Soleil's Pick!
The Urban Film Series: We the People
Thursday, August 27, 2009, 6 - 9pm
If you remember the Black Cinema Cafe or the BMW Film Series, you don't want to miss the kickoff of our new monthly film event where we showcase independent urban films. We The People chronicles the dramatic events of our Nation's founding and powerfully explores how our democracy has thrived for more than 200 years is set to debut on President's Day 2009 in Washington, D.C., The documentary brings to life the story of America's foundation, which is rooted in three documents - the Declaration of Independence, Constitution and the Bill of Rights - that have shaped the ideals of our country throughout its history.
The Giant Screen Film is a collaboration of the Bill of Rights Institute, the Smithsonian Institute and Inland Sea Productions, Inc. The film directors are award-winning filmmakers Aimee Larrabee and John Altman. This duo has co-produced national award-winning television documentaries, as well as two signature IMAX films. [more]
Price: Free!
Hot Summer Nights: The Boils
Thursday, August 27, 2009, 6 - 8pm
Celtic Music & Dance, Mike Austin and The Boils play jigs and reels from Ireland. Learn a step or two and join in on the performance!
Miscellaneous Info: On Hot Summer Nights, unwind and learn a new move or two! Professional dance instructors will be on hand to provide visitors with easy-to-understand mini-lessons that will correspond with the genre of the evening., Shimmy up to refreshment tables to purchase light fare and beverages (including beer, wine, and margaritas) reflecting the evening's culture. On concert nights only, you may enjoy a picnic on the Esplanade.
Price: Free!
Jazzin' at the Shedd: Detour JazFunk
Thursday, August 27, 2009, 6 - 10pm
North Terrace: DETOUR JAZZ FUNK, Detour JazFunk is the sound of Chicago's new urban jazz scene. Their music is built on a foundation of old-school R&B's soulful and funky grooves, blended with the melodic improvisations of classic and contemporary jazz. Detour JazFunk brings together the eclectic guitar and vocal styling of Phil Seed with the show-stopping drumming and vocals of Ben "Jammin'" Johnson, the deep grooving, funky electric bass of Kenery Kent Smith and the dynamic keyboard wizardry of Tim Gant., Rotunda: The Tim Fitzgerald Trio, The Tim Fitzgerald Trio features an entertaining mix of straight-ahead jazz, funk, pop and soul music. Ernie Adams is one of the nation's leading drummers, having toured with Ahmad Jamal, Ramsey Lewis, Stanley Turrentine, Al DiMeola, and many others. The soulful organist Tom Vaitsas rounds out this fun guitar trio.
Price: $12; Members, Free!
Black Harvest: Mr. Bones
Thursday, August 27, 2009, 6 - 8pm
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
World Class Jazz: Chicago Piano Showcase - Willie Pickens and Ron Perrillo
Thursday, August 27, 2009, 6:30 - 8:30pm
Hear two pianists whose contributions to Chicago's modern piano tradition unfold at each end of a generation. Willie Pickens' powerful hands propelled one of the world's greatest drummers, Elvin Jones. For this evening he will be joined by Chicago favorite, tenor saxman Donald Harrison. Pickens' classic hard-bop style is contrasted by the younger hands of Ron Perrillo who will premiere a new composition "The River" that explores the tension between urban and natural landscapes.
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays, July 30 - September 3, 2009
Organic Groov: Aaron Akins
Thursday, August 27, 2009, 7pm - 12am
Aaron Akins' music is a contemporary blend of Urban, R&B and Jazz. The Chicago native had the honor of performing for The Pope at the Vatican. At Holland's North Sea Jazz Festival, he sang alongside great vocalists and musicians like Herbie Hancock, Al Jarreau, Eric Clapton and Rahsaan Patterson. Aaron has, also, shared the bill with Anthony Hamilton and Angie Stone.
Price: Free!
We Love Obama Comedy Tour
Thursday, August 27, 2009, 8 - 10pm
The We Love Obama Tour is a unique performance that combines groundbreaking theater with accomplished and hilarious stand-up comedy. The result is a hilarious and enlightening event. This tour is for sale. You don't have to be addicted to the "first black president", know someone who is, or even like Obama to enjoy great live comedy. The tour has four to six performers who spend at least five minutes of material on "our first Black President Barak Obama". The material is always funny and never what you're expecting. This is by no means "a black thang". Based on the spirit of our "theme" it is a thing of inclusion and service.
Price: $20; VIP, $25
New Era In Jazz: "Mo Better" featuring Maurice Fitzgerald
Thursday, August 27, 2009, 8 - 9:30pm
If you've been to the Events by Eve Summer Breeze Jazz Concert Series, you know that you can expect a mature set of predominately African-Americans that dress appropriately without being told! Come in your favorite jeans or come in some sparkles and feel completely comfortable.
Miscellaneous Info: Blu 47 is showcasing a brand new roster of musicians in the genre of Jazz, Nu-Jazz & Soul every Thursday starting at 8pm. Events by Eve is proud to be the new Executive Producer responsible for showcasing some of the most talented musicians in Chicago. Please contact Blu 47 if you would like to dine during the show. ONE SET ONLY!!! For all Bookings & Media Kits, please contact Eve Maria Bridgeforth at (773) 933-4781.
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays
Six Degrees Of Separation (Closing Week)
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
Other Times To-Do It: July 23 - August 30, 2009
Black Harvest: If You Love Me
Thursday, August 27, 2009, 8:15 - 10:15pm
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
Other Times To-Do It: August 7 though September 3
Black Harvest: Slaying Goliath
Friday, August 28, 2009, 6:15 - 7:45pm (Also showing September 1)
2008, Joe Brewster and Michele Stephenson, USA, 70 min.
Winner of the Grand Jury Prize for Best Documentary at the American Black Film Festival in Los Angeles, this remarkable film follows a Harlem fifth-grade basketball team to the AAU National Championships in Florida. What starts out looking like an inspirational heart-warmer takes a detour into trickier territory as the accompanying parents question the coach's aggressive tactics, his on-court profanity offends Bible Belt opponents, one player is caught stealing, another quits, and the team suffers loss after loss. The result is not a hatchet-job but an extraordinarily candid and complex depiction of an unsettlingly real situation. Beta SP video. (MR), THE SECOND HALF 2008, Jeffrey Elmont, USA, 20 min. With Kevin Dunigan, Sinqua Walls, Preceded by THE SECOND HALF. A high school janitor and a student with attitude face off on the basketball court in an encounter that will leave them both changed. HD-CAM video. (BS) FF
Price: $10
Other Times To-Do It: August 7 though September 3
Close-Up 2: Greg Spero
Friday, August 28, 2009 and Saturday, August 29, 2009
Greg Spero has been studying piano independently for his life, and has studied jazz piano with world-renowned musicians including Chip Stephens, Joan Hickey, and Chip McNeal. He has written the music for several plays including the Chicago Feltre Theater's performances of Ionesco's "Exit the King" and two Tennessee Williams one-acts. He has composed music for films such as Joe Burgess' "The Perfect Breakup", and produces R&B/Hip-Hop for New-York singer Guia Cuyugan. He produced two songs for James Garfunkel, entitled "My Girl Now" and "Someone Like You". His recording on Frank Catalano's Mighty Burner album debuted at #11 on the Jazz Billboard Charts, and after 20 weeks on the Billboards became a best-selling jazz album for 2006., Greg began playing professionally at the age of 14 with a Chicago based blues group called "The Slack Daddies". Throughout his high school career he participated in and directed many musical ensembles, ranging from jazz to rock, spanning the gamut all the way to heavy metal. He then went on to study Jazz Piano and Composition at University of Illinois in Champaign/Urbana where he received his BA in Music Composition and Jazz Piano Performance. He currently performs with his self-titled Jazz-Fusion trio and other groups at such venues as the House of Blues Chicago, The Green Mill, Andy's Jazz Club, Martyrs, Fitzgerald's, and Wise Fool's Pub, and performs with other musicians such as Harrison Bankhead, and Leon Joyce (of the Ramsey Lewis Trio), Frank Russell, and Dede Sampio (the latter two of the Miles Davis ensembles) and Corey Wilkes. Greg's influences range from Oscar Peterson to Chick Corea and Herbie Hancock, to Stravinsky and Schoenberg. Greg draws influence from american-born jazz and world dance music, but finds great inspiration in the hardcore head-banging western electric distortion, along with the heavy-hitting groove-based hip-hop rhythms. Greg Spero is often recognized as one of the premiere up-and-coming pianists in Chicago.
Price: $5
Other Times To-Do It: Friday and Saturday
Black Harvest: Radical Disciple: The Story of Father Pfleger
Friday, August 28, 2009, 8:15 - 9:45pm
Chicago connection Filmmakers in person! 2009, Bob Hercules, USA, 58 min., Regarded as a hero by many and a renegade by some in the Catholic Church hierarchy, Michael Pfleger, longtime pastor of Chicago's St. Sabina Parish, has consistently used the power of his pulpit to battle social inequity, engaging in high-profile political activism to end drug-dealing, prostitution, and exploitation by liquor and tobacco companies in his community. Bob Hercules, director of SENATOR OBAMA GOES TO AFRICA, captures the charisma of the crusading priest and his "gospel of the streets" while exploring the larger issues of tensions between the Church and its African American flock. DigiBeta video. (BS) FF, Director Bob Hercules and, tentatively, Rev. Michael Pfleger will be present at both screenings for audience discussion.
Price: $10
Other Times To-Do It: August 7 through September 3
Taste of Greece
Saturday, August 29, 2009 and Sunday, August 30, 2009, 12 - 11pm
Opaa! It's time again for the annual Taste of Greece Celebration hosted by the Greektown SSA. Everyone is invited to celebrate all things Greek. For two days Halsted Street will be bursting with food, music and fun from Monroe to Van Buren., The Taste of Greece is an adventure that offers the sights, sounds and taste that is all Greece. Stroll Halsted Street in Greektown and sample the fine Greek delicacies that Chicagoans have grown to love. If you haven't tried all the famous restaurants on Halsted, this is a great time to sample and taste favorites and specialties that take you throughout Greece and Cyprus., Besides, the gastronomic adventure, festivities include two live music stages, featuring the music of the acclaimed Hellas 2000 and Hellenic Five Greek bands. Join the fun and learn the sirtaki, tsamiko, kalamatiano and other Greek dances. Come and see the beautiful costumes of both mainland and the islands of Greece as three of Illinois favorite Greek dance troupes will perform. Don't miss your turn in the circle dance in the evening. Other Entertainment includes Belly Dancers, Greek Acrobats, The Jesse White Tumblers and plenty of Children's games, face painting and prizes each afternoon., From Gyros and Lamb chops to Shish-ka-bobs and grilled octopus - [the 2009] Taste will have it all. Come hungry as there is something for everyone. Patrons are advised to leave room for the baklava! And when you are done eating, stroll down Halsted for shopping like the Plaka District in Athena. Here you can find terrific values on olive oil, jewelry, art, accessories, religious items, and much more. It's like going to Greece, at a spur of the moment - Chicago style!
Price: Free!
Book Clubs Unite - Book Lovers Luncheon
Saturday, August 29, 2009, 2 - 6pm
Five Reasons why book enthusiast should attend 1) To represent and tell US about your Book Club (one representative from each book club will read the report), 2) To meet and mingle with other Chicagoland area book clubs, 3) To meet and greet Chicagoland Authors and invite to your next meeting;, 4) To participate in an Essay Contest "What Makes My Book Club Unique?" 5) To present your Book Club to potential new members, Why Authors should attend: , 1) To meet and mingle with book club members;, 2) To present to the audience your upcoming book and let us know "Why Book Clubs are important to you?";, 3) To offer your book for sale to all attendees
Price: $25 Book Club Members/ $35 Authors
A Taste of Blu Tuesday
Saturday, August 29, 2009, 6 - 10pm
An evening of food, drinks and beautiful people. Six chefs, Six cuisines, DJ Marco and a Silent Auction all for $25. A fundraiser for the Sigma Beta Club,the teen male affiliate group of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. to raise scholarship funds for graduating high school seniors., Honoring radio personality Bionce Foxx!
Price: $25
Teena Marie, w/ Howard Hewett
Saturday, August 29, 2009, 7 - 11pm
For nearly three decades, pint - sized, soul stirring songstress Teena Marie has undeniably been a force to be reckoned with in the nearly thirty years of her professional performing career. The accomplished singer, songwriter, producer and arranger has managed to consistently capture the hearts and spirits of millions of fans with her music.
Howard Hewett, According to one Rolling Stone writer, Howard Hewett is the premier vocalist in the post - Marvin Gaye era of romantic pop. Like Gaye, Hewett soars to new heights and seduces his audience. It is no wonder he's responsible for selling some ten million records; his voice is irresistible. Howard Hewett is one of the most talented soul singers of the past two decades. In group settings, as a guest vocalist and as a solo singer, Hewetts virtually irresistible voice has wrapped itself around material of various quality turning good songs into great records and doing his best to save some of the lesser material with which he has sometimes been saddled as a solo artist. Born in Akron, Ohio, Howard led his older sisters in the Hewett Singers, a group who played the big-time gospel circuit while Howard was still a pre-teen. Hewett moved to Los Angeles and, after a period appearing on Soul Train, became a member of Shalamar, the centerpiece of Dick Griffeys SOLAR (Sound of Los Angeles) label. [more]
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
Project Osmosis 4th Annual Benefit - Synergy 2009
Saturday, August 29, 2009, 7 - 10pm
Synergy: The interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances or other agents to produce a combined effect greater that the sum of their separate effects. Project Osmosis invites you to join us for Synergy 2009, the Osmosis Education and Mentoring Initiative annual benefit where, for one night only, attendees get an opportunity to network with some of Chicago's most talented artists and designers while enjoying an energetic evening of fun, good music and appetizing food and drinks. The auctioning of various items, including creations by many of the artists, will also be a part of the night's festivities. Much like "Synergy," Project Osmosis is a gathering place for minority artists and design professionals who are committed to their craft and are willing to develop and share their talents with others. It's where members gather and bring truth to the statement that "the sum is greater than the parts." Your contribution, whether in presence or monetarily, will assist Project Osmosis in continuing its mission to create programs and initiatives in the United States and internationally, which creatively develop and support minority youth by demonstrating the abilities and skills needed to pursue careers in the art and design fields., Mark your calendars and tell a friend or two (or three) about SYNERGY 2009!
Door: $45
Advance: $40
Black Harvest: Banana Leaves
Saturday, August 29, 2009, 8:15 - 9:45pm (Also showing September 3)
Chicago connection Lanre Sarumi in person! 2008, Lanre Sarumi, USA, 90 min. With Michael Blackson, Tirf Alexius, Gandlyn Ross, Three young professionals with a taste for exotic smokes take their quest for the ultimate high a step too far in this urban tale set in Chicago. Director Sarumi makes superb use of South Loop and Chinatown locations to construct a thriller with the alluring veneer of an upwardly mobile lifestyle. A drug deal with a cruel twist, an accident, and a child's ghost serve to pry open the door to an eerie netherworld where retribution may be in the cards. HD video. (BS), Director Lanre Sarumi will be present for audience discussion at both screenings.
Price: $10
Other Times To-Do It: August 7 through September 3
Best of Blax - Late Night Show
Saturday, August 29, 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.
Price: $10
Other Times To-Do It: Saturdays, August 22 - September 12, 2009
Girls with Pearls Tea Event
Sunday, August 30, 2009, 12 - 3pm
The Invitation Lounge will host the Girls with Pearls Tea designated for girls ages 6-13, the first of a series of signature events. The purpose for this event is to host a tea party as a back to school incentive that will cultivate self-awareness as well as self-esteem while also promoting an appreciation for diversity. By also teaching these young ladies the importance of sisterly relations and collective work we hope to help them overcome the stereotypes and challenges that they will face as minority women in today's society.
Price: $25; per Young Lady $12.50
Jazz In the Alley - 30th Anniversary
Sunday, August 30, 2009, 1-8pm
JAZZ IN THE ALLEY began in the late 1950's as a disc-jockey and musician jam sessions. Held on the south side of Chicago, behind 50th street and St. Lawrence, in a three car garage owned by jazz fan "Pops" Simpson. For over two decades the "alley" was the hip place to be and be seen, year round.
Every Sunday jazz, DJs would bring five of their best records and spin them in the spirit of a fun-loving competition. Some years later Pops was approached with the idea of having musicians jam too and he was all for the idea. The musician jam sessions were led by local sax man Jimmy Ellis. As with all things, Pops' scene faded into history...
Enter Oshun Mugwana, another jazz lover and a filmmaker. She was producing a documentary on the exciting Chicago jazz scene. Her research on the project inspired her to revive the tradition of having jazz in the alley. With the blessing of Pops and Jimmy Ellis, she resurrected the affair as an annual festival on the last Sunday in August, sponsored by her organization OM PRODUCTIONS
Big fun in Bronzeville on a vacant lot at 31st and Prairie, the stage was a garage rooftop overlooking the alley! The "Alley" has been produced on various vacant lots around the area as well as in Dunbar Park in the late 1990's.
After a brief hiatus, the Jazz in the Alley Festival made its triumphant comeback to Dunbar Park in 2007! Near the end of her life Ms. Mugwana established the Jazz in the Alley Foundation to continue this indisputably rich legacy. We may no longer be in the alley, but the spirit lives on!
Price: Free!
Black Harvest: After the Storm
Sunday, August 30, 2009, 3 - 4:30pm (Also showing September 2)
2009, Hilla Medallia, USA, 89 min.
Dismayed by the massive, still-unrepaired damage left by Katrina, three New York theater veterans decide to do something about it. They recruit Lower Ninth Ward teenagers to star in a revival of the hit Broadway musical Once on This Island, performed at New Orleans' once-vital, long-shuttered St. Mark's Community Center. The audition and rehearsal scenes have the infectious flavor of FAME, but these high spirits are deepened by the emotional hurdles faced by the young cast members, many of them still separated from their homes and parents and troubled by memories that are reflected in the hurricane setting of the play. Israeli director Hilla Medalia's film is presented in cooperation with the Consulate General of Israel, Chicago. Beta SP video. (MR)
Price: $10
Other Times To-Do It: August 7 though September 3
Annual Jazz Club Tour
Sunday, August 30, 2009, 6pm - 12am
The JAZZ CLUB TOUR will, for the 23rd year, kick off the Chicago Jazz Festival festivities by giving visitors and hometown folks an opportunity to sample a wide range of music and venues to whet their palates for the free feast to come., The JAZZ CLUB TOUR takes its patrons for a ride - to the past, to the present, to the future. From Chicago-style blues at Buddy Guy's Legends to North Side mainstay the Green Mill to the longstanding bebop traditions of the Jazz Showcase in the north Loop. We have several new clubs this year which we know you will enjoy!
Price: $30 for 15 clubs!
Staged reading of Strindberg's "Creditors"
Sunday, August 30, 2009, 7 - 9pm
Can ARTISTS successfully marry, does the cost of creativity effectively nullify the prospects of marriage?
Miscellaneous Info: Chicago Script Works (CSW) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to producing a series of staged readings, created to provide a public forum for new works and fresh voices. CSW is a valuable process for writers: it allows the creative visionary to hear their words read aloud by professionals before an audience to help them work with their vision on new levels. CSW assists actors in honing their skills and gives them a chance to participate in the writing process. And it offers audience members a unique opportunity to exercise their imaginations and become part of the event akin to the ancient art of story telling.
Price: $5
Discounts: Free! if you attended the April Tofu Chitlin' Panel
The A la Carte: Watermelon Edition
Monday, August 31, 2009, 6:30 - 9pm
Hey Circuiteers,, We're back with our regular scheduled programming with our next A La Carte: Watermelon Edition with "What's the Funny?" Exploring comedy through the lens of Stand-up comics & Improv/Sketch groups. Join us as we feature Chicago Improv Festival producer Jonathan Pitts, comedian Meechie Hall, female Asian comic, Leah Eva, King of Bronzeville Brian Babylon, Cameron Esposito, & Mpaact Theater Company.
Price: $3, suggested donation
Other Times To-Do It: Last Monday, monthly
Tuesdays on the Terrace: Green Mill Quartet
Tuesday, September 1, 2009, 5:30 - 8pm
This one has become immensely popular, so it's best to get out there early. Dinner reservations are recommended if you prefer seating in sight of the band.
Miscellaneous Info: Join us for Tuesdays on the Terrace, another exciting season of free evening jazz concerts on the MCA's Anne and John Kern Terrace overlooking Lake Michigan. Enjoy cocktails and a buffet dinner while listening to Chicago's finest jazz musicians, hosted by local radio personalities. In addition to a buffet dinner, Puck's cafe also offers other picnic options, perfect for those who prefer to relax on the sculpture garden lawn. Outside food and beverages and not allowed in the sculpture garden. In case of rain, the event takes place in Puck's. Dinner reservations are recommended, call (312) 397-4034.
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Tuesdays, June 2 - September 22, 2009
Jazz Institute of Chicago Annual Gala - Honoring Grace: Michelle Obama
Tuesday, September 1, 2009, 6 - 10pm
There's probably no better example of democracy than a jazz ensemble." - Michelle Obama "Michelle Obama's story is a great inspiration to me, and I was thrilled to be commissioned by the Jazz Institute of Chicago to honor her through music. The more I learn about Michelle, the more I understand that she's like a South Side friend from next door, who keeps opening doors in all our minds and lives by her very example. She is committed, community-oriented, and conscientious. Michelle Obama is a light on America's heart - she is the real deal. I want my composition, Honoring Grace, to shine with her effervescence, to celebrate her spirit of excellence, her warm ways, her style and craft." - Nicole Mitchell We're honoring First Lady Michelle Obama with a specially commissioned jazz composition dedicated to her accomplishments and the importance of her current role to women everywhere. The world premiere of the composition by rising star composer and flutist Nicole Mitchell will be performed at our gala.
Price: $50, Concert Only; $150, Gala (JIC Members, $125)
Music on the Esplanade: The Mojo Daddies
Tuesday, September 1, 2009, 6 - 8pm
The Mojo Daddies are an up-and-coming rock-and-roll band playing throughout Chicagoland, featuring a balanced mix of originals and cover tunes. The covers are excellent, and the originals will have audiences humming long after they leave the Garden.
Miscellaneous Info: 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
Black Harvest: Complexion
Tuesday, September 1, 2009, 8:15 - 9:45pm (Also showing September 3)
Vandon N. Gibbs in person!
2008, Vandon N. Gibbs, USA, 90 min.
With John Artis Jr., Tanya Fraser
Some hilarious he-said, she-said debate serves to rip the mask off not-so-pretty romantic expectations in this comedy-drama that centers on the checklist of qualities a guy looks for in his lady. Meet Derek, a cool and calculating dude with a mental image of the perfect woman. Meet Tracee, a smart, loyal, and curvaceous beauty. She's Derek's dream come true in every way but one, and he's about to get tripped up by that old adage about beauty being only skin deep. HD-CAM video. (BS)
Director Vandon N. Gibbs is tentatively scheduled to be present at both screenings for audience discussion.
Price: $10
Other Times To-Do It: August 7 though September 3
Soleil's Pick!
SummerDance at Washington Park: Occidental Brothers Dance Band International
Wednesday, September 2, 2009, 6 - 9:30pm
Chicago SummerDance in the Parks 2009 presents free African Diaspora dance lessons by Kimosha P. Murphy of the ALYO Children's Dance Theater and live music by the Occidental Brothers Dance Band International. This popular band has been winning over listeners, rockers, dancers and world music critics with their electrifying live shows., Chicago's Occidental Brothers Dance Band International play classic Central and West African dance music-specializing in soukous, Highlife, Rumba, Dry Guitar, and other delights from the continent. This multi-racial band mixes their backgrounds in traditional African music, jazz, and underground rock to bring these classic sounds to life. The group has been winning over a diverse audience of listeners, dancers and rockers, and causing a buzz among established African music critics. Guitarist Nathaniel Braddock leads the group. Braddock teaches African guitar at Chicago's Old Town School of Folk Music and is a veteran of Chicago's jazz and independent rock scene, playing with Ancient Greeks, Edith Frost, and the Zincs.
Price: Free!
Countdown to Copenhagen
Wednesday, September 2, 2009, 6:30 - 9:30pm
Hosted by Chicago 2016's Next Generation Leadership Advisory Council, Please join Chicago 2016 supporters to countdown the remaining 30 days until the IOC makes the Host City decision. Enjoy an evening of socializing and networking in Chicago's South Side, the heart of the Chicago 2016 Games plan. Enjoy drinks and delicious appetizers, prepared by Park 52, and learn how our city's bid for the Games will continue to positively impact Chicago's south side community. Remarks will be made by Chicago 2016 Committee members and athletes. All proceeds will go to benefit Chicago 2016.
Price: $30
Jazz Wednesdays: TBD
Wednesday, September 2, 2009, 7 - 9pm
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: Every Wednesday from 7pm-9pm, Park 52 will enhance your dining experience by featuring some of the very best jazz artists that Chicago has to offer. Please contact Events by Eve for more information in regard to the Wednesday roster at (773) 933-4781.
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Wednesdays
Patti Austin/Ramsey Lewis Trio/Kurt Elling Sings Coltrane/Hartman
Wednesday, September 2, 2009, 7 - 10:30pm
Patti Austin, Ramsey Lewis Trio, Kurt Elling, Ernie Watts, Ethel
Price: $55, Reserved; $15, Lawn
Venue Info: Ravinia is a spot that must be visited at least once each season. The parkgrounds are absolutely beautiful and nothing beats a lazy summer afternoon, turned to balmy evening under the stars, sprawled out on a blanket. (Or lawn chair for those of you who prefer to remain off the ground.) Purchase lawn seats or get reserve seats and start your evening on the lawn. Wine and a reasonable variety of tasty treats, meals and sweets are available for purchase and lawn chairs available for rent. But, it's so much fun to pack up a picnic basket, some candles (citronella :) ) and incense - do it your way!, Drive and face the mass exodus after the show. The Metra is the easiest way to get there and the last train leaves about 30 minutes after the show. Coming in, you'll usually find some lively, informal pre-parties on each car. And, what - people actually talking to strangers and exchanging food and drink on the train and at the park, rather than isolating themselves behind their cell phones or I-pods? Yes, people - it happens. And it's happenING - so get yourself out there!
M Lounge Live Music - TBD
Wednesday, September 2, 2009, 7 - 10pm
This To-Do will be updated as information becomes available. Under "Event Actions," select "Notify Me of Changes" to automatically receive an update from Soleil's To-Dos!
Miscellaneous Info: Two drink minimum. During performances, parties of 1 will be seated at the bar.
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Live Music Tuesdays & Wednesdays
Organic Groov: TBD
Wednesday, September 2, 2009, 7pm - 12am
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!
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.
Black Harvest: Shorts Program - Chicago Connected II
Wednesday, September 2, 2009, 8:15 - 9:45pm
Chicago connection Filmmakers in person! 2008-9,
Various directors, USA, 93 min.
Chicago talent shines in four new films. Not everyone sitting on a bar stool is who or what they seem in Natasha Parker's RAW EMOTIONS (2008, 11 min.). A Civil War-era romantic farce, APRIL FOOLS (2008, 18 min.), by School of the Art Institute alumnus Cal Ward Jr., is marked by hipster humor and satirical twists. Life turns perilous for a little girl on Chicago's West Side in Archie Roper's BLACK GIRL (2008, 35 min.), based on a true story. Poetry becomes a lifeline for a jilted wife challenged to renew her belief in love in HIDING PLACES (2008, 29 min.) by Alvin M. Daniels. Various video formats. (BS)
Directors Natasha Parker, Archie Roper, Alvin M. Daniels, and tentatively, Cal Ward Jr., will be present for audience discussion.
Price: $10
Other Times To-Do It: August 7 though September 3
World Music Wednesdays: The D-O-3-0
Wednesday, September 2, 2009, 8:30 - 11pm
Featuring Justin Dillard and Art "Turk" Burton & Conga Square, The Old Town School of Folk Music, in partnership with the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM) and the Jazz Institute of Chicago, presents a stellar night of jazz with two formidable Chicago acts. Justin Dillard is a jazz organist who has been a mainstay in the Chicago Jazz scene performing with a myriad of artists and garnering the attention of our city's top critics. "A new generation of jazz improvisers has emerged in Chicago in recent years, but few are more promising than pianist/organist Justin Dillard" - Howard Reich - Chicago Tribune, Master percussionist, Art "Turk" Burton presents his tribute to the legendary Conga Square credited by many as the birthplace of jazz. Burton's career in Chicago spans two decades and has been featured in many prominent jazz outfits including the AACM Great Black Music Ensemble., This show is part of the Jazz Institute's 26th Annual Jazz Club Tour.
Price: $5, Suggested Donation
While the civil rights era is not a new subject for me or for most of us, the images were compelling. I was struck by the youth of the people photographed, unknowns as well as Jesse Jackson, Julian Bond, John Lewis and, of course Dr. King. But, my breakdown occurred when I reached the photos of the desegregation of Little Rock Central High. Elizabeth Beckford (I hope I have her name right) did not get the message that the date for the African American students to start school had been pushed back by one day. So, this fifteen-year-old girl arrived alone and was the target of unimaginable venom. Even as I look at the picture today, I get chills as I think of the strength it must have taken for her to keep moving. 
Ongoing Through September 7
Ongoing through December 30, 2009
Nightly
Mondays through September 7
Mondays, 7:30 - 11pm 
Fridays
Saturdays through September 19, 2009 
Saturdays through October 31 
Saturdays through October 25 
