeman, USA, 112 min.
With Debra Terry, Jeryl Prescott

Part coming-of-age story, part ghost story, MR. BONES chronicles the turbulent friendship of "the three Ds", Devin, Dionne, and Dominique, uniquely bonded through a tragedy. A macabre discovery in the woods becomes their solace and secret through childhood years, and the focus of a dark mystery involving an entire community when the three return as adults with unrealized ambitions and unresolved anger. MR. BONES features an ensemble cast from the Winston-Salem Youth Arts Institute, and is the recent winner of Best Feature at the Philadelphia International Film Festival. DigiBeta video. (BS)

Producer/director Nathan Ross Freeman will be present on Monday for audience discussion.

Price: $10

Tuesdays on the Terrace: Mike Jeffers

Tuesday, August 25, 2009, 5:30 - 8pm

The Mike Jeffers Trio combines some of Chicago's top jazz players into one high powered group. Lead by Chicago Jazz Magazine publisher Mike Jeffers this group includes instrumentalists who have performed at many of Chicago's world famous jazz clubs and high profile hotels. Jeffers recently completed a four year residency at the world famous Peninsula Hotel in Chicago. His groups currently specialize in creating the perfect atmosphere for corporate receptions and private events., "Mike Jeffers, a drummer and publisher of the fledgling Chicago Jazz Magazine and, at 34, one of the emerging voices on the city's jazz landscape." - Howard Reich Chicago Tribune

Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Tuesdays, June 2 - September 22, 2009

Music on the Esplanade: The Daddy-O's

Tuesday, August 25, 2009, 6 - 8pm

Providing music from the 50s and 60s, the Daddy-O's entertain audiences in clubs and at festivals, parties, receptions, and concerts for those who love the rock-and-roll of yesteryear.

Unwind after your work day as you listen to relaxing performances by local musicians set on the Chicago Botanic Garden's front lawn. This live musical series showcases an assortment of genres including Spanish guitar, jazz, and blues. The Esplanade offers a beautiful setting for great entertainment and seating for a wide variety of guests - and only on concert evenings, you may have a picnic there as well! Top off the evening with light fare and a glass of wine, premium beer, or other beverages available for purchase on the Esplanade.

Price: Free! Parking, $20 per car
Other Times To-Do It: Tuesdays, June 9 - September 1

Artistically Linked

Tuesday, August 25, 2009, 6 - 9pm

ARTistcally LinKed is a FREE monthly networking event catered to all ARTists: visual artists, fashion & jewelry designers, photographers, models, musicians, vocalists, dj's, graphic designers, poets, videographers, actors, writers and comedians throughout the Chicago land area. It is unique because it brings all these artistically creative individuals together at one event on a consistent basis., VENDOR SPACE AVAILABLE!!!! Contact us for more information @ artists@artisticallylinked.com

Price: Free!

BARCC Meeting: Bronzeville Development Plans

Tuesday, August 25, 2009, 6:30 - 8pm

James Wilson from the City of Chicago Department of Community Development will provide an update on development plans for the Bronzeville area. Come out and hear what's planned for our community, and get your questions answered!

Other Times To-Do It: Monthly - Last Tuesday

M Lounge Live Music - Damian Espinosa Trio

Tuesday, August 25, 2009, 7 - 10pm

Live music is a collective experience of shared emotions and Damian Espinosa continues to bring that experience to venues around Chicago. He has played piano in many diverse musical settings as both a jazz leader and as sideman, as a solo pianist, accompanist, for stage productions, operas, Second City , and even for a silent film., His piano style combines elements of jazz, classical, rock, and latin. The music yields a wealth of tantalizing harmonic colors and rhythmic grooves that span the continuum of jazz. Currently, Damian is involved in many creative projects that include traditional jazz, mainstream jazz, pop, funk, and avant-garde. He also stays busy as a composer and arranger. Damian Espinosa brings the music that gets toes tapping, heads bobbing, and smiles glowing to the rhythmic flow of jazz, Chicago-style., Damian has shared the stage with such notable musicians as Harrison Bankhead, Yosef ben Israel, Mwata Bowden, Joel Brandon, Zach Brock, Douglas Ewert, Burgess Gardner, Chris Greene, Marquecia Jordan, Lady T, Leon Joyce, Heather Moran, Dushun Mosley, Audley Reid, Dan Shapera, Robert Shy, Denise Thimes, Malachi Thompson, Michael Whelan, Corey Wilkes, and Natalie Yokley.

Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Live Music Tuesdays & Wednesdays

Chicago Outdoor Film Festival: Tootsie

Tuesday, August 25, 2009, 8:05 - 10:05pm

Dustin Hoffman, Jessica Lange, Bill Murray, When Michael Dorsey renders himself as too demanding, thus unemployable in the acting world, he transforms himself into Dorothy Michaels for a role on a daytime soap opera. Hoffman convinced late director Sydney Pollack to portray Michael Dorsey's agent, which wound up being one of his most memorable roles of his acting career., 1982 (116 minutes)

Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Tuesday evenings (at sunset), July 14 - August 25, 2009
Venue Info: Alcoholic beverages are not allowed in the park. ;)
More info: www.chicagooutdoorfilmfestival.us

Chicago Jazz Club Tour

Wednesday, August 26, 2009, 6pm - 12am

The Jazz Institute's 22nd Jazz Club Tour on Wednesday, August 27, 2008 from 6:00 p.m. - 12:00 midnight is an annual kick off for the Chicago Jazz Festival sponsored with the Mayor's Office of Special Events. In what could not have been a better match, the Chicago Trolley Company is partnering with the Jazz Institute to present our Annual Jazz Club Tour. Already the city's premier sight seeing tour guides, the Chicago Trolley Company adds both charm and class to one of jazz fans' favorite events of the season. Advance Button sales are $25 and are available at any of the participating clubs August 1- 26, 2008. On the day of the tour, buttons cost $30.

M Lounge Live Music - Lisa Roti

Wednesday, August 26, 2009, 7 - 10pm

There are certain vocalists we feel we know from the first time we hear them sing - Lisa Roti is that kind of singer. The interpretation of each lyric and the intimacy of her delivery draw us in so closely that her whole personality seems to take shape in our imagination., Lisa has an immediately appealing voice with great versatility. It is warm and smoky with sincerity and soulfulness that speak directly to the heart, which is why she has been embraced by fans all over the world. She sings in English, Italian, French, Portuguese and Spanish and has traveled extensively through Europe, Asia, North, Central & South America. She has had the opportunity to perform for such dignitaries as the ambassadors to Brazil, Portugal, Thailand, Guatemala and Germany as well as members of the Canadian Government and even the Princess of Tonga. She has also had the opportunity to study and play with such 'dignitaries of Jazz' as Gene Bertoncini, John Harmon, Franz Jackson, Fred Sturm, Terell Stafford and Janet Planet.

Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Live Music Tuesdays & Wednesdays

Organic Groov: Nadirah Lugg

Wednesday, August 26, 2009, 7pm - 12am

Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Wednesdays & Thursdays

Venue Info: Close Up (CU2) is a smooth jazz club which features live smooth jazz, in an environment with an ethnically diverse, professional clientele. In addition to the music, customers are drawn by the hospitality of the owner, Frank Goss, who is always a welcoming a gracious host. The intimacy of the club and the consistency of the music makes CU2 is a wonderful place that is frequented by "regulars" who enjoy a nice spot to relax after a stressful day, listen to great smooth jazz, network or participate in stimulating conversation. Street parking is allowed after 6pm and a self parking lot is available on a first come first serve basis at the end of the block.

 

 

 

Six Degrees Of Separation

Ongoing through August 30, 2009

by John Guare
Directed by enemble member Steve Scott

Inspired by a true story, the play follows the trail of a young black con man, who insinuates himself into the lives of a wealthy New York couple, claiming that he is the son of actor Sidney Poitier. Captivated by his intelligence and his fascinating conversation, the couple invites him to stay, but slowly discover that not everything is what it seems on the surface. In this award winning off-beat play, Guare examines the threads of chance that link one person to another and the consequences of lives that collide unexpectedly.

Price: $20-25

Great Migration . . . And What They Brought With Them

Ongoing through December 30, 2009

The Illinois Central Railroad, 12th Street Station was the portal for many African Americans. Thousands of Blacks came to Chicago continuously from 1890 through the 1950's due to racism in the South, lack of opportunity, and the desire for education and employment., The largest number of African Americans in Chicago settled between 18th Street on the North and 51st Street on the South - State Street on the West and Cottage Grove on the East during the Great Migration., The Chicago Defender Founded in 1905, communicated with more blacks than any other publication in the first half of the twentieth century. The newspaper encouraged the migration of black southerners to Northern cities with a circulation of over 200,000. Pullman Porters aided the nationwide distribution.

Price: Free!    

Live Jazz at the Velvet Lounge

Nightly

The Velvet Lounge is the only place in the world where you can hear the Chicago sound seven days a week. The Sunday night jam sessions have been an effective way to promote younger members of the jazz community. Fred Anderson opened the Velvet Lounge in 1982 after his club The Birdhouse, on the near north side, closed due to city zoning ordinances.

Price: $10, Wednesday - Thursday; $20, Friday & Saturday; $5, Sunday

Chicago Botanic Garden Carillon Concerts

Mondays through September 7

Enjoy an enchanting 45-minute musical performance of carillon bells on a warm summer evening and watch lights illuminate Evening Island.  Through a regularly scheduled series of concerts each summer, carillonneurs from around the world delight Garden visitors with the captivating music of the 48-bell Theodore C. Butz Memorial Carillon. Meet the performers and enjoy a free carillon tour and demonstration before the concert - you can even try your hand at ringing the bells. Visitors can purchase snacks and a bottle of wine from the Garden Café, or grilled selections from the Garden Grille including burgers, hot dogs and barbeque. You may also bring a picnic dinner to enjoy on the lawn by McGinley Pavilion. Since 1986, the carillon has remained both a noted landmark and a source of remarkable music at the Garden. Crafted in Holland, the tower's bronze bells and playing device with a range of four octaves constitutes one of the few hand-played carillons in the nation.

Price: Free! (parking, $20 per car)

Poetry on Perry

Mondays, 7:30 - 11pm

This event delivers a fresh approach to a popular idea. Complete with a mood-setting DJ, this weekly open-mic adds old school flavor to south-side smothered soul. Come for the dynamic poetry workshop and advance your literary work with writing exercises facilitated by established local teaching artists. Stay for the open mic reading featuring well-known performers citywide, up and coming writers and you. All one has to pay is $5 and respect to the mic. Poetry on Perry is a safe space for all artists to cultivate their craft and build an artistic community of like minds and interests. The first rule is there are no rules . . . anything goes. This open-mic is open to poets, authors, songwriters and performers.

Price: $10; $5, on the mic

Friday Evening "Sit & Sip"

Fridays

Start your weekend by meeting up with friends at WineStyles. Enjoy wine, beer, board games, and more. And don't forget, we're B.Y.O.F. (that's Bring Your Own Food). Live music by Vo starts at 8pm, We're your cheap date night.

Price: Free!

Millennium Park Morning Fitness

Saturdays through September 19, 2009

WEEKLY TAI CHI 7am:  Start your day with this ancient Chinese martial art that has brought peace and discipline to its adherents for centuries.

YOGA 8 a.m.:  Start your day with Yoga in the Park, a class that helps to improve strength, balance, mental focus and flexibility through guided poses, mental imagery and breath work.

PILATES 9 a.m.: Strengthen the core muscles with Pilates in the Park and improve your posture, muscular imbalances and flexibility through a series of ground-based exercises.

DANCE 10 a.m. Dance to the beat with a workout led by members of one of Chicago's outstanding area dance companies. August: Samba Dance Mania with Shirley Vieira and Edilson Lima of Brazil via Chicago, Dance and get fit to the Brazilian rhythms of the samba at Samba Dance Mania with Shirley Vieira and Edilson Lima of Brazil via Chicago.

Price: Free!

Bronzeville Community Market - The Art of Food & Life

Saturdays through October 31

The Bronzeville Community Market, the first of its kind in the City of Chicago, will offer locally grown products as well as tropical produce, prepared foods, and a vibrant array of entertainment and community activities. This farmers' market is a joint project between Quad Communities Development Corporation (QCDC), a local non-profit organization, and the Mayor's Office of Special Events (MOSE). The market will feature a wide variety of fresh and organic fruits and vegetables; a selection of meats, cooking oils, honey, and wine; a range of baked goods and prepared foods; vendors selling plants, beauty products and other non-food items, and a variety of fair trade vendors in cooperation with the Chicago Fair Trade Association. Market goers can also visit a wellness area that will feature a chiropractor and health screenings provided by a local medical facility.

Price: Free!

61st Street Farmers Market

Saturdays through October 25

From now until Halloween, the 2nd year of the 61st Street Farmer's Market will be bringing fresh and healthy foods to this community. Shoppers can purchase local sustainable fruits, vegetables, dairy products, eggs, meats, baked goods, flowers, and plants. There are lots of useful demonstrations as well. This market is run by the Experimental Station, a non-profit organization that is committed to building an independent cultural infrastructure on Chicago's South Side.

Price: Free!