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Archive for July, 2010
Macy Gray to Perform at Macy’s Glamorama
Posted on July 31st, 2010 by Adam Marks
Those who have familiarized themselves with Macy’s as only a shopping destination get a real treat this time of the year. It’s time for Macy’s annual Glamorama spectacular! The four-city tour hits Chicago at the Chicago Theatre on Friday, August 13 at 8PM, and is highlighted with performances by Grammy award-winning singer Macy Gray (as seen in the photo courtesy of Giuliano Bekor) and newcomer Eric Hutchinson.
Unlike New York Fashion Week, all the clothes shown in the elaborate fashion show aren’t out of reach. In fact, there as close as a trip to Macy’s. This year, designer Chris March— known by millions as a finalist on Season 4 of Bravo’s “Project Runway”—is using his talents to create a fantasy-like setting. “The show will be a magical experience of high fashion set against a multidimensional theatrical production with surprises at every turn, introducing 3-D holographic effects, elements of flight, visual vistas and a sampling of controller-free entertainment by Kinect™ for Xbox 360®, all set against a larger than life LED video wall,” says Mike Gansmoe, Macy’s VP of Special Productions. For the first time in the event’s history, the runway show will integrate a dynamic dance segment choreographed by Brian Friedman, famed dance choreographer to the stars and choreographer/judge on “So You Think You Can Dance?”
And speaking of dancing, you’ll have plenty of time to show off your own skills on the dance floor at the post-party taking place on the 7th floor of Macy’s on State Street. After you’ve worked up an appetite—and thirst—make your way around the 25 bars and food stations stocked with a bevy of choices—though we’re secretly going to start with a stroll through the candy garden.
Proceeds from Glamorama benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased through RMHC®-CNI by calling 630-623-2309 or by visiting RonaldHouseChicago.org. Tickets can also be purchased through Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000, ticketmaster.com or through The Chicago Theatre box office. Tickets range in price from $50 to $1,000.
Tags: Chicago Fashion Events, Eric Hutchinson, Fashion Show, Glamorama, Macy Gray, Macy's, Macy's on State Street, Ronald McDonald Charities
The Party Before Lollapalooza
Posted on July 31st, 2010 by Adam Marks
I’m not going to pretend that I’m a Lollapalooza expert—we have plenty of knowledgeable and talented CP music writers who can take care of that—but when it comes to a fun gala or bash, that’s a completely different story. So as far as Lollapalooza goes, let’s just say I’m more tuned into what happens before the festival than the actual event itself.
GALApalooza is the official preview party for the concert event of the year. Before you start griping about another ticket cost, keep in mind that proceeds from your purchase enable Parkways Foundation to invest in Chicago’s parks and neighborhoods. In fact, the same applies to Lollapalooza tickets, which have generated over $5 million since 2005.
GALApalooza takes place on Thursday, August 5 at 6PM at the Petrillo Band Shell in Grant Park. Enjoy bountiful buffets and open bar while mingling in a fun atmospheric party-like setting. And since this is the launch of a music event, enjoy a private performance by Grammy-nominated electropop band Hot Chip. While there are some scattered tables and seating available (hopefully near the fun photo booth like last year), we suggest you round up a group and buy in to a GALA Lounge for the ultimate in concert comfort and premium food and beverage service—rock star style.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit parkways.org
Tags: Charity Event, Chicago Events, Galapalooza, Grant Park, Hot Chip, Lollapalooza, Lollapalooza 2010
Lakeview Bar Hosts Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon After-Party
Posted on July 30th, 2010 by
Starting at 3:00 p.m. this Sunday, August 1st, head over to Uncle Fatty’s Rum Resort to celebrate the runners in the Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicago Half Marathon and Give Your Sole. Kick back with friends and a cocktail an
d support a good cause: Give Your Sole is an organization that collects moderately-worn athletic shoes following races nationwide to donate to less fortunate men, women, and children. You can also enter for your chance to win a pair of celebrity basketball shoes autographed by Chicago Bulls star forward Luol Deng. A $5 cover charge gets you one raffle ticket and a wristband for $2 Miller Lites. Or upgrade to a $30 cover charge and receive six raffle tickets and unlimited premium cocktails from 3 p.m -6 p.m. Receive one additional raffle ticket for every pair of shoes you donate to Give Your Sole. Raffle winners will be announced at 5:00 p.m.
Uncle Fatty’s is located in the heart of the Lakeview neighborhood at 2833 N. Sheffield Ave. This tropical-themed bar is 7,000 square-foot playground that serves up an extensive menu of frozen drinks, tropical cocktails and beachy brews amid full-service tiki bars and cabana-style seating. For more information, call 773-477-3661.
Tags: Chicago Marathon, give your sole, marathon after party
Walk Through Time with the Chicago Architecture Foundation
Posted on July 30th, 2010 by
Already offering a plethora of boat, bus, and walking tours, the Chicago Architecture Foundation has added a new tour to its list that’s perfect for a summer in the city. Called the “Skyscraper Walk Through Time,” this one-hour walking tour takes sightseers through the Loop and shows how Chicago architecture has changed over time. The city of Chicago is known for being home to some of the world’s first skyscrapers, but how have these buildings and designs changed since their initial construction? The tour will show classic skyscrapers from each major era from the earliest masonry buildings to modern high-rise skyscrapers. See how architects adapted their designs and building styles to fit with the times and how they used the technology available to them to build bigger and taller than before. Upcoming tour dates are August 4th and 6th at 10:30 a.m. and August 7th at 3:30 p.m. Tickets are only $10 for adults and $5 for kids. Visit the CAF website for more information, or call 312-922-3432 to book your reservation today.
Tags: Chicago Architecture Foundation, Chicago Skyscrapers, skyscraper tours, walking tours
Cravings Menu Rocks at Zed451′s Rooftop
Posted on July 30th, 2010 by
With little fanfare, Zed 451, 739 N. Clark, (312) 266-6691, introduced a simple yet delightful Cravings Menu. Available on the rooftop, the menu ranges from Zed Bites, including beer battered pearl onions and fire roasted Kalamata & Manzanilla olives, to a half-dozen varieties of Sliders. Move over ground beef; these sliders are packed with crispy lumb crab meat or maple cured “BLT”. The Sun-Times raves : “Scenesters flock to the happening rooftop lounge. Good luck finding a better setting to sample sliders….as well as poblano-flecked deviled eggs.”
ZED451 is an American churrasco located in the heart of River North in Chicago. The full dining experience at ZED451 is globally inspired, fresh, seasonal. The center of the dining room features an assortment of seasonal gourmet salads, artesian cheeses, charcuterie, cold pastas, and house-made soups. For entree’s served at your table, place a river stone at the edge and our chefs will approach your table with prime meats, wild game, poultry and fresh fish they have personally prepared for dinner.
Each and every chefs has the freedom to create new offerings with seasonal meats and produce for ZED451’s constantly changing seaasonal menu. Save room for the butterscotch bread pudding topped off with a homemade vanilla marshmallow.
Tags: Chicago Al Fresco dining, Rooftop Patio Chicago, Zed451 Chicago
Who’s the Pharez of them all?
Posted on July 29th, 2010 by
“Pharez Whitted” sounds like a name from Sun Ra’s band of interplanetary jazzmen, but there’s nothing alien about his music. Guided by the example of galvanizing hard-bop trumpeter Freddie Hubbard, Whitted burns and slashes his way through a program of original compositions on the recent album Transient Journey, leading a no-miss sextet that includes guitarist Bobby Broom and pianist Ron Perrillo, two Chicagoans with lots of national cred. They’re all together again for the CD-release party this weekend at the Jazz Showcase, 806 S. Plymouth.
Whitted comes by his love of Freddie Hubbard quite naturally. Both grew up in Indianapolis, and Whitted’s dad played drums with Hubbard in the 1950s, as the trumpet ace was making his mark in town and just before he moved to New York to launch his meteoric career. In addition, Whitted has plenty of music in his genome: in addition to his dad, his mother was a bassist, and his uncle is Slide Hampton, the famed trombonist and arranger.
Whitted doesn’t imitate Hubbard, and he doesn’t parody him either. But Hubbard’s influence hovers over his own playing and has helped make Whitted a formidable presence in Chicago, where he moved in 2001. The city doesn’t lack for excellent trumpet players, but Whitted stands out even among daunting competition, with solidly constructed solos beneath his fiery swagger. His weekend sets at the Jazz Showcase – 8 and 10 PM through Sunday (August 1), with a Sunday matinee at 4 PM – feature all the musicians heard on the excellent Transient Journey, including Chicago bassist Dennis Carroll, Ohio saxist Eddie Bayard and Indianapolis drummer Greg Artry. Should be a blast.
Tags: Chicago Nightlife, live music
Chicago Live Music Directory
Posted on July 29th, 2010 by
Chicago loves its music, but more importantly, nothing compares to experiencing it live. Check out these places to see live music in Chicago.
Close Up 2
Close Up 2′s “Smooth/Contemporary Jazz” nightclub has the best local and national smooth jazz bands performing weekly. Modern decor with imported french lights and custom chairs.
416 S. Clark St. Chicago IL | 312-385-1111
The Cubby Bear
Chicago’s premier live music venue directly across the street from Wrigley Field. Live music seven nights a week with tons of variety. Don’t miss Salsa Sundays with free lessons!
1059 W. Addison St. Chicago IL | 773-327-1662
Howl at the Moon
Howl is a high-energy, all-request driven dueling piano bar! From Lady Gaga to Billy Joel: you say it, we play it. Come party with us seven nights a week!
26 W. Hubbard St. Chicago IL | 312-863-7427
Katerina’s
An intimate live music venue that serves great good and cocktails during all shows. Serving dinner until 1 a.m. for all late shows. Showcasing the hippest jazz, funk, Latin, blues and international music.
1920 W. Irving Park Rd. Chicago IL | 773-348-7592
The Redhead Piano Bar
The Redhead is Chicago’s premier piano bar. Located on bustling Ontario Street, it is the perfect nightspot for fantastic music, lively conversation and meeting people. No cover, proper attire required.
16 W. Ontario St. Chicago IL | 312-640-1000
Tags: Chicago Jazz Concerts, Chicago Live Music Directory, Chicago Music Venues, Chicago Rock Concerts
Chicago Outdoor Dining Guide
Posted on July 29th, 2010 by
What could be better than enjoying the beautiful Chicago summer while eating a delicious meal outside? Check out the Chicago Outdoor Dining Guide for all your Chicago outdoor dining needs! Whether it’s on a patio, rooftop or sidewalk, these are a few of our favorites.
Rockit Bar & Grill Wrigleyville
Rockit Bar & Grill Wrigleyville is the ultimate in alfresco dining. Located directly across the way from Wrigley Field, guests that dine on the sprawling patio experience award-winning food with historic Wrigley Field as a backdrop.
3700 N. Clark St., Chicago | 773-645-4400
The Plaza at Park Grill
The city’s largest alfresco dining venue, The Plaza at Park Grill is nestled in the heart of Millennium Park and within steps of famous Michigan Avenue. Offering the perfect summer fare with daily drink specials and live entertainment, The Plaza is an experience unlike any other in Chicago.
11 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago IL | 312-521-PARK
Tavern at the Park
NEW 32-seat patio along Randolph Street offers beautiful views of Millennium Park within walking distance of the Chicago Theatre District. Ask your concierge to make a reservation today!
130 E. Randolph St. Chicago IL | 312-522-0070
Sports Corner
The newly remodeled Sports Corner, re-opened in April and features a rooftop patio and second floor alfresco dining space with plenty of TVs to catch the big game!
952 W. Addison St. Chicago IL | 773-929-1441
Vines on Clark
Vines on Clark is an upscale wine and sports bar located right across the street from Wrigley Field and features Wrigleyville’s largest outdoor patio!
3554 N. Clark St. Chicago IL | 773-327-8572
Dick’s Last Resort
Dick’s Last Resort is perched on the Chicago River with an endless view of the city. Guests enjoy cold beer and frozen drinks with generous portions of American food.
315 N. Dearborn St. Chicago IL | 312-836-7870
One is NOT the loneliest number
Posted on July 29th, 2010 by Annie Kelly
The symphony, opera, and ballet are fine when fall rolls around, but in the summer, your want your entertainment as light and lively as volleyball on the beach or a crisp rose as the sun sets. So what are you waiting for? Starting tonight, the less-than-reverent Lifeline Theater and Live Bait Theater present the annual “Fillet of Solo Festival.” Running through August 21, this seasonal delight showcases must-see, one-person performances by an array of Chicago’s far-from-mainstream artists, including David Kodeski, Stephanie Shaw, Susan Karp, and Edward Thomas-Herrera – not to mention emerging talents, including police officers involved in Live Bait’s Police-Teen Link program. This week’s line-up – on stage at Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Avenue — features Kim Morris, Doug Whippo and John Wilson, members of 2nd Story, the popular, Chicago-based storytelling troupe that performs regularly at Webster’s Wine Bar in Lincoln Park and the Morseland in Rogers Park. Tickets: $10! To order, call 773.761.4477.
Dining in the Park
Posted on July 27th, 2010 by
The Park Grill is one of the easiest restaurants to find in this town. Head towards the bean, and you’re basically there!
But beyond having an excellent location nestled in Millennium Park, Park Grill delivers on great food and drinks with a few special options for the summer.
One of the best ways to experience the park is with a picnic, and Park Grill is here to help. You can call ahead (312-521-7276 x200) to order prepacked bags or baskets filled with goodies. They have great options for kids, too. Check out the whole menu here.
The Park Cafe is also a great option for lunch or dinner. They have a wide option of salads and sandwiches for a nice casual meal.
For a dressed-up meal, walk inside to the Grill for a great, varied menu. Try their award winning peppercorn Kobe burger or a delicious smoked salmon club. It’s important to note that the indoor restaurant is perfectly air-conditioned, a comfort which simply cannot be overestimated at this time of year.
No matter what kind of day you are having in or around Millennium Park, the Park Grill has a way to help make it better. Go in for a meal, or grab a bag on the go!
Tags: Chicago Entertainment & Attractions, Chicago Restaurants, Downtown Chicago, Millennium Park
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