Windy City Media Group Frontpage News

THE VOICE OF CHICAGO'S GAY, LESBIAN, BI, TRANS AND QUEER COMMUNITY SINCE 1985

home search facebook twitter join
Gay News Sponsor Windy City Times 2023-12-13
DOWNLOAD ISSUE
Donate

Sponsor
Sponsor
Sponsor

  WINDY CITY TIMES

Black Ensemble Theater's biggest hits come back for 2016 Season
From a press release
2016-01-15

This article shared 4249 times since Fri Jan 15, 2016
facebook twitter google +1 reddit email


Chicago, IL—Black Ensemble Theater's Founder and CEO Jackie Taylor announces the 40th Anniversary Season: The Season of Greatest Hits. The season opens with audience-favorites Doo Wop Shoo Bop and Those Sensational Soulful '60s, running in repertory. The 40thAnniversary Season continues with popular tributes to musical legends including Dionne Warwick, Marvin Gaye, Jackie Wilson, and Teddy Pendergrass and will close with the Black Ensemble Theater holiday classic The Other Cinderella.

"The Black Ensemble 40th Anniversary Season is something to celebrate," says Jackie Taylor. "That is why we are choosing to produce seven productions in the Season instead of our regular five." In trying to choose the most popular and biggest hits of our existence, it became clear that this year had to be the year of seven award-winning, critically-acclaimed productions. All season-long, we are bringing some of the most critically-acclaimed and popular productions which help to reflect the 40-year history of the Black Ensemble Theater. Together with the Black Ensemble musicians, performers and designers, I look forward to a season full of some of the greatest stories ever told."

The Black Ensemble Theater's 40th Anniversary Season includes:

Doo Wop Shoo Bop & Those Sensational Soulful '60s

( Running In Repertory )

February 13 — March 20, 2016

Those Sensational Soulful '60s

Written and Directed by Jackie Taylor

February 13 — March 19, 2016

Previews: February 13 at 8pm and February 20 at 8pm

Opening: Sunday, February 21, 2016 at 7pm

Schedule: Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7pm and Saturdays at 8pm

Those Sensational Soulful '60s is a highly energetic and fun remembrance of the golden era of the sixties. Black Ensemble will take audiences back in time as they bring back the hits of the great 60's groups such as The Temptations and The Four Tops, soul singers of the era including Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, Mary Wells and many other soulful surprises.

Doo Wop Shoo Bop

Written by Jackie Taylor and Jimmy Tillman

Directed by Jackie Taylor

February 14 — March 20, 2016

Previews: February 14 at 3pm, February 19 at 8pm, and February 20 at 8pm

Opening: Sunday, February 21, 2016 at 3pm

Schedule: Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 3pm, and Sundays at 3pm

This melodic look at the Doo Wop era celebrates such iconic groups as The Platters, The Drifters and the Chantels. Doo Wop Shoo Bopfirst premiered in 1995 and has had several revivals because it is, indeed, a Black Ensemble Theater treasure. Snap your fingers to the beat as we take a stroll down memory lane hearing those beautiful songs like "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes," "This Magic Moment" and "Maybe." This production explores how the successful music of today is related to the magical era of Doo Wop, bringing the '50s into the 21st Century.

Don't Make Me Over ( In Tribute to Dionne Warwick )

Written by Jackie Taylor

Directed by Rueben Echoles

April 9 — May 15, 2016

Previews: April 9, 10, 15, and 16, 2016

Opening: Sunday, April 17, 2016 at 3:00 pm

Schedule: Thursdays at 7pm, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 3pm and 8pm, and Sundays at 3pm

Don't Make Me Over ( In Tribute to Dionne Warwick ) is a historical journey that explores Ms. Warwick's accomplishments over the decades and details her musical contributions. Don't Make Me Over features 23 of Ms. Warwick's biggest hits including "Walk On By," "Message To Michael," "Alfie" and "I Say A Little Prayer," just to name a few.

The Marvin Gaye Story ( Don't Talk About My Father Because God Is My Friend )

Written by Jackie Taylor

Directed by Daryl D. Brooks

June 4 — July 10, 2016

Previews: June 4, 5, 10, and 11, 2016

Opening: Sunday, June 12, 2016 at 3pm

Schedule: Wednesdays & Thursdays at 7pm, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 3pm and 8pm, and Sundays at 3pm

Marvin Pentz Gay, Jr, otherwise known as Marvin Gaye, was known for his deeply soulful music and his phenomenal success in the music industry. The Marvin Gaye Story brings back the spirit of the "Prince of Soul" with songs like "Mercy, Mercy, Me" and "What's Goin' On." This production serves as a musical journey of the legendary man behind the music.

The Jackie Wilson Story

Written and Directed by Jackie Taylor

July 30 — September 4, 2016

Previews: July 30 & 31 and August 5 & 6, 2016

Opening: Sunday, August 7, 2016 at 3pm

Schedule: Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7pm, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 3pm and 8pm, and Sundays at 3pm

The Jackie Wilson Story returns to Chicago after an extremely successful opening in 2000 and remount in 2012, plus a national tour in 2002, which culminated at the famous Apollo Theater in New York City. This high energy, yet touching, story follows the career of one of the greatest entertainers who ever lived.

I Am Who I Am ( The Story of Teddy Pendergrass )

Written by Jackie Taylor

Directed by Daryl Brooks

September 24 — October 30, 2016

Previews: September 24, 25, 30 and October 1, 2016

Opening: Sunday, October 2, 2016 at 3pm

Schedule: Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7pm, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays at 3pm and 8pm, and Sundays at 3pm

Teddy Pendergrass was considered to be soul music's number one sex symbol in the 70's with songs like "Turn Off The Lights," "If You Don't Know Me By Now," and "Wake Up Everybody." He was on top of the world and at the height of his career in 1982 until his devastating car accident that left him a quadriplegic. There is so much to understand and admire about Teddy Pendergrass.

The Other Cinderella

Written by Jackie Taylor

Directed by Jackie Taylor and Rueben Echoles

November 26, 2016 — January 8, 2017

Previews: November 26 & 27 and December 2 &3, 2016

Opening: Sunday, December 4, 2016 at 3pm

Schedule: Thursdays at 7pm, Fridays at 8pm, Saturdays 3pm and 8pm, and Sundays at 3pm

The Other Cinderella originally premiered in 1976 and has been a staple of the theater ever since. The most popular of all the Black Ensemble Theater productions this holiday classic always features some new twist, turns, and surprises. The show joyously retells the familiar fairy tale with an Afro-centric twist. There's a "Stepmama" who works at the post office, two mean, evil but especially funny stepsisters, the brothers are from the 'hood, Cinderella was born in the projects and the "Fairy Godmama" is from Jamaica. Just as in the "traditional" Cinderella, there is a King, Queen, and a Prince, but in this kingdom, everybody has soul. The Other Cinderella is appropriate for all ages, featuring original music, exciting dances and a heartwarming story that reminds audiences of the greatness of the human spirit.

In addition to Black Ensemble Theater's regular season, a number of special events will be presented during the year:

BPI Black Playwrights Festival

April 24 — 26, 2016 at 7pm

The 11th Annual Black Playwrights Festival brings a weekend of new scripts to the BE stage, as part of the company's Black Playwright's Initiative ( BPI ). Written by BPI members and developed through the BPI process, all featured scripts will receive engaging and innovative readings.

Sex In The Summer Series

August 23 — 24, 2016

Black Ensemble presents its 8th Annual Sex in the Summer Series, featuring new works by members of the Black Playwright's Initiative ( BPI ) focused on the subject of sex.

Black Ensemble Theater Gala

October 14, 2016

The Annual Black Ensemble New Year's Eve Show

December 31, 2016

Like all Black Ensemble events, the New Year's Eve celebration will be an occasion filled with joy and excitement. Guests at the celebration will enjoy a performance by the stars of Black Ensemble Theater, along with great entertainment, fabulous food, dancing with the stars and champagne flowing all night long!

Tickets

Tickets are available at www.blackensemble.org, ( 773 ) 769-4451 or at the Black Ensemble Theater Box Office, 4450 N. Clark Street in Chicago. Single tickets for regular season performances are priced at $55 on Wednesday, Thursdays, and Saturday matinees; and $65 on Fridays, Saturday evenings, and Sunday matinees. A 10% discount is available for students, seniors, and groups.

The Black Ensemble Theater will sell the 40th Anniversary Gold Card which allows the holder to see all 7 plays for a discounted price of $385.00. The 40th Anniversary Gold Card is good for 1 ticket per production. For more details or to purchase a 40th Anniversary Gold Card contact the box office at 773-769-4451.

The Black Ensemble Theater

Founded in 1976, by the phenomenal producer, playwright and actress Jackie Taylor, Black Ensemble Theater is the only African American theater located in the culturally, racially and ethnically diverse north side Uptown community. Through its Five Play Season of Excellence, The Black Ensemble Theater dazzles audiences locally, nationally and internationally with outstanding original musicals that are entertaining, educational and uplifting. The Black Ensemble Theater has produced more than 100 productions and employed over 5,000 artists.

On November 18, 2011, The Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center opened and is able to accommodate larger-scale productions, bigger audiences and a wider range of educational programming. The new facility includes amenities such as a 299-seat main stage theater ( double the capacity of the original venue ); 14 offices, classroom space, rehearsal hall, dance studio, scene shop, costume shop, and wardrobe rooms; seven dressing rooms; rehearsal room for musicians; front lobby space with concession areas; and an indoor parking garage. The completion of a 150-seat theater, which will serve as an experimental stage for the work of the Black Playwright Initiative ( BPI ), with construction by General Contractor Norcon Inc., is expected in 2016/17.

The mission of the Black Ensemble Theater Company is to eradicate racism and its devastating effects upon society through the theater arts. For more information on the Black Ensemble Theater Company, please visit www.BlackEnsembleTheater.org or call 773-769-4451 .


This article shared 4249 times since Fri Jan 15, 2016
facebook twitter google +1 reddit email

Out and Aging
Presented By

  ARTICLES YOU MIGHT LIKE

Gay News

SHOWBIZ Dionne Warwick, OUTshine, Ariana DeBose, 'Showgirls,' 'Harlem' 2024-03-29
Video below - Iconic singer Dionne Warwick was honored for her decades-long advocacy work for people living with HIV/AIDS at a star-studded amfAR fundraising gala in Palm Beach, per the Palm Beach Daily News. Warwick received the "Award of ...


Gay News

WORLD Israel court, conversion therapy, death sentences, Georgia bill, fashion items 2024-03-29
- Israel's Supreme Court unanimously ruled that the Population Authority must register female couples as mothers on the birth certificates of their children they have together, The Washington Blade reported. The decision was made following a petition ...


Gay News

City Lit Executive Artistic Director Brian Pastor talks theater, comics, queerness 2024-03-26
- City Lit Theater has announced its programming for the 2024-25 season—which will be the company's 44th. It will also be the first season to be programmed under the leadership of Brian Pastor (they/them), who will assume ...


Gay News

The Jeff Awards announces the 50th anniversary awards for non-equity theater 2024-03-26
--From a press release - A complete list of recipients can also be found online in the Non-Equity and News and Events sections at www.jeffawards.org. (March 25, 2024 - Chicago) — Celebrating its 50th anniversary awarding recognition for Non-Equity theater, the ...


Gay News

SHOWBIZ Queer musicians, Marvel situation, Elliot Page, Nicole Kidman 2024-03-21
- Queer musician Joy Oladokun released the single "I Wished on the Moon," from Jack Antonoff's official soundtrack for the new Apple TV+ series The New Look, per a press release. The soundtrack, ...


Gay News

THEATER Chicago's City Lit has anxiety on tap with 'Two Hours in a Bar' 2024-03-21
- Two Hours in a Bar Waiting for Tina Meyer by Kristine Thatcher with material by Larry Shue Text Me by Kingsley Day (Book, Music and Lyrics). At: City Lit Theater, 1020 W. Bryn Mawr Ave.. Tickets: ...


Gay News

Jamie Barton brings nuances of identity to her Lyric Opera 'Aida' performance 2024-03-18
- Chicago's Lyric Opera is currently featuring a production of Giuseppe Verdi's Aida starring Michelle Bradley as Aida, Jamie Barton as Amneris and Russell Thomas as Radamès. The opera runs through April 7, 2024, with Francesca Zambello ...


Gay News

Queer Eye's Jai Rodriguez is set to slay at The Big Gay Cabaret 2024-03-05
- Out and proud performer Jai Rodriguez is set to play at The Big Gay Cabaret this March for three days. Presented by RuPaul Drag Racer Ginger Minj, this monthly series highlights the wide world of cabaret ...


Gay News

THEATER 'R & J' puts a female, queer spin on Shakespeare 2024-03-05
- Romeo and Juliet is the theatrical gift that keeps on giving. It's been reworked for the masses numerous times, whether in direct adaptations or musicals such as West Side Story. Shakespeare's plotline points have even inspired ...


Gay News

Center on Halsted hosts 6th Annual Intergenerational Talent Show 2024-03-03
- On the evening of Feb. 29, Center on Halsted held its 6th Annual Intergenerational Talent Show in front of a packed audience at the Hoover-Leppen Theater. The event brought together participants of the Center's youth and senior ...


Gay News

THEATER When growth is paramount: Jim Corti helps fuel Aurora theater expansion 2024-03-01
- Out actor/director/choreographer Jim Corti made his Broadway debut in 1974, in the ensemble of Leonard Bernstein's musical Candide. Director Harold Prince's acclaimed Tony Award-winning revival is often cited as a ...


Gay News

Theater Review: Billy Elliot, The Musical 2024-02-19
- Book and Lyrics: Lee Hall; Music: Elton John. At: Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora Tickets: 630-896-6666 or Paramountaurora.com; $28-$79. Runs through March 24 Billy Elliot: The Musical may nearly be two decades old, but ...


Gay News

'West Side Story' gets a sex-positive spin with new burlesque show 2024-02-19
- In partial observance of National Condom Day, which was Feb. 14, Los Angeles-based AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) presented A West Side Story Burlesque at the Harris Theater for two hour-long performances on Feb. 17. The show, ...


Gay News

Second Glance Productions hosts LGBTQupid Soiree 2024-02-16
- In celebration of Valentine's Day, Chicago based film and media production company Second Glance hosted The LBGTQupid Soiree. The event, which was focused on spinning attitudes on this particular day, was presented at The iO ...


Gay News

Carisa Hendrix mesmerizes as Lucy Darling in Teatro ZinZanni 2024-02-12
- Since 2019, Teatro ZinZanni has gathered together amazing performers from all over the world to create an experience in Chicago under the Spiegeltent in the Cambria Hotel building, 32 W. Randolph St. Over the years, ticket ...


 


Copyright © 2024 Windy City Media Group. All rights reserved.
Reprint by permission only. PDFs for back issues are downloadable from
our online archives.

Return postage must accompany all manuscripts, drawings, and
photographs submitted if they are to be returned, and no
responsibility may be assumed for unsolicited materials.

All rights to letters, art and photos sent to Nightspots
(Chicago GLBT Nightlife News) and Windy City Times (a Chicago
Gay and Lesbian News and Feature Publication) will be treated
as unconditionally assigned for publication purposes and as such,
subject to editing and comment. The opinions expressed by the
columnists, cartoonists, letter writers, and commentators are
their own and do not necessarily reflect the position of Nightspots
(Chicago GLBT Nightlife News) and Windy City Times (a Chicago Gay,
Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender News and Feature Publication).

The appearance of a name, image or photo of a person or group in
Nightspots (Chicago GLBT Nightlife News) and Windy City Times
(a Chicago Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender News and Feature
Publication) does not indicate the sexual orientation of such
individuals or groups. While we encourage readers to support the
advertisers who make this newspaper possible, Nightspots (Chicago
GLBT Nightlife News) and Windy City Times (a Chicago Gay, Lesbian
News and Feature Publication) cannot accept responsibility for
any advertising claims or promotions.

 
 

TRENDINGBREAKINGPHOTOS







Sponsor


 



Donate


About WCMG      Contact Us      Online Front  Page      Windy City  Times      Nightspots
Identity      BLACKlines      En La Vida      Archives      Advanced Search     
Windy City Queercast      Queercast Archives     
Press  Releases      Join WCMG  Email List      Email Blast      Blogs     
Upcoming Events      Todays Events      Ongoing Events      Bar Guide      Community Groups      In Memoriam     
Privacy Policy     

Windy City Media Group publishes Windy City Times,
The Bi-Weekly Voice of the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Trans Community.
5315 N. Clark St. #192, Chicago, IL 60640-2113 • PH (773) 871-7610 • FAX (773) 871-7609.