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Click on any headline link for details about the To-Do (e.g., location, ticket and artist links, discount codes) and to use advanced calendar features, such as e-mail or text reminders and to add To-Dos to your personal calendar! To-Dos are added daily, so be sure to visit www.so-LAZE.com for the most current listings!
Gallery Guichard - Works of Art by Robert Ketchens
Thursday, July 15, 2010, 6 - 9pm
To-Do!: Robert was born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, began his artistic studies as a medical illustrator with the United States Air Force. His military service as a Medical Illustrator in Biloxi, Mississippi and at the USAF Hospital in Wiesbaden, Germany laid the groundwork for his studies in fine art in Germany, where he visited the various art museums throughout Europe; he became enraptured with what he saw. He enrolled in the Atelier of Herr Herzfield, a local German artist, where he learned to master the practical aspects of easel painting, from canvas preparation to color mixing and glazing. Robert's philosophy is: Artists are communicators of an array of ideas, emotions, opinions, facts and frauds. It is my intent to establish an unremitting dialog between the viewer and my work.
Miscellaneous Info: 7:30pm Artist Talk
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: July 15, 2010 - September 15, 2010
Reflections of Ebony - Closing Discussions
Thursday, July 15, 2010, 6 - 8pm
To-Do!: This group exhibition features the notable, David Jenkins & Kenyatta (a photographer from Belgium.) The show also includes the following gifted photographers: Matt Woods, Ben Mays, Lamont Hamilton, Tony Collins, Ebony Rose, Prudence Story, Shabazz Fernando, and Jessica Censotti, The exhibition is curated by Fanta Celah.
Price: Free!
nextStep: How to Start a Not-For-Profit Business Part II
Thursday, July 15, 2010, 6 - 8pm
To-Do!: Speaker: Otis Monroe, This class is to be taken after the "How to Start a Not-For-Profit Business Part I" (7/8/10), Learn how to apply for Tax Exempt 501(c)(3) from the I.R.S Review I.R.S Form 1023-Application for Tax Exempt Recognition Review Exempt Organization Report Requirements - I.R.S. Form 889 Learn what Exempt Organizations can do and cannot do to keep from losing exempt status
Price: $25
SummerDance: Soham Dance Space f/ Red Baraat
Thursday, July 15, 2010, 6 - 9:30pm
To-Do!: Led by drummer Sunny Jain, Red Baraat is the first and only dhol 'n' brass band of its kind in the States, melding the infectious North Indian rhythm Bhangra with brass funk and expressing the human spirit through improvisation and a powerful live sound. Comprised of dhol (double-sided, barrel-shaped North Indian drum slung over one shoulder), percussion and horns, this NYC-based group plays fresh originals, as well as traditional Punjabi songs and Bollywood numbers with an explosive stage performance and presence.
Soleil's Take: The dance floor has gotten a little tight as this To-Do has grown in popularity, but it's still a fun time! SummerDance has expanded to 63rd Street Beach, Navy Pier, Athletic Field Park and Humboldt Park Boathouse. The view is beautiful at each of the locations, so get out there - and don't be afraid to try a new style of music and dance! More SummerDance Dates!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays - Sundays, June 17 - August 29, 2010
Music Without Borders Presents - Orchestre Poly-Rythmo de Cotonou with La 33
Thursday, July 15, 2010, 6:30 - 9pm
To-Do!: Given the size of the tiny country one could think that Poly-Rythmo must have been too big a fish for such a small pond, but the more one understand Benin's culture and traditions the more it appears that a phenomenon such as Orchestre Poly-Rythmo couldn't have happened anywhere else. Some of the planet's most exciting rhythms are related to the complex Vodoun Religion born in Benin. Those rhythms, supported by chants and dances, have been transmitted from generation to generation and are still being performed to this date - a few hundred years after they were created. The composers and arrangers of Orchestre Poly-Rythmo understood that they were surrounded by a gold mine of inspirational sounds which, if modernised and mixed in with whatever was in fashion at that particular moment, could have a strong impact on the urban population.
Soleil's Take: View the entire Music Without Borders series!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays, June 3 - July 22, 2010
Organic Groov: Jackiem Joyner
Thursday, July 15, 2010, 7pm - 12am
To-Do!: Born in 1980 in Norfolk, Virginia, Joyner inherited some of his musical gifts from his professional bass player father, but grew up in a single parent household and developed most of his musical sensibilities from singing in the church choir and playing drums behind uptempo gospel songs. After moving to Buffalo, New York during middle school, the young musician was told he'd "look good" playing the sax when he got to high school and immediately took to his new instrument. Eager to play for as many people as possible., Back when Jackiem Joyner was gigging on tour with Marcus Johnson and Bobby Lyle from 2001-2004, the two contemporary jazz keyboard greats came up with the perfect nickname for the rising saxman and his ultra-sensual, easy flowing vibe. "Ladies and Gentlemen," they'd shout out, "give it up for Lil' Man Soul!"-something urban jazz fans have been doing since Joyner broke through to genre stardom with his solo debut album Babysoul in 2007.
Price: $20
Sole Side Thursdays
Thursday, July 15, 2010, 8pm - 1am
To-Do!: w the dynamic duo Just My Brother (Phenom & YAW) featuring a live band! Special Guests for the evening will be Soltre James and Anton Genius! You don't want to miss the July Edition, because we will be featuring new music, Joe Kollege will be in the building with our resident DJ "GT", Afrodisiak clothing line is in the building, and some of our "friends" might stop through and share the Love!
Door: $5
Saalik Ziyad
Thursday, July 15, 2010, 8:30pm - 12:30am
To-Do!: Unique name. Unforgettable voice. Saalik Ziyad, a native Chicagoan born in 1978, began singing at the age of seven. His unique style of song creates deep, melodic vocals that many who have witnessed his craft, soon not forget. His first introduction to music was when he was accepted as a member of the Chicago Children's Choir. This experience opened the door to opportunities to perform with many musical greats including Charlie Haden, Amina Claudine Myers, Willie Pickens, and renowned institutions such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
Price: $10, Wednesday - Thursday; $20, Friday & Saturday; $5, Sunday
Other Times To-Do It: Wednesday - Sunday nights
Movies in the Parks: Tyler Perry's Daddy's Little Girls
Thursday, July 15, 2010, 8:30 - 10:30pm
To-Do!: A single father, Monty is a garage mechanic who lives in a poor neighborhood and struggles to make ends meet as he raises his three young daughters on his own. But when the courts award custody of his daughters to his corrupt, drug-dealing ex-wife, Monty desperately tries to win them back, enlisting the help of Julia, a beautiful--and hard-nosed--attorney he meets during his short stint as a chauffeur. While Monty and the Ivy-League-educated Julia couldn't be less alike, an unexpected romance blossoms, and it soon begins to feel like true love. But in order for their relationship to survive, the couple must reconcile their two very different worlds--and overcome the forces that threaten to tear Monty's family apart.
Soleil's Take: I've selected a few listings to include in the To-Dos, but visit the Chicago Park District website for MIP dates in a park near you!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: June 18 - September 10, 2010
Sapphire Solo Series: Kevin Okeith and Paul Branton
Friday, July 16, 2010, 6 - 9pm
To-Do!: Artist Talk, 7:30pm: Inner Visions to Outer Realities, Kevin Okeith. The jazz themes in his pieces are a direct result of his second love, music. He played the trumpet as a youth and feels that art and music are closely related. He says he feels the presence of a higher power and has no power to resist it any longer
Artist Talk, 8pm: To Dream In Color, Paul Branton was born in 1973 in Chicago. He was influenced at an early age by the sights & sounds of the south side's urban environment. Drawing, writing short stories & putting on plays with his sister quickly became a passion and a means of expressing himself. It was this passion that guided his education, which ultimately guided his career. His work has been exhibited throughout Chicago and hangs in private homes from New York to Los Angeles.
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: July 16, 2010 - August 10, 2010
SummerDance: Big City Swing f/ The Flat Cats
Friday, July 16, 2010, 6 - 9:30pm
To-Do!: The Flat Cats are one of Chicago's most exciting musical acts. The group is comprised of local musicians with years of performing, arranging, and composing experience and has a classic appeal of top quality musicianship, look, and spirit. The Flat Cats' blend of vintage and modern music including the hottest swinging jazz, jump blues, steamy standards, modern classics, ballads, and toe-tapping western swing is guaranteed to entertain.
Soleil's Take: More SummerDance Dates!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays - Sundays, June 17 - August 29, 2010
Historic Bronzeville Art District Third Friday Trolley Tour
Friday, July 16, 2010, 6 - 9pm
To-Do!: The Bronzeville Art District Third Friday 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. The tour includes the following galleries: Faié African Art in Bronzeville, 4317 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, Il, (773) 268-2889, Gallery Guichard, 3521 S. King Drive, Chicago, Il 60653, (773) 373-8000, South Side Community Art Center, 3831 S. Michigan Ave, Chicago, Il 60653, (773) 373-1026, Little Black Pearl Art & Design Center, 1060 East 47th Street, Chicago, Illinois, (773) 285-1211, Blanc Chicago, 4445 S. King Drive, Chicago IL, 60653, (773) 952-4394, and DuSable Museum, 740 East 56th Place, Chicago, Illinois, (773) 947-0600, The DuSable Museum of African American History.
Miscellaneous Info: Three trolleys will run continuously between each of the gallery locations, allowing riders to board and get off at any of the above locations!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Third Fridays through October
Friday Night Out: Taking Back Our Community Initiative
Friday, July 16, 2010, 6 - 8pm
To-Do!: 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
Concerts in the Parks: Latin Street 911
Friday, July 16, 2010, 6:30 - 8:30pm
To-Do!: 21 piece Orchestra plays the best in traditional tropical Latin Music. Perfoming their own original music and the all time hits of Perez Prado, Frankie Ruiz, Alvaro Carrillo & Rafael Hernadez, among others. A runaway Mambo Machine. 'The ensemble clearly ranks among the country's most persuasive performers of bolero, rumba, merengue and other afro-Caribbean musical forms' 'The 911 band has achieved an elusive balance between a robust performance style and a high degree of ensemble precision.
Soleil's Take: View more Concerts in the Parks dates, but visit the Chicago Park District website for dates in a park near you!
Price: Free!
Concerts in the Parks: Alex Abbey, Jonny Rumble, and Andre Williams & the Goldstars
Friday, July 16, 2010, 7 - 9pm
7 pm - Alex Abbey [acoustic music] 7:30 pm - Jonny Rumble [rock] 8:45pm - Andre Williams & the Goldstars [blues]
To-Do!: With a mind-boggling 50-year career in the music business, 70-year old Andre Williams is showing no signs of slowing down. The original rapper and R&B performer returns to his soulful roots on Aphrodisiac, enlisting the Diplomats of Solid Sound as his backing band on this diverse an adventurous offering. Hints of blues, rock, R&B, rap and soul fill the grooves of this release that flows seamlessly from start to finish. Andres voice never sounded better as he tackles topics ranging from alcoholism (Im Not Worthy), Hurricane Katrina (Thee Sisters), rejection (I Can See), and love (Do You Remember). But its also a fun, masterfully produced album that will transfix both past Andre fans and new listeners. Recorded in Iowa City, this is the real deal from the Black Godfather.
Soleil's Take: View more Concerts in the Parks dates, but visit the Chicago Park District website for dates in a park near you!
Price: Free!
Global Groove Chicago: Las Guitarras de Espana with Friends
Friday, July 16, 2010, 8 - 11pm
To-Do!: Las Guitarras de España & Global Groove Chicago present an evening of Spanish guitar influenced world music and dance with some great guest artists., The line-up will include artists who have toured and worked with some world class acts! Flamenco Dancer, Timo Lozano (Jose Greco), Guitarist, Colin Bunn (Andrew Bird), Violinist Steve Gibons (Gypsy Rhythm Project), Indian/jazz Vocalist Satya Gummuluri (Satya), Percussionist, Kassandra Kocoshis (Idilio), Guitarist Diego Alonso (Idilio), and Bassist Greg Nergaard (The Right Now) join the Las Guitarras de España ensemble including Patricia Ortega (Vocalist), Wendy Clinard (Dancer), and Carlo Basile (Guitarist) for a performance that will feature a variety of artistic collaborations.
Price: $15-25
Brian Danzy Band
Friday, July 16, 2010, 8pm - 2am
Saturday, July 17, 2010, 10pm - 4am
To-Do!: Brian has been a performing keyboardist for over 30 years, starting out in the Gospel field at the age of 12. In 1985, his musical talents earned him the opportunity to share his gifts with a wider audience when he began touring with the world-renowned Staples Singers. He has since developed a stellar career, performing and touring with such noted artists as The Emotions, Patti Labelle, Anita Baker and Art Porter, to name just a few. His keyboard talents were recently featured on the 2007 All-Star Smooth Jazz Tour, performing with Brian Culberson, Nick Colionne and other nationally known jazz artists. Brian is also a wonderful vocalist, many times being compared to artists like Al Jarreau or George Benson with his silky, smooth voice.
Price: $5
Other Times To-Do It: Friday and Saturday
Movies in the Parks: The Wiz
Friday, July 16, 2010, 8:15 - 10:15pm
To-Do!: The Wiz was adapted from the 1975 Broadway musical of the same name. The film follows the adventures of Dorothy, a shy schoolteacher from Harlem, New York who finds herself magically transported to the wonderland of Oz, which resembles a fantasy version of New York City. Befriended by a Scarecrow, a Tin Man, and a Cowardly Lion, Dorothy travels through the world of Oz to seek an audience with the mysterious "Wiz", who they say has the power to take her home.
Soleil's Take: I've selected a few listings to include in the To-Dos, but visit the Chicago Park District website for MIP dates in a park near you!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: June 18 - September 10, 2010
Douglas Ewart & the Nyahbingi Drum Choir
Friday, July 16, 2010, 8:30pm - 12:30am
To-Do!: Douglas R. Ewart born in Kingston, Jamaica, 1946 is a multi-instrumentalist and instrument builder. He plays sopranino and alto saxophones, clarinets, bassoon, flute, bamboo flutes and didgeridoo as well as Rastafarian hand drums (nyabingi, repeater, and bass). Ewart immigrated to the United States in June 1963 coming to Chicago and became associated with the (AACM) in 1967. The kaleidoscopic talent of Douglas Ewart has expressed itself in so many forms--instruments that double as sculptures, music that combines the traditions of four continents with fresh inventions, masks and costumes fit for rituals ominous or joyous, death-defying improvisations combining master musicianship and acting-that the whole might be mistaken for the work of a small culture rather than one man.
Price: $10, Wednesday - Thursday; $20, Friday & Saturday; $5, Sunday
Other Times To-Do It: Wednesday - Sunday nights
Sting! ***SOLD OUT***
Saturday, July 17, 2010, 5 - 11pm
To-Do!: Sting with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra featuring Maestro Steven Mercurio will appear on July 17 and 18 at Ravinia., Secure your seats for what could be the biggest event in Ravinia's history. Ravinia's donors always receive priority in accessing the best tickets to Ravinia concerts, and top priority is given to our most generous supporters. These landmark evenings promise unprecedented ticket demand from our donors. Please be aware that due to this demand we may only be able to fill orders for Pavilion seating at the Marquee donor level and above in the quantities listed below. We invite you to renew or upgrade your support at the following levels to be assured of Pavilion seating.
Soleil's Take: This will be his first Ravinia performance!, View our select Ravinia schedule!
SummerDance: Latin Rhythms f/ Grupo Rebolú
Saturday, July 17, 2010, 6 - 9:30pm
To-Do!: Directly from New York City, Grupo Rebolú specializes in the traditional sounds of the Carribean coast of Colombia. Founded by childhood friends Moris Cañate and Ronald Polo, both of the Grammy-nominated N.Y.C. based Folklore Urbano, Rebolú features original compositions set to traditional rhythms as well as a repertoire of songs hundreds of years old. Rebolú does not limit itself to folklore however. They are able to effortlessly incorporate other genres of Colombian and Latin American music such as Vallenato, Salsa, and even Calypso into their sound. The final result when Rebolú is firing on all cylinders is a musical and cultural experience like absolutely no other.
Soleil's Take: More SummerDance Dates!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays - Sundays, June 17 - August 29, 2010
Muntu Dance Theatre: Cultural Bridges
Saturday, July 17, 2010, 7pm
To-Do!: Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago presents "Cultural Bridges . . . The Pearl Primus Project". This concert showcases the company's stunning range as it presents historic premieres and classics from its repertoire which draws on the strength and beauty of traditional African and contemporary African American dance. The performance will feature two Company Premieres, "A Negro Speaks of Rivers" and "Hard Time Blues", both signature works by Dr. Pearl Primus. "A Negro Speaks of Rivers" was originally choreographed by Dr. Primus in 1944 and premiered by her company in 1945. The work includes text from the Langston Hughes' poem "A Negro Speaks of Rivers". "Hard Time Blues" premiered in 1945 and is based on a song about sharecroppers by folksinger Josh White. Muntu has been awarded an American Masterpieces Grant from the National Endowment for the Arts in support of this project and will be the first African dance company to receive and perform Dr. Primus' works.
Ralph Tresvent, Johnny Gill and Bobby Brown
Saturday, July 17, 2010, 7 - 11pm
To-Do!: Brownstone opens, View the complete Country Club Hills Theater schedule!
Miscellaneous Info: Sections A,B,C,D $95, Stadium(E&F)$65, Lawn $55, Pavilion $35
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 lets 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
Leni Stern
Saturday, July 17, 2010, 8 - 10pm
To-Do!: Leni Stern: guitar, voice, Brahim Fribgane: oud, percussion, Mamadou Ba: bass, Harvie Wirht: drumset, Born in Munich, Germany, Leni started playing piano at the age of six and guitar at eleven. At seventeen, she formed her own acting company, and her radical productions sold out houses across Europe. In 1977, she turned her attention to music and left for the United States to study film scoring at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. Scoring gave way to her love for guitar and in 1981, Leni moved to New York to play in a variety of rock and jazz bands. In 1983, she formed a group of her own with Paul Motion on drums and Bill Frisell on guitar. As a recording artist, she originally made a name for herself in jazz circles (her first nine albums were instrumental,) then crossed her talents over into the singer-songwriter realm, garnering consistent praise in the process.
Price: $22.00
Movies in the Parks: The Wiz
Saturday, July 17, 2010, 8:15 - 10:15pm
To-Do!: The Wiz was adapted from the 1975 Broadway musical of the same name. The film follows the adventures of Dorothy, a shy schoolteacher from Harlem, New York who finds herself magically transported to the wonderland of Oz, which resembles a fantasy version of New York City. Befriended by a Scarecrow, a Tin Man, and a Cowardly Lion, Dorothy travels through the world of Oz to seek an audience with the mysterious "Wiz", who they say has the power to take her home.
Soleil's Take: I've selected a few listings to include in the To-Dos, but visit the Chicago Park District website for MIP dates in a park near you!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: June 18 - September 10, 2010
The 3.5.7. Ensemble
Saturday, July 17, 2010, 8:30pm - 12:30am
To-Do!: A trio, a quintet, a septet, and more, the 357 Ensemble is our form of all other creative outlets. The group has many different shades and many different colors. It is large, loud, small and subtle. It is sounds and friends from far and near. It is life.
Price: $10, Wednesday - Thursday; $20, Friday & Saturday; $5, Sunday
Other Times To-Do It: Wednesday - Sunday nights
African Jubilee Film Festival: From a Whisper
Sunday, July 18, 2010, 2 - 4:30pm
To-Do!: From a Whisper, 80 mins, 2008., Director: Wanuri Kahiu, Country: Kenya, This film by celebrated, young Kenya filmmaker, Wanuri Kahiu, is an award winning drama about the real life events surrounding the twin terrorist bombings of the US Embassies in Nairobi, Kenya and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania on August 7, 1998. Kibera Kid, 12 mins, 2006., Director: Nathan Collette, Country: Kenya, This film is about an orphaned street boy named Otieno who lives in Kibera, one of the world's largest slums, located just outside of Nairobi. Otieno lives a life of crime with a notorious gang until, one day he is forced to make a crucial choice., Discussant: Evan Maina Mwangi, Northwestern University.
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Select Sundays through December 5, 2010
Smart Sounds featuring Julia Huff
Sunday, July 18, 2010, 2 - 4pm
To-Do!: Julia has masterfully honed her vocal skills to extreme heights and has been compared to musical starlets like Sarah Vaughn, Nancy Wilson, Carmen McRae, and even Tina Turner and Gladys Knight. Her engaging interaction with the audience will make you feel like you are part of the performance, not just listening to it. Julia, along with her sizzling trio will leave wanting more long after the show is over.
Soleil's Take: Soleil's Take: View more Passport to Jazz To-Dos!
Price: Free!
SummerDance: Fred Astaire Dance Studio f/ Steve Cooper Orchestra
Sunday, July 18, 2010, 6 - 9:30pm
To-Do!: The Steve Cooper Orchestra has been performing in the Chicago area for more than twenty years. Steve and the band perform the most loved songs by both swing and sweet bands and play the musical arrangements of Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Woody Herman, Count Basie, Sammy Kaye, Dick Jurgens, Eddie Howard, Chuck Foster, Jan Garber, Hal Kemp, Red Nichols, Bob Crosby and many others. The band also plays rock and roll tunes (in ballroom style) and songs from current Broadway shows and popular movies.
Soleil's Take: More SummerDance Dates!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays - Sundays, June 17 - August 29, 2010
Kenge Kenge
Sunday, July 18, 2010, 8 - 10pm
To-Do!: Introducing Kenge Kenge is an album of high-energy music and pulsing beat. The band work with traditional Luo instruments, from which the benga beat originally drew its sound, using the orutu (one-stringed fiddle) and the nyangile (gong), plus percussion, drums, horn and flute. Kenge Kenge bring together melodies and rhythms based on their traditional music and create songs on current topics in their own Luo language. The band was founded in the early 1990s by the late Amdo Jawaya and Samuel Nyariwo and the name translates from Luo into 'fusion of small, exhilarating instruments'. They started out as musicians for the Catering Levy Trust Choir but by the late 1990s had acquired new members, including their current leader, George Achieng, and began to create a more contemporary sound, focusing on the benga rhythm. Benga in Luo means 'something beautiful'. It originated with Luo musicians coming from the area around Lake Victoria in western Kenya and was strongly influenced by the dance rhythms of the Lingala music of the Congo. Originally popularised in the 1960s by Daniel Owino Mesiani, 'Grandfather of Benga ' and leader of Shirati Jazz, it has gone on to be played in clubs all over eastern and central Africa.
Price: $25
Sunday Jazz, f/ Marguerite Mariama Quintet
Sunday, July 18, 2010, 8 - 11:30pm
To-Do!: Dr. Marguerite Mariama is a triple threat (music, dance,theatre) artist and educator who specializes in African American Musical Culture. She has both national and international experience as a big band and small ensemble jazz and blues vocalist and has appeared in music festivals throughout the country.
Price: $10; Students, $5
Other Times To-Do It: Sundays
Isaiah Spencer
Sunday, July 18, 2010, 8:30pm - 12:30am
To-Do!: 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
Tuesdays at the Terrace: Matt Ulery (Loom)
Tuesday, July 20, 2010, 5:30 - 8pm
To-Do!: Matt Ulery is a Chicago based bassist and composer performing since the age of 14 years. Ulery has played many styles of music. These include the entire spectrum of jazz, classical, rock, pop, gospel, theatre, and folk - specifically American, South American, Balkan, and other European folk styles. He has performed not only on upright and electric bass, but has doubled on tuba and keyboards. Ulery earned his bachelor's degree in music composition at The Chicago College of Performing at Roosevelt University and has played in bands with Kurt Rosenwinkel, Jarek Bester, Fareed Haque, Howard Levy, Patricia Barber, Ron Perrillo, Jeff Parker, Rob Scheps, Zach Brock, and many others. When not touring parts of the U.S. and Europe with his groups, Matt appears regularly in the Chicago area music venues. Ulery is the leader of his own group, Loom, and a member, among others, of Eastern Blok, and the Grazyna Auguscik Group. Ulery has two releases under his name; "Music Box Ballerina"(2008) and "Themes and Scenes"(2009), and is releasing a new album with Loom in 2010.
Soleil's Take: View the complete Tuesdays On the Terrace schedule!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: June 1 - September 28, 2010
How to Get Media Coverage for Your Business
Tuesday, July 20, 2010, 6 - 8pm
To-Do!: Speaker: Sylvia Jones, Do you ever wonder how newspaper reporters choose the experts they cite in stories or how TV producers choose a product or service to feature on the morning news? Your business can get news coverage too, IF you know how to get it. In this workshop, you'll learn how to pitch a news story or capitalize on the news of the day. You'll also learn how to write an effective press release and get it into the hands of the right people. This workshop is for business owners who want to increase their visibility in the marketplace - for FREE!
Price: $25
Music On the Esplanade: The Special Consensus
Tuesday, July 20, 2010, 6 - 8pm
To-Do!: The Special Consensus is celebrating a banner year in 2010-the 35th anniversary of the formation of this nationally and internationally renowned touring and recording bluegrass band in Chicago (they formed in 1975). Band founder/leader/banjo player Greg Cahill still resides in the Chicago area; other members live in Nashville, Tennessee, and Topeka, Kansas. The band repertoire includes original songs written by band members and bluegrass classics performed on banjo, guitar, mandolin, and bass, with plenty of solo and harmony vocals.
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
Milton Suggs Trio
Tuesday, July 20, 2010, 7 - 10pm
To-Do!: Music has been an integral part of Milton's life from an early age. He grew up listening to an eclectic blend of music including jazz, R&B and rock. While in elementary and middle school, he played various instruments including the bass, the alto saxophone, and the drums. From these experiences Milton developed a love for, and discovered an intuition for, music that has aided in his growth and development as a musician. In 2001 at the age of 19, Milton returned to Chicago -- the city of his birth and early childhood -- to study with his godfather, renowned jazz pianist Willie Pickens. He enrolled at Columbia College Chicago where his passion for performance and arranging became evident. In May 2006, Milton graduated from Columbia College Chicago, where he was an active performer as a pianist and vocalist. In 2008 Milton graduated with a Masters degree in Jazz Studies from DePaul University. Currently Milton is devoting his time to improving as a pianist, a vocalist, and a composer/arranger while developing material to record in the near future.
Other Times To-Do It: Live Music Tuesdays & Wednesdays
"The Basics" Cooking Class (Adult Series)
Tuesday, July 20, 2010, 7 - 9pm
To-Do!: Join Passion's Cuisine for 6 information and excitement packed cooking classes for YOU, the beginner! We will cover various subjects and recipes designed to make you a "Home Pro" in 3 months! From soups and salads, party appetizers, to complete meals, learn from Chef Cordell on how to excel in the kitchen! Register ONLINE TODAY!!
Miscellaneous Info: 7/20/10 - Introduction to the Kitchen Basics, 7/27/10 - Salads, dressings, and vinaigrettes, 8/3/10 - Meats, poultry, marinades, and sauces, 8/10/10 - Seafood, marinades, and sauces, 8/17/10 - Breakfast, 8/24/10 - Appetizers
Price: $210 for all 6 (or $35 each session)
Other Times To-Do It: Tuesdays, July 20 - August 24, 2010
Movies in the Parks: The Fighting Temptations
Tuesday, July 20, 2010, 8:15 - 10:15pm
To-Do!: A New York advertising executive travels to a small Southern town to collect an inheritance but finds he must create a gospel choir and lead it to success before he can collect. He attempts to revive the churches choir with the help of a beautiful lounge singer with whom he soon falls in love.
Soleil's Take: I've selected a few listings to include in the To-Dos, but visit the Chicago Park District website for MIP dates in a park near you!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: June 18 - September 10, 2010
Jazzin' at the Shedd - Lake Effect
Wednesday, July 21, 2010, 5 - 10pm
To-Do!: Lake Effect is the exquisite smooth jazz band, co-created by Neil Artwick, keyboards; and Robert Davis on guitars. Elegant compositions with attention to melodic detail and compelling liquid grooves are the trademarks of the Lake Effect sound. Lake Effect features Khari Parker-drums, Lemar Jones-bass, and Larry Springfield-vocals. Together, they bring you a unique blend of R&B, Latin, soul and jazz.
Soleil's Take: View the entire Jazzin' at the Shedd schedule!
Price: $12; $10, Children
Other Times To-Do It: Wednesdays, June 23 - September 1, 2010
Wine & Cheese Tasting
Wednesday, July 21, 2010, 5:30 - 8pm
To-Do!: Explore the wonderful combination of wine and cheese. It's guaranteed to be a lively and fun experience. Bring friends and enjoy!!!! Call to RSVP!
Price: $12
Venue Info: Cozy. That's how I'd describe WineStyles in the South Loop. While fashioned like an old world wine cellar, with it's warm, inviting feel, it's almost like stepping into someone's kitchen! In addition to wine, shop for various wine-related accessories - and stay a while!
SummerDance: AfriCaribe f/ Bombazo: Grupo Yuba & Nuestro Tambó
Wednesday, July 21, 2010, 6 - 9:30pm
To-Do!: AfriCaribe is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, research, promotion and development of the Puerto Rican and Caribbean cultures through music, dance, theatre,and other artistic mediums., Grupo Yubá promotes Puerto Rican culture and folklore, and serves as an educational model for learning about Puerto Rico's African roots. Yubá is a leadership project that allows youth and adults of all ages an opportunity to develop and explore hidden artistic talents. Yubá teaches interpersonal skills through socialization with others within and outside their communities. Nuestro Tambó is comprised of second and third generation Puerto Rican men and women who hail from the inner-city of Chicago and have committed themselves to the promotion and celebration of the AfroPuerto Rican genres of Plena and Bomba. They compose original songs, incorporate their urban experience through the usage of elements such as rap and spoken word, and easily interchange instruments, microphones and dance space with one another as all of the members are interdisciplinary artists.
Soleil's Take: More SummerDance Dates!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Thursdays - Sundays, June 17 - August 29, 2010
Summer Breeze - Music In E Minor: Carlos Cannon
Wednesday, July 21, 2010, 6 - 9pm
To-Do!: At the age of 12, Carlos Cannon started playing the bass guitar in neighborhood bands and in high school. Inspired by the late Grover Washington Jr., Carlos Cannon eagerly picked up the alto saxophone and became the first chair player in the Paul Robeson high school jazz band in Chicago. Carlos Cannon went on to major in music performance at Illinois State University where he formed his own jazz band and took first place in the state jazz band competition. He later transferred to Roosevelt University and continued his musical studies. During his musical development, he became the Saxophonist extraordinaire, producer and songwriter that he is today.
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. Read more at Sun Spots: Chillin' at Summer Breeze!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Wednesdays
Chris Greene Quartet
Wednesday, July 21, 2010, 7 - 10pm
To-Do!: You and some friends stumble into a jazz club somewhere in Chicago. You are not quite familiar with the genre, but you have heard enough to know what to expect. You assume that the four guys who are preparing to play will do something that is mellow and cool, because that is what jazz musicians do. They will avoid anything that even resembles pop music, because that type of music has always been taboo in the more sophisticated jazz circles. But then the quartet begins to play, and you hear and see something that suddenly ruins all preconceived notions of what jazz music is supposed to be. The songs are spirited and melodic. The band's energy is contagious - enough so that the crowd is now standing and making an improvised dance floor out of the little bit of space in front of the band. More surprisingly, the crowd is composed of people who are young and old, black and white.
Other Times To-Do It: Live Music Tuesdays & Wednesdays
Amazing Jazz Duets: Marguerite Mariama and Michael Ross
Wednesday, July 21, 2010, 7 - 10pm
To-Do!: Marguerite Mariama is a triple threat (music, dance,theatre) artist and educator who specializes in African American Musical Culture. She has both national and international experience as a big band and small ensemble jazz and blues vocalist and has appeared in music festivals throughout the country., Michael Ross, born in Chicago, IL. 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 allows him to tell a story and go beyond normal boundaries. Giving his listeners only the best!!!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: Wednesdays
The B-52s
Wednesday, July 21, 2010, 8 - 11pm
To-Do!: The B-52s (originally formatted as The B-52's) are a New Wave rock band, formed in Athens, Georgia, United States, in 1976. In their heyday, their music was marked by the female harmonies of Cindy Wilson (vocals) and Kate Pierson (keyboards, vocals), Ricky Wilson's (guitar) surf-style guitar, Keith Strickland's (drummer) "go-go beat" drumming, and the generally spoken word or sprechgesang male vocal counterpoint of Fred Schneider (percussion, vocals). The resulting unique "guy vs. gals" vocals, sometimes used in call and response style (as in their songs "Private Idaho" and "Good Stuff"), are a trademark of the band. Presenting as a positive, enthusiastic, slightly wacky party band, the B-52s have focused on songs telling tall tales ("Rock Lobster", "Girl from Ipanema Goes to Greenland"), glorifying wild youth ("Love Shack", "Deadbeat Club"), or celebrating wild romance ("Strobe Light", "Hot Pants Explosion"), all set to a danceable New Wave beat. "
Soleil's Take: View our select Ravinia schedule!
Miscellaneous Info: special guest The Dirty Dozen Brass Band
Price: Reserved; $50, Lawn; 27, ($32 on day of concert)
Movies in the Parks: Tyler Perry's I Can Do Bad All By Myself
Wednesday, July 21, 2010, 8:15 - 10:15pm
To-Do!: When Madea, America's favorite pistol-packing grandma, catches sixteen-year-old Jennifer and her two younger brothers looting her home, she decides to take matters into her own hands and delivers the young delinquents to the only relative they have: their aunt April. A heavy-drinking nightclub singer who lives off of Raymond, her married boyfriend, April wants nothing to do with the kids. But her attitude begins to change when Sandino, a handsome Mexican immigrant looking for work, moves into April's basement room. Making amends for his own troubled past, Sandino challenges April to open her heart. And April soon realizes she must make the biggest choice of her life: between her old ways with Raymond and the new possibilities of family, faith... and even true love.
Soleil's Take: I've selected a few listings to include in the To-Dos, but visit the Chicago Park District website for MIP dates in a park near you!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: June 18 - September 10, 2010
Movies in the Parks: Tyler Perry's Madea's Family Reunion
Wednesday, July 21, 2010, 8:15 - 10:15pm
To-Do!: While planning her family reunion, the pistol-packing grandma, Mabel "Madea" Simmons, must contend with the other dramas on her plate, including the runaway who has been placed under her care, and her troubled nieces, half-sisters Lisa and Vanessa.
Soleil's Take: I've selected a few listings to include in the To-Dos, but visit the Chicago Park District website for MIP dates in a park near you!
Price: Free!
Other Times To-Do It: June 18 - September 10, 2010
Masters Series: Edwin Daugherty and Sonic Flow
Wednesday, July 21, 2010, 8:30pm - 12:30am
To-Do!: Chicago saxophonist Edwin Daugherty is an influential innovator on the experimental and acid jazz scene. He has appeared at the Jazz Showcase, Park West, Apollo Theater (N.Y.), Chicago Jazz Festival, Sons D'Hiver Music Fest (Paris), Umbria Jazz Festival (Italy) and numerous other venues in the United States and Europe. A versatile and accomplished working musician, Edwin has performed with a wide range of artists from Quincy Jones to BB King and James Brown. Edwin is a long time member of the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM) and as one of Chicago's top on call musicians, he has been recorded on all kinds of music and film projects. How is it that a band can simultaneously relax and excite it's listener with hidden dimensions that lift you to new environments? The answer may be found in Sonic Flow's accessibility. Four exotic instruments combine to deliver fresh sounds with a tinge of familiarity.
Price: $10, Wednesday - Thursday; $20, Friday & Saturday; $5, Sunday
Other Times To-Do It: Wednesday - Sunday nights
World Music Wednesdays: Lisandro Meza
Wednesday, July 21, 2010, 8:30 - 11pm
To-Do!: Celebrate the bi-centennial of Colombian independence with one of the true icons of Colombian folkloric music. Lisandro Meza is a master accordionist and vocalist in the tradition of Vallenato Sabanero who has been performing since the 1950s. He has had numerous hits both as a member of the legendary group Los Corraleros de Majagual and as a solo artist and continues to influence Colombian popular music to this day. He will perform alongside his son, vocalist and percussionist Juan José Meza. Opening will be Chicago's Colombian super group Grupo Cumbé and Tierra Colombiana Dance Company.
Price: $26-30
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.
July 1 - August 22, 2010 
June 27 - August 29, 2010 
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 
Saturdays, 8am - 1pm 
Saturday, June 12, 2010, 7 - 11am 
