Thursday, June 10, 2010, 6 - 10pm
The event is a fundraiser for cancer and diabetes charities, and will feature live music, over $3000 worth of prizes in multiple drawings, food and a cash bar. Ticket includes access to pampering services, and entry into drawing. Information tables on a number of non profits focused on the fight against these diseases.
Luxury and Life: Pampering for a purpose will feature a number of luxury vendors providing the products and services you need for a better life. Not Just for Women: We also focus on the men with information for your health as well as for your heart with sports ticket giveaways and a special "games for guys" section with special games and prizes with the guy in mind, Designated Charities: Portion of all proceeds will go to cancer support group Imerman Angels and diabetes support organization Jimmy Insulin The Prizes!: Cruise Vacation for two to one of 40 Different Locations; Tickets to the Sold Out Sting Concert at Ravinia; Tickets to local baseball games (Cubs & Sox); Private Wine Tasting For 10; Photo Session; and Much More . . .
Door: $30
Advance: $20
Thursday, June 10, 2010, 6 - 8pm
Contemporary Country, Pamela Rose and Windy City Country bring a fresh and energetic flavor into the live country music scene. The group comprises six "smokin'" musicians and singers, all bringing a variety of local and national acclaim to the stage. Their unique contemporary style re-creates country classics as well as jams the hottest hits topping the charts today. The band's repertoire is versatile and covers a wide musical spectrum for country music experts and novices alike.
Soleil's Take: View the complete Hot Summer Nights schedule!
Price: Free! (Parking, $20 per car)
Other Times To-Do It: Thursday Evenings, June 10 through September 2, 2010
Thursday, June 10, 2010, 6 - 8pm
Speaker: Stephanie Bass, In this session a certified QuickBooks instructor and accountant will teach participants how to set up, navigate and use QuickBooks. QuickBooks is a great tool for small businesses, and is developed to assist you in easily managing the recordkeeping, accounting and finances for your company. If you are only marginally using Quick Books, or not using it at all, this session will be invaluable for assisting you in understanding and using QuickBooks.
Price: $25
Thursday, June 10, 2010, 6 - 8:30pm
It's time to start enjoying the warm weather and dining alfresco with family and friends. Whether it's a potluck, a reunion in the park or an impromptu get together in your backyard, you'll use these recipes all summer long.
Soleil's Take: No demos here - this is a hands-on learning experience! The classes are quite popular and generally sell out early, so don't delay! View more World Kitchen To-Dos.
Miscellaneous Info: WORLD KITCHEN, Learn basic cooking techniques or specialized professional secrets in culinary arts classes offered by instructors and guest chefs in a state-of-the-art professional training kitchen. All World Kitchen classes are hands-on unless indicated otherwise. Classes begin promptly. Please wear appropriate clothing and non-skid shoes; bring an apron if desired. Single classes are $30. Series classes (4 classes in a series) are $100. Students must 16 years or older.
Thursday, June 10, 2010, 6:30 - 9pm
Bassekou Kouyate, a virtuoso of the ngoni (West African lute) and his band, Ngoni Ba, seamlessly blend contemporary jazz, blues, rock, bluegrass and pop influences with Afro-beat and the centuries old traditions of the griots of Mali. To end the night, they team with blues legends Otis Taylor, Eddie Shaw and Hubert Sumlin to celebrate the centennial of Howlin' Wolf's birth in collaboration with the Chicago Blues Festival.
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays, June 3 - July 22, 2010
Thursday, June 10, 2010, 7pm - 12am
The Very Intoxicating DOUBLESHOTT - Roger Harris and Shayla Mayweather - a unique blend of piano and soul stirring vocals, bringing the best in Jazz, Pop, R&B, Rock, Country, Blues and Soul . . . Don't just have one shot . . . have a DOUBLESHOTT
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Wednesdays & Thursdays
Thursday, June 10, 2010, 7 - 9pm
Since their creation in 1966 the Black Panther Party (BPP) for Self Defense has been viewed with pride and fear. In spite of their impact on public policy and their imprint on the Civil Rights Movement, this iconic organization remains shrouded in mystery. In concert with the exhibit, 'The Black Panthers: Making Sense of History', this conversation will explore who the Panthers were, what they did, how they did it and their impact on the modern Civil Rights Movement. Moderator: Robert Starks, Speakers:, Ron Carter - Black Wall Street, Willie Calvin - Defense Captain of the Black Panther Party, Illinois Chapter, Billy Che Brooks- BPP Deputy Minister of Education, Wanda Ross - Black Panther Party, Illinois Chapter, Stan McKinney - Black Panther Party, Illinois Chapter, Tauheedah Mustafa - Black Panther Party, Illinois Chapter
Price: $10; $5, DuSable Members
Thursday, June 10, 2010, 8 - 9:30pm
Written & Directed by: Carla Stillwell, Adapted from the works of: Orron Kenyatta TAD IN 5th CITY walks us through the journey of young Tad Brown and his family. But this is just as much the story of a neighborhood, as it festers under the weight of poverty, gang violence and addiction in the aftermath of the '68 Chicago riots. Featuring: David Goodloe, Shayla Jarvis, Eddie Jordan III*, Sidney Miller, Andre Teamer*, introducing Destin L. Teamer and Sati Word*, *MPAACT Artistic Associates
Price: $21-23
Other Times To-Do It: April 30 - June 13, 2010
Thursday, June 10, 2010, 8 - 10pm
3pm Sunday Matinee
"The Man Who Saved New Orleans" follows the story of Arthur Prejean, an eighty-five year old blind man whose blood runs deep beneath the mansions and shotgun houses spread throughout New Orleans. A descendent of slaves whose hands helped to build the Crescent City, he suddenly finds himself uprooted by a storm, along with his family, and displaced from everything he knows. Inspired by the playwright's personal experience with his wife's New Orleans family, Meloncon "saw firsthand how they were affected by Katrina and the fallout afterwards . . . These people abandoned not only their homes, but their relationships, memories and dreams. I wanted to create a story about the emotional rollercoaster they lived through."
Price: $30
Other Times To-Do It: April 22 - June 13, 2010
Thursday, June 10, 2010, 8:30pm - 12:30am
Paul Makaya Marcus McCraven, drummer, producer, composer and multi-instrumentalist has been impressing crowds for almost two decades. His explosive drumming blends world rhythms and jazz traditions with a hip hop and rock attitude. Mixing music is not new to Makaya: his parents, drummer Stephen McCraven and Hungarian folk singer Agnes Zsigmondi, introduced him to eclectic sounds touring with him while he was still in the womb. Now, he has taken their influences and developed his own unique style. At age 24 he has internationally toured and performed with jazz greats such as Archie Shepp, Yusef Lateef, Charles Neville, Billy Taylor and many more. He has shared the stage with such acts as Wutang, Digable Planets, The Pharcyde, Mixmaster Mike, the Wailers, and the list goes on. Destined to be a musician before his birth, Makaya McCraven brings fresh life to music, merging old traditions with new sounds.
Price: $10, Wednesday - Thursday; $20, Friday & Saturday; $5, Sunday
Other Times To-Do It: Wednesday - Sunday nights
Thursday, June 10, 2010, 9pm - 12am
Alex Cuba is an outstanding Cuban musician who immersed himself in guitar, tres, percussion and bass as a teenager and went on to play bass with traditional Cuban artists recording and touring extensively. He fully discovered his extraordinary capacity as a singer/songwriter after moving to Canada. After recording an award-winning album with his twin brother (vocalist Adonis Puentes), he broke out of the Cuban mold to create a son-rock-soul style that is all his own. His releases Humo de Tabaco and Agua del Pozo both earned Juno awards for Best World Music Album and charted heavily on iTunes. Alex Cuba returns to Chicago after sold out shows in the 2008 World Music Festival and a stellar performance at the House of Blues in April.
Door: $20
Advance: $15
Thursday, June 10, 2010, 9 - 10:30pm
Back Home Tomorrow focuses on two children who confront changed lives in very different circumstances after becoming victims of war-torn environments. Yagoub has fled Darfur to the Mayo refugee camp in Khartoum, Sudan, where he waits for a heart operation to save his life. Seven-year-old Murtaza has lost his left hand to a land mine in Afghanistan and in heart-rending detail, filmmakers Fabrizio Lazzaretti and Paolo Santolini follow Murtaza and Yagoub from their initial admission into hospitals in Kabul and Khartoum, respectively, to their release months later. They expertly interweave these two fascinating and heartfelt stories without commentary to create a film of rich complexities and emotional resonance.
Soleil's Take: View the entire Human Rights Watch Film Festival Schedule.
Price: $9
Other Times To-Do It: June 3 - 10, 2010
Friday, June 11, 2010
The 2010 FIFA World Cup is almost upon us and fans unable to travel to SA can still experience the passion & pageantry of the "Carnival" of sports. Come and enjoy diversity, sports, music, food and a festive atmosphere! Overall, remember that fun is what makes the world go round! Matches will be viewed on big flat screens live during the day or after work, no worries. We'll have t-shirts, balls and other "freebies" to enhance your experience., You shall be able to savor our breakfast & Mediterranean style buffets:, · Breakfast/Brunch buffets: $12/food only - $25/$35 food & beer/wine/well or Call packages(available for the AM games only), · Lunch Buffet: $12/food only -$25/$35 food & beer/wine/Well or Call packages(avail. for afternoon games only), · Buffets & drinks packages(& prices) are available during the featured games only (3 Hours) & does not include gratuity. Buffets, Packages, & specials are at the sole discretion of Cy's Crabhouse.
Other Times To-Do It: Daily through July 11th
Price: Free!
Friday, June 11, 2010, 11am - 9:30pm
The Chicago Blues Festival is the largest free blues festival in the world and remains the largest of Chicago's Music Festivals. During three days on five stages, more than 640,000 blues fans prove that Chicago is the "Blues Capital of the World." Past performers include Bonnie Raitt, Ray Charles, B.B. King, the late Bo Diddley, Buddy Guy and the late Koko Taylor. Zora Young - Despite the prominent presence of celebrated blues artist Howlin' Wolf in her family tree, singer Zora Young grew up singing not blues, but gospel. Even when the Mississippi native shook off her roots at the age of seven to relocate with her family to Chicago, she attended the Greater Harvest Baptist Church and continued to sing gospel. It wasn't until later that she switched over to R&B, and evolved into a powerhouse blues vocalist with three decades of experience behind her. Zora has performed with a long list of artists, including Junior Wells, Jimmy Dawkins, Bobby Rush, Buddy Guy, Professor Eddie Lusk, Albert King, and B.B. King. Her recording credits include collaborations with Willie Dixon, Sunnyland Slim, Mississippi Heat, Paul de Lay, Maurice John Vaughn, and Hubert Sumlin among others.
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Jun 11, 2010 - Jun 13, 2010
Friday, June 11, 2010, 5 - 10pm
Three outrageous days of ribs, music and fun for the whole family. Partake in 20 bands, 65,000 pounds of ribs. It doesn't get any better than this. Kick off the summer at Ribfest Chicago! What started in 1999 as a community block party has exploded into Chicago's most anticipated street festival. This hot summer event offers something for everyone -- rib aficionados can vote for the restaurant with the "Best Ribs," not to mention, fest goers can also honor restaurants with a "Fest Fave" award (favorite food item at the festival) and "Hot Off the Grill" award (best overall griller). Love to dance in the streets? In true Ribfest tradition, we're bringing you some of the best music you'll hear all summer -- and won't hear at other festivals! Bring the kids! Our famous Kids Square provides hours of entertainment for kids of all ages . . . allowing children to slide, climb, run, complete, jump, ride, sing and dance all weekend long. Ribfest Chicago promises to provide a memorable weekend of lively music, family fun and satisfied appetites as we celebrate ten years of unforgettable barbecue.
Soleil's Take: I haven't heard of a single band in their lineup, but that's okay 'cuz all I really need is some sunshine and toothpicks!
Price: A suggested $5 donation
Other Times To-Do It: June 11 - 13, 2010
Friday, June 11, 2010, 5:30 - 8pm
Join Chef Cordell as his 4-course tasting menu revisits WineStyles', PERFECT wine pairings, creating a GREAT environment and wonderful experience! YOU made it popular, now let's make it CLASSIC! Eat, drink, and ENJOY!! PLEASE RSVP by email to ChefCordell@gmail.com ASAP, as space is limited (the first 40 people). Thanks, and ENJOY!!!
Relax, this is my PASSION!!
Price: $25
Friday, June 11, 2010, 6 - 8pm
The BARCC organization will target the 43rd Street Business Corridor as a starting place in addressing "quality of life issues": safety, security and the commercial desert in Bronzeville. Fridays, beginning in June 2010, we will engage in "Positive Loitering" at targeted locations on 43rd Street for a FRIDAY NIGHT OUT: TAKING BACK OUR COMMUNITY INITIATIVE.
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Fridays
Friday, June 11, 2010, 6 - 10pm
The Chicago Arts District hosts "2nd Fridays", the monthly opening receptions at the galleries and artists' studios centered around South Halsted and 18th Streets. This month, be sure to catch Jennifer Bridgeforth's exhibit "Clear Thinking-Artistry on Glass" at the Phoenix Gallery at 1829 South Halsted. This artistic display encompasses abstract work on non - traditional mediums that include glass, acrylic, and plexiglass. Come meet the artist, and enjoy the opportunity to experience extraordinary people and extrordinary work. Thursday (6/10) is the collectors champagne reception, and Friday (6/11) is the 2nd Fridays event and public opening. Both nights are from 6-10pm. Please RSVP for Thursday; It is not needed for Friday's public event. For all inquiries and to RSVP, please contact us at events@phoenixgroupchicago.com.
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: 2nd Fridays
Friday, June 11, 2010, 7 - 9:30pm
A striking figure among today's jazz singers, Tammy McCann's larger than life voice breathes new life into the American songbook.
Price: Free!
Friday, June 11, 2010, 8pm - 2am
Saturday, June 12, 2010, 8pm - 2am
This man has been truly been touched by the hand of God. He has made a name for himself by giving his time unselfishly to touch the hearts of many through music. Walter has performed with Detour, Phat Katz and was a part of an opening act for Aretha Franklin. Walter is the co-writer of "Stand Up" a song performed by Jennifer Hudson.
Price: $5
Other Times To-Do It: Friday and Saturday
Friday, June 11, 2010, 8pm - 12am
Looking for something different To-Do on a Friday night? Get your hands dirty in the Ceramics Studio, enjoy drink specials from the cash bar, explore the exhibitions and dance all night in the Main Gallery. All art supplies are included and proceeds benefit HPAC programming. Bring your friends!
Frank has recorded five CDs with Chicago guitarist Henry Johnson, whose CDs garnered five star ratings in Down Beat Magazine and who received number one status in radio airplay across the country. Russell co-wrote the title song for Johnson's second CD Future Excursions, and also recorded a song with Johnson on a CD featuring the music of Earth, Wind & Fire entitled Smooth Elements, which includes such artists as Stanley Turrentine, Larry Coryell, Phil Perry, and Earth Wind & Fire. He is also listed in the bass instructional book Funk Bass by Jon Liebman with some of the top bassist in his field. Russell's real love is live performance, where he soars.
Soleil's Take: What a cute idea!!! And how cool that they're keeping the gallery open 'til midnight - you gotta check this one out! Specialty cocktails by Chant in Hyde Park. View more Passport to Jazz To-Dos!
Price: Free! (Donations Suggested)
Other Times To-Do It: Second Fridays
Friday, June 11, 2010, 8:30pm - 12:30am
Conjúnto's sancocho of Afro-Cuban, Puerto Rican, and jazz elements has attracted critical acclaim and loyal audiences everywhere they've played, be it the heart of el barrio or the most demanding new music venue. Moving confidently from Afro-roots to intricate improvisation, Conjúnto engages mind and body with their polyrhythmic intricacy, thoughtful arrangements, and virtuoso soloing. Conjúnto has performed at clubs and festivals all over Chicago.
Price: $10, Wednesday - Thursday; $20, Friday & Saturday; $5, Sunday
Other Times To-Do It: Wednesday - Sunday nights
Saturday, June 12, 2010, 8am - 10pm
AAMBC (African Americans on the Move Book Club) is hosting a highly anticipated literary event that will bring readers and authors together in a more personal setting. Registration includes Breakfast, Gift Bag with complimentary Book, Author Book Signings, Dinner and Poetry Showcase.
Price: $145
Saturday, June 12, 2010, 7 - 11am
Millennium Park and McDonald's invite Chicagoans and visitors to kick off their weekends with energizing workouts on the Great Lawn of the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Workouts are open to people with all levels of experience, are 45 minutes long., Each week, instructors from will lead classes in Tai Chi at 7 a.m., Yoga sessions at 8 a.m., Pilates workouts at 9 a.m. and Dance Aerobics at 10 a.m. New this year will be live music during the yoga and Pilates classes, played over Millennium Park's state-of-the-art sound system.
Soleil's Take: This is such a cool way to start a Saturday morning! At 7am, the city is very still and peaceful - it's a very tranquil experience. Grab your mats and go!
Miscellaneous Info: Saturdays, June 5, 12, 19 7 AM: Stirling Tai Chi Society 8 AM: Moksha Yoga Center - Becky Raines, 9 AM: Flow Studio - Cindy Reid, 10 AM: Isla Pacifika (Learn the fast-paced basics of Tahitian dance), Music by DhakFu from 8-10 AM
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Saturdays, June 5 - September 11, 2010
Saturday, June 12, 2010, 8am - 1pm
The Bronzeville Community Market, the first of its kind in the City of Chicago and now in its third year, 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!
Other Times To-Do It: Saturdays through October 30
Saturday, June 12, 2010, 8am - 1pm
Thirty-four years makes this one of the pioneer lakefront charity events. Yes, it's a fundraiser, but don't let that fool you, it's a fun-raiser, too. You'll have fun visiting our outdoor bazaar with food (delicious), games (for the entire family) and entertainment (wholesome). The goal for this year's WJBAT is to raise $250,000 to continue the specialized services that we offer to the community. The WJBAT is SCDAI's major fundraiser for the year, Its financial success depends on the support of the community. This year HEAVY emphasis is being place on TEAM PARTICIPATION. Of course, if you prefer to just kick up your heels and lounge about on the grass, or stick your toes in Lake Michigan, that's OK, too. We can't imagine a better trade-off: You have the fun, SCDAI gets the funds!, At the end of the day everybody will have enjoyed a good time doing a good thing for folks with sickle cell disease. For them, there are very few pain-free days.
Soleil's Take: I am SURE that Saturday is going to be a beautiful day, so get your butt out in and support this cause! There's no time to be a renegade at this one, so don't walk, run or ride along like you registered if you didn't. :|
Door: $75
Advance: $50
Saturday, June 12, 2010, 10am - 6pm
The Printers Row Lit Fest was founded in 1985 by the Near South Planning Board to attract visitors to the Printers Row neighborhood (once the city's bookmaking hub). By 2002, it had grown to five city blocks (on Dearborn, from Congress to Polk), attracting more than 200 booksellers from across the country displaying new, used and antiquarian books, and featuring seven stages with more than 100 free literary programs. As part of its ongoing commitment to the written word and its support of literacy and literary endeavor, the Chicago Tribune purchased the Printers Row Book Fair in 2002 from the Near South Planning Board. Recently renamed to be the Printer's Row Lit Fest, it is considered the largest free outdoor literary event in the Midwest-drawing more than 125,000 book lovers to the two-day showcase. Booksellers, publishers, literacy and cultural organizations sell and promote books and book-related merchandise and distribute related information. Many of the independent booksellers participating in the Fair represent the diverse ethnic and cultural communities of the Chicagoland area and sell books of different languages and genres.
Soleil's Take: Note that some events require advance registration and/or payment.
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: June 12-13, 2010
Saturday, June 12, 2010, 11am - 10pm
This is one of the region's most eagerly anticipated and well-established summer festivals. Now in its 45th year, each year approximately 50,000 people gather on Clark Street to enjoy great international food, stellar family activities, lively entertainment on four stages, and over 100 quality artisans showcasing their wares., A special family area includes face painting, games and a family stage with entertainment such as Nordic Folk dancers, the Jesse White Tumblers, a pet parade and much more. The other three stages are filled all day with spirited music, including nationally renowned acts, guaranteed to get the crowd dancing.
Price: $5 suggested donation
Other Times To-Do It: June 12 - 13, 2010
Saturday, June 12, 2010, 11am - 2pm
Chicago's Downtown Farmstand is filled with wonderful garden-fresh produce and it is time to enjoy every one of them to the fullest. Our focus will be on new recipes for old favorites but we'll investigate some things you may never have used before, too!
Soleil's Take: No demos here - this is a hands-on learning experience! The classes are quite popular and generally sell out early, so don't delay! View more World Kitchen To-Dos.
Saturday, June 12, 2010, 12 - 2pm
Hosted by ESSENCE contributing editor Tasha Turner with special guest LisaRaye McCoy. Learn how to create a polished look from head to toe from Essence Editors, including Beauty Directory Corynne Corbett, Editor-At-Large Mikki Taylor and Contributing Editor Tash Turner., Enter for your chance to be featured in a Dark and Lovely ad in ESSENCE, win a $5000 shopping spree in New York City and a makeover from a celebrity stylist.
Miscellaneous Info: RSVP to Events@Essence.com - and be sure to reference the City of Chicago!
Price: Free!
Saturday, June 12, 2010, 7 - 11pm
Join The Legacy Initiative for our first in a monthly series of Legacy Initiative fundraisers we've named The Legacy Experience., This kick-off event will be held at the contemporary Sutton Place Hotel in downtown Chicago. The music for the evening will be provided by DJ Mustafa Rocks. The night begins with a complimentary cocktail hour that starts at 7pm. Followed by a musical performance by the eclectic, soulful sounds of songstress Koku Gonza and her live band. DJ Mustafa Rocks takes us home with his trendsetting, distinct mixes. Complimentary hors d'oeurves and dessert by Lizzie's Confections will be served. A full cash bar will be available for drink purchases. You do not want to miss this. Come support this Movement and enjoy an evening amongst like-minded, mature and professional adults. These events will be RSVP only and will fill up fast. Don't delay in securing your place.
Price: $32
Saturday, June 12, 2010, 7 - 11pm
Al Jarreau's unique vocal style is one of the world's most precious treasures. His innovative musical expressions have made him one of the most exciting and critically-acclaimed performers of our time with five Grammy Awards, scores of international music awards and popular accolades worldwide.
Soleil's Take: I LOVE Al Jarreau, but have never seen him perform live. I think this city gal is about to head out to the burbs! View the complete Country Club Hills Theater schedule!
Miscellaneous Info: Section B $75, Sections A,C,D $65, Stadium(E&F)$55, Lawn $50, Pavilion $25 View complete Country Club Hills Theater schedule!
Other Times To-Do It: Saturdays, June 5 - August 28
Back In The Day
Saturday, June 12, 2010, 8 - 10pm
A 1960's Chicago High School Musical about family, friends & teen pregnancy. Enjoy the time, the music & ole school dance styles. But the message is still relevant.
Price: $30
Other Times To-Do It: Saturdays and Sundays, June 12 - 27, 2010
Saturday, June 12, 2010, 8:30pm - 12:30am
ICE was founded in 2001, and over the past nine years has established itself as one of the leading musical ensembles of its generation as well as one of the most innovative young arts organizations in the US. ICE was awarded the 2010 Trailblazer Award from the American Music Center for its revolutionary organizational model, which combines the traditional roles of performer, presenter, and artist management into a unified whole with a single creative and social vision, setting a bold new standard for the future of music in the 21st century.
Price: $10, Wednesday - Thursday; $20, Friday & Saturday; $5, Sunday
Other Times To-Do It: Wednesday - Sunday nights
Sunday, June 13, 2010, 2 - 4pm
On October 30, 1969, Pete O'Neal, a young Black Panther in Kansas City, Missouri, was arrested for transporting a gun across state lines. One year later, O'Neal fled the charge, and for over 30 years, he has lived in Tanzania, one of the last American exiles from an era when activists considered themselves at war with the U.S. government. Today, this community organizer confronts very different challenges and finds himself living between two worlds - America and Africa, his radical past and his uncertain future.
Price: Free!
More info: www.dusablemuseum.org
Sunday, June 13, 2010, 8 - 11:30pm
Jazz and Blues pianist, organist, composer and arranger Hal Tsuchida has studied under Willie Pickens at Northern Illinois Univeristy and received his masters out of DePaul University in Jazz Studies., As a Blues pianist he has played with numerous bands. He has performed at the Chicago Hope Festival, Chicago Blues Festival, Waterfront blues Festival, Baltimore Blues Festival and the Taste Of Chicago.
Price: $10; Students, $5
Sunday, June 13, 2010, 8:30pm - 12:30am
Isaiah Spencer was born in Chicago, Illinois. Isaiah attended George Manierre Elementary for grade school. In third grade, he joined the elementary school band, but not to play drums. The drums were occupied for his first 3 years, so he played trumpet in the band for this period of time. Isaiah played drums in church on Sundays during this time. During the start of fifth grade, Isaiah got his opportunity to play drums in the band, and excelled. His rapid growth led his band director to recommend him to the MERIT music program, a program for grade and high school students who excel in music to study with professionals in the music field. Isaiah received a tuition-free scholarship to attend The MERIT school. Since 1998, Isaiah has been an active figure in the Chicago scene, while being recognized as one of the "young lions".
Price: $10, Wednesday - Thursday; $20, Friday & Saturday; $5, Sunday
Other Times To-Do It: Wednesday - Sunday nights
Monday, June 14, 2010, 7 - 10pm
Michael Ross, born in Chicago, Illinois was encouraged at an early age to take private guitar lessons at the Chicago School of Music. While advancing his studies in music, Michael has played some of Chicago's local jazz clubs. His first big break was becoming a staff guitarist for the first New York Broadway National Touring Company's production of "The Wiz," that toured across the United States. Michael's sound is true to the heart, filled with emotions, style, technique. His creative abilities allow him to tell a story and go beyond normal boundaries. Giving his listeners only the best!!!
Price: $15; 10 or more, $12 (group reservations recommended)
Other Times To-Do It: Second Monday of each month
Venue Info: Light fare available.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010, 5:30 - 8pm
Hanah John Taylor is a veteran member of the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM). In 1990, he was commissioned by the University of Chicago to organize and direct its first improvisational jazz orchestra.
Soleil's Take: View the complete Tuesdays On the Terrace schedule!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: June 1 - September 28, 2010
Tuesday, June 15, 2010, 6 - 8pm
Chicago Community Ventures is pleased to announce the launch of our Entrepreneur Meets (E-Meets) Group. What is our E-Meets group? It's kind of like networking only better and much more helpful. E-Meets is a peer-to-peer group of entrepreneurs where you can learn, be inspired, and teach. Great for those wanting to start their own business and those already in business. Featured June Presenter: Connie Spencer is a business attorney and entrepreneur. Along with her husband Nick, they formed Spencer Foods Inc. A company that produces and distributes British and Irish style foods. Connie will be presenting on business entity formation and answering questions., Moderator: Tom Cassell will be moderating the evening. Tom is a Business Coach with Chicago Community Ventures. He has helped many Chicago area businesses get started and grow. He has owned several small businesses., Food and beverage will be served.
Price: $5 Suggested Donation
Other Times To-Do It: Monthly - Second Tuesdays
Tuesday, June 15, 2010, 6 - 8pm
Route 66 made its spectacular debut in 1994 in The Netherlands and proved to be a success in a wide variety of venues all over Europe. Founder Leslie Gray Robbins returned to the United States in 1996 and re-created this successful group here in Chicago. Performing music styles ranging from the 1940s through present day, Route 66 continues to perform at a wide range of venues, from big to small, intimate to fun- filled, around Chicagoland and all across the U.S.A.
Soleil's Take: View the complete Music On the Esplanade schedule!
Price: Free! (Parking, $20 per car)
Other Times To-Do It: Tuesdays, June 8 - August 31, 2010
Tuesday, June 15, 2010, 6 - 8pm
Speaker: John Mautner, Everything you do in your business is a process; the way you market, sell, serve customers, process invoices and even answer the phone! Learn how to improve profitability by making your people and processes effective and efficient. This workshop is a MUST for owners looking to make or improve profits!!
Price: $25
Tuesday, June 15, 2010, 6 - 11pm
Your host for the evening is Chat Daddy. This event is open to all mature singles- 30 yrs and up. My goal each week is to heighten the chemistry between the singles while offering dating tips that will aid in raising the bar for better relationships. Each week guests should come prepared to meet new friends, play singles games, meet relationship authors, experts and vendors.
Miscellaneous Info: Complimentary Admission Parking & Appetizers (7-9p.m.). Cash Bar w/ Drink Specials.
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Tuesdays
Tuesday, June 15, 2010, 7 - 10pm
The musical genre is smooth adult alternative. Nightwind is a hybrid of musical genres imaginatively charged by many influences.
Author/Artist/Performer Website: nightwindmusic.com
Doors Open: 5pm
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Live Music Tuesdays & Wednesdays
Tuesday, June 15, 2010, 8 - 10pm
Rajiv Halim Orozco is a young, up and coming saxophonist, composer, bandleader, and educator who's musical curiosity began at the young age of 8. He started to seriously study jazz, improvisation, and creative music in his junior year of high school. During his senior year of high school, he had the opportunity to take part in a jazz performance program at Gallery 37 Center for the Arts in downtown Chicago (one of 9 performing arts high schools sponsored by the The Thelonius Monk Institute of Jazz). During spring break of 2008, the Gallery 37 Jazz Performance class traveled to Salt Lake City, Utah, on tour with world-renowned recording artist Antonio Hart and world-class vocalist Lisa Henry. They performed at four SLC public high schools and performed in Ogden, Utah, at the Wine Cellar Jazz Club. The education Rajiv received at Gallery 37 is what sparked his musical curiosity and drive to get better as a musician.
Price: $10; $5, Students and Musicians
Other Times To-Do It: Sets at 8 and 10 Mon-Sat
Wednesday, June 16, 2010, 6 - 9pm
This singer/songwriter has wowed many with her sultry sound. Born in Chicago, a city known for producing some of the industry's greats, Candice Marie was predestined to be blessed with the talent to captivate any audience with her voice. From playing the shy, innocent Dorothy in the hit play "The Wiz Chicago Style", to playing the deathly ill little Sarah in the stage production of "I'm Goin' In", this upcoming starlet has become a triple threat in her own right.
Soleil's Take: At the Summer Breeze series, you can expect not only great music, but also a mature crowd at an age range of about 30-55. No lines around the block, no kids, no fights - no charge! Enjoy the music both in and outdoors at this venue.
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Wednesdays
Wednesday, June 16, 2010, 7 - 10pm
Corey Wilkes A young lion with a roar being heard in several music genres; Corey Wilkes burst onto the music scene in 2002 and landed in the soul of the Chicago Jazz Club scene. For his next feat he took on the ghost of Lester Bowie and filled the vacant trumpet seat in the Art Ensemble of Chicago. Big shoes to fill for a new musician but Corey isn't an ordinary musician. He began at the age of 10, made the Illinois All State Honors Jazz Combo in high school and honed his talent at Berklee College of Music.
Robert Irving came to the Miles Davis collaboration as a musical storyteller. Through Miles' mentoring-beginning in 1979 and lasting until his death in 1991-Irving became an accomplished acoustic jazz pianist through the application and interpretation of conceptual lessons he learned from the iconic jazz great.
Price: Free!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010, 7 - 10pm
Thirty-something-year-old Chicago-based saxophonist, composer and bandleader Chris Greene is no overnight sensation. CGQ features Greene on tenor and soprano saxophone, Damian Espinosa on primarily acoustic piano (but also occasionally on electric keyboard), Marc Piane on acoustic bass and drummer Tyrone Blair. The CGQ has forged a unique sonic identity through the immediate personal chemistry these four remarkable musicians discovered when they first played together, and through subsequent steady work. In many ways, as Greene designed the band to be, they are a throwback to the classic Blue Note label jazz units - bands that featured stable personnel, hard-swinging and thought-provoking music, with a sensibility that was at one time rooted in the popular culture but was very definitely high-concept art; in other words, music for both body and mind.
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Live Music Tuesdays & Wednesdays
Wednesday, June 16, 2010, 7pm - 12am
At the age of five, Marqueal started playing the drums, which never stuck ". . . because I couldn't wait for drum lessons to be over so I could bang on the piano or play the vibes." Three years later, he began to play clarinet in the elementary school band. The four years of clarinet prepared him to play the instrument he wanted to play all along, the tenor saxophone. At 13, Marqueal moved to Kansas City and spent his high school years playing tenor in Jazz and Concert Band, oboe in the Orchestra, and keyboards in several local R&B and Hip Hop groups. In 1989, he attended the University of Kansas and started taking music seriously, performing in the KU Jazz Ensemble and playing in bar bands on weekends.
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Wednesdays & Thursdays
Wednesday, June 16, 2010, 8:30pm - 12:30am
Chicago saxophonist Edwin Daugherty is an influential innovator on the experimental and acid jazz scene. A versatile and accomplished working musician, Edwin has performed with a wide range of artists from Quincy Jones to BB King and James Brown. Ari Brown, a popular tenor saxophonist/pianist is an important member of the Chicago avant-garde jazz scene, and a veteran sideman, though few albums have been recorded in his name. His technique and traditional jazz chops are excellent and highly expressive on both of his instruments. Critics call Brown "A terrific saxophonist with a deep understanding of both bop's complex rhythms and the wild expressionism of free jazz."
Price: $10, Wednesday - Thursday; $20, Friday & Saturday; $5, Sunday
Wednesday, June 16, 2010, 8:30 - 11pm
Born and raised in Morocco, Brahim Fribgane brings to his music the rich and varied musical styles he grew up with - North African, Gnawa, Berber, Arabic and Andulusian music. His oud style ranges from the clear, "singable" melodies of folkloric Berber songs to beautifully complex and soulful Arabic music, to the fusion of jazz, samba, reggae or Indian music. When Brahim picks up any of the numerous percussion instruments he favors, it's tough to sit still. And his singing voice is straightforward and honest. Brahim sings his songs, and you get the message. A remarkably creative and diverse musician, Brahim's music reflects his openness and appreciation of all cultures and their music.
Price: $5, Suggested Donation
Throughout all his art, Romare Bearden wove a rich tapestry of literary, biblical, mythological, popular culture, and western and non-western references informed by his African American cultural experiences. Possibly best known for his collage works, Bearden often worked and reworked those original images into astounding prints. He pushed the process with his artistic imagination using experimental techniques, sizes, and colors., The extraordinary versatility is visible in this exhibition's approximate 75 lithographs, etchings, and prints drawn from Bearden's three decades of graphic work. 
Congo Square Theatre presents George C. Wolfe groundbreaking comedy The Colored Museum. Join us for a hilarious romp through Black history, and take a ride on this fast paced journey that explores larger than life images of Black culture from the middle passage to the present. 
When the crowd goes home for the night, the real show begins! At least that's the case at one local Blues bar, where musicians gather after hours to swap stories and songs filled with passion, soul and an authentic love of the Blues that can't be described, but demands to be played. Inspired by Blues legends such as Muddy Waters, Ma Rainey, Sophie Tucker, Howlin' Wolf and Pearl Bailey, this low down dirty jam session pays tribute to a musical form that's steeped in Chicago history-and alive and thriving today! Get your tickets today for this Chicago Blues music extravaganza! 
FUERZA BRUTA LOOK UP is a non-stop collision of dynamic music, visceral emotion, and kinetic aerial imagery. Featuring mind-blowing visual effects that must be seen to be believed, FUERZA BRUTA: LOOK UP is a theatrical experience that floods the senses. Experience a 360° heart-pounding theatrical event, filled with flying dancers, pumping beats, engaging dream sequences and a multidimensional swimming pool above the heads of an audience who is standing on stage in the middle of the action. 
Mondays, 6-9pm
Thursdays, 6 - 8pm 
Fridays, 7:30 - 9:30pm 
