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Conversations featuring authors and influential leaders in the arts, media and business.
Two new CONVERSATIONS this week and a favorite program From The Archive. First, an in-depth look at leadership and the launch this weekend of the new Spertus Institute series "Critical Conversations" with President and CEO, Dr. Hal M. Lewis. Next, we delve into the backstory with photographer Michael Brosilow, whose extensive archive includes the last 32 years at Steppenwolf and scores of other theaters and productions, large and small, in and out of Chicago.
Read MoreThe genesis of the idea for Critical Conversations, the spirited new Spertus Institute series debuting March 18th, was framed by another series of critical conversations between President & CEO Dr. Hal M. Lewis and former trustee, the late Eric Joss. They envisioned a series that would bring together strongly divergent perspectives on hot-button issues of the day under the Spertus philosophy that, above all, the conversations strive not to change opinions, but to enhance understanding of individual viewpoints with civility and respect for one another.
Read MoreOn any given day in the Chicago Tribune, the Chicago Sun Times or countless other publications in print or online, you will see powerful images by photographer Michael Brosilow. These are not breaking news photos, but they are breaking stories in a theatrical world that Brosilow has been a part of for over 32 years, capturing the rich textures, brilliant colors and the extraordinary personalities who create the work that appears on Chicago stages, and many others, across the country. He sees it before we do and his images last long after the play has drifted out of our memory.
Read MoreOur CONVERSATION this week is with Clifton Truman Daniel, the oldest grandson of President Harry S. Truman and Bess Truman and the son of author Margaret Truman. We delved into the legacy of President Truman, the backstory of his family's extraordinary 2012 trip to Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and the mission of the Truman Library and Institute in Independence, Missouri.
Read MoreIn and among all the fascinating information that you need to know about speaker, writer, activist, and now, actor, Clifton Truman Daniel, is that he happens to be the oldest grandson of President Harry S. Truman and Bess Truman and son of author Margaret Truman. As current custodian of the family legacy, he has contributed to expanding our understanding of Truman’s life with a lecture series, two books and continues a professional association with the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum and Truman Institute in Independence, Missouri.
Read MoreJust coming back this week after a long hiatus. Thanks to all for the messages of support and the acts of kindness to my wife's family.
Read MoreOur PICKSINSIX reviews are front and center this week with the Chicago Premiere of Shattered Globe's FIVE MILE LAKE at Theater Wit, Black Button Eyes NEVERMORE at The Edge Theater, Block St. Theatre's FLAMINGO & DECATUR at Theatre Wit and the Chicago Premiere of Rivendell Theatre Ensemble's CAL IN CAMO.
Read MoreIt's the new year and that means lots to do in and around Chicago in the weeks ahead.
Read MoreYou might think that after Linda Reiter received the Joseph Jefferson Award for Best Solo Performance as Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy in the Greenhouse Theater Center’s 2016 production of ROSE, there might not be any new ground to cover. However, considering the evolving social era in which we live, the critically-acclaimed production of the Laurence Leamer play, set to open on January 12th, seems even more relevant today than during its Chicago premiere.
One thing is for sure: 2017 was an amazing year in Chicago for live entertainment. So, with apologies, before we get to the 2017 list, there are a few points to clarify and some other highlights to tell you about.
Read MoreTo hear Bob Doepel reflect on Chicago Scenic Studios, the company he founded almost 40 years ago, you might think that it just happened to come together. In truth, Doepel has elevated the process of making things come together, often under impossible deadlines, on projects that materialize overnight, to an art form.
Read More'Tis the Season! Our conversation this week is with Deb Clapp, Executive Director of the League of Chicago Theatres, a service organization that supports, promotes and advocates for Chicago's theater industry.
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