MY FAIR LADY, A CHORUS LINE Set For Paramount Season
By: Gabrielle Sierra May. 25, 2011
Nationally recognized comedy stars, A-list music legends, incredible tribute bands, and spectacular family entertainment will join four amazing Broadway musicals next season at Aurora's historic Paramount Theatre, which announced today its full 2011-12, 80th anniversary line-up.
Now, the Paramount is sure to stir up even more excitement by packing even more top drawer entertainment into the theater's 80th anniversary season schedule, including The Bacon Brothers (yes, that Kevin Bacon!), the percussive explosion Blast!, the ballroom dance extravaganza Burn the Floor, the fiery magic of Celtic Fire, comedians Frank Caliendo, Bill Engvall, country legend Josh Turner, renowned songstress Mary Chapin Carpenter, Judy Garland's daughter Lorna Luft, rock and roll legends Huey Lewis and the News, Los Lobos, Cyndi Lauper with Dr. John, the popular Chicago band Poi Dog Pondering, amazing rock tribute concerts the Happy Together Tour, The Pink Floyd Experience and Almost Elton John and The Rocket Band, new "popera" phenoms Il Voce, family-friendly shows like illusionist Mike Super, The Flying Karamazov Brothers, The Von Trapp Children, The Peking Acrobats and Frank Ferante in An Evening with Groucho, the holiday classic A Christmas Carol, two New Year's Eve performances of Sandy Hackett's Rat Pack Show, Aurora's own Ballet Folklorico Quetzalcoatl, the side-splitting comedy Southern Fried Chicks, the nostalgic musical Route 66, and the return of Classic Movie Mondays.
Recapping: Paramount's new Broadway musical series to anchor 2011-2012 season
Starting next fall, the Paramount will mark a radical shift in programming by joining the ranks of Chicago's top Equity houses to self-produce and present its own spectacular, four-show Broadway musical subscription series, overseen by Jim Corti, the celebrated Chicago director, choreographer and Broadway actor and the Paramount's first-ever Artistic Director in its 80-year history. Each production promises sumptuous costuming, extravagant sets and elegant choreography, will showcase the talents of top professional actors and designers from Chicago and around the U.S., and boast full orchestration with live musicians thanks to the debut of the new Paramount Theatre Orchestra. With Broadway at the Paramount Buy Two Shows, Get Two Shows Fee introductory packages starting as low as $70, musical theater fans can enjoy four incredible musicals for the price of just one show downtown. Following is recap of the first-ever Broadway at the Paramount subscription series:MY FAIR LADYDirected by Jim Corti
September 14- October 2, 2011
New Paramount Theatre Artistic Director Jim Corti will launch the inaugural Broadway at the Paramount series with My Fair Lady, one of the greatest American musicals ever written. This sweeping tale of a common flower girl and the distinguished professor who bets he can make her a refined lady is the glorious musical adaptation of George Bernard Shaw's 1912 classic masterpiece, Pygmalion. Featuring richly textured melodies, lavish sets and gorgeous period fashions, My Fair Lady brings you the songs you've long loved such as Wouldn't It Be Loverly?, The Rain in Spain, I Could Have Danced All Night and I've Grown Accustomed to Her Face. Funny, sweet and delightful in every way, find out why some say this musical is the standard by which all others are written.
JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOATDirected by Stacey Flaster
November 2 - November 20, 2011
TRIUMPHANT. Fast-PACED. Musical theater on a magnanimous scale. Nominated for eight Tony Awards, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat paints a stirring portrait of Joseph, the favorite son. His brothers? Jealous to the core. The narrator guides the story and colorful cast through Andrew Lloyd Webber's family-friendly and eclectic score of pop music genres: from country western and disco to reggae and rock and roll. The artistic team's vision for staging is glorious - almost cinematic in qualitY. Joseph, the role made famous by Donny Osmond, along with a mesmerizing cast, transforms big numbers, light-hearted humor and dance into a memorable show sure to touch the hearts of the very young on up.
Stacey Flaster has directed and choreographed for Marriott Theatre, Drury Lane Oakbrook, Theatre at the Center, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Light Opera Works and Noble Fool Theatricals, among others. She has been nominated for two Jeff Awards for her choreography. A CHORUS LINEDirected by Mitzi Hamilton
January 18-February 5, 2012
EXHILARATING! No other word aptly describes A Chorus Line, where 17 dancers yearn for a coveted spot on the line. Celebrate their individual stories of hope, sacrifice, soul-searching and dreams as their tales unfold on stage during a single New York audition. This smash hit features music written by famed composer Marvin Hamlisch and offers up big dance numbers, emotionally-charged vocals, laughter and pathos. No wonder A Chorus Line is the longest running American musical ever produced, boasting nine Tony Awards and a Pulitzer Prize for Drama. What I Did For Love and the blockbuster Broadway finale One are here! Never look at the stage the same way again. A Chorus Line promises to be one singular sensation, particularly with Broadway star Mitzi Hamilton directing. Hamilton provided the inspiration for the character of Val in the original Michael Bennett production of A Chorus Line, and later performed the role in the original London company and on Broadway.
HAIRDirected by Rachel Rockwell
March 14-April 1, 2012PEACE, NOW. FREEDOM, NOW. Yes, the dawning of Aquarius has arrived at the Paramount! Reunite with the ecstasy and radicalism of the sixties in this Tony Award winning, full-tilt production of Hair. A modern musical evangelist that clearly favors the anti-establishment, Hair highlights many of the same issues our youth wrestle with today. As its electrifying music collides with themes of love and war, drugs, environmentalism, racism and sex, Hair is the antithesis of almost all other Broadway musicals. Some of the most memorable songs ever written for stage are here, including Aquarius, Easy to be Hard, Good Morning Starshine and the unmistakable title song, Hair. Note: parental discretion is advised. There is a dimly lit 20-second scene with nudity that is non-sexual in nature.Director Rachel Rockwell, named "Chicago's Best Director" of 2010 by Chicago Magazine, has staged award-winning plays and musicals for Drury Lane Oakbrook, Marriott Theatre, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, Drury Lane Water Tower Place and Noble Fool. Following is the balance of the Paramount's 2011-2012 season, announced today, in chronological order:2011-2012 SEASON KICK OFF PARTY
Friday, August 26, 5pm $10
Join fellow Paramount fans in the Grand Gallery for the hottest Kick-off Party ever! Visit food stations and sample amazing treats and appetizers prepared by area restaurants and dining partners while sipping on a cool beverage (cash bar). Try your luck for a chance to win amazing prizes. Don't miss the Happy Together concert right after.
HAPPY TOGETHER TOUR
Friday, August 26, 8pm $49.50-$59.50
Come on all you baby boomers - get ready to groove to the greatest Pop Rock of the 60's ever assembled on one stage! See The Turtles featuring Flo & Eddie, The Association, The Grass Roots, Mark Lindsay (former lead singer of Paul Revere and the Raiders) and The Buckinghams. Don't miss out - that would be "Kind of a Drag."
THE BACON BROTHERS
Tuesday, August 30, 8pm, $35-$55
Female fans will be wild to see their favorite "Footloose" actor with his megawatt, silver screen smile, but the celebrated siblings and their band are here to rock! Kevin and Michael Bacon are terrific singers, masters of multiple instruments and pensive, polished songwriters. Along with their stellar band mates, Ira Siegel on various guitars, Paul Guzzone on bass and Frank Vilardi on drums, The Bacon Brothers create a magical explosion onstage, slipping between genres, making their music hard to describe but easy to embrace. They call it "forosoco"- a blend of folk, rock, soul and country. Some just call it cool. The Bacon Brothers could be major rock stars, but they're having more fun being one of the best-kept secrets in the industry.
Friday, September 9, 8pm $47.50-$65.50
Whether it's his deep soulful voice or his South Carolina accent, multi-platinum singer-songwriter Josh Turner is guaranteed to make the ladies swoon. Best known for his rich baritone voice, Josh knows exactly how to sing a love song. This country singer oozes masculinity, sensuality, playfulness and humor. Get set for a night of country hits you won't soon forget.
FRANK CALIENDO
Friday, October 7, 8pm $55-$65
One of the funniest comedians around and perhaps the world's greatest impersonator, Frank Caliendo, fresh from Vegas, is known for his live stand-up comedy act and countless uncanny voice and physical impersonations. Fully caffeinated Caliendo's dynamic mix of high-energy comedy and fast-paced impressions make this arguably the best comedy show around. Watch in amazement as he flawlessly and effortlessly channels Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, John Madden, Robin Williams, Dr. Phil, former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, and other famous personalities. Your cheeks will hurt from laughing, guaranteed!
MIKE SUPER
Sunday, October 9, 3pm $10 (child); $30 (adult)
Voted America's favorite Mystifier on NBC's hit TV show "Phenomenon," Mike Super has also been named the 2011 Entertainer of the Year by the International Magician's Society. You'll see why he won "Phenomenon" when you experience his magical powers. His appeal to both young and old has made him one of the most sought after mystifiers in the world! Get tickets early before they disappear!
MARY CHAPIN CARPENTER
Friday, October 14, 8pm $35-$50
There is a feeling that begins to take hold when listening to the inspirational songs of Mary Chapin Carpenter. The words seem to capture perfectly something you have always tried to say. Combining folk, country, acoustic, rock and blues, Grammy award winner, Mary Chapin Carpenter's latest release "Age of Miracles" is a collection of songs that blends personal tales of discovery and experience with distant and imagined stories. Join the Paramount for an unforgettable evening with this masterful songstress.
BLAST!
Saturday, October 15, 4pm and 8pm $38-$48
Throw away the traditional brass band stereotypes. Get rid of the music stands and chairs! Blast! is a celebration of instrumental music and outdoor pageantry, put in a theatrical setting. For years musicians have been trapped in the pit. Now they're front and center on stage - acting, leaping, and lunging while creating a new musical and theatrical experience. With its wide variety of musical styles, there's something in this show for everyone. Audiences will be blown away by the power and presence of brass, percussion, and visual effects.
BILL ENGVALL
Saturday, October 22, 5pm and 9pm $59.50-$69.50
The thing that makes any entertainer successful is the ability to connect with an audience. It's this quality of sharing the humor in everyday situations that has made Bill Engvall one of the top comedians today. His side-splitting stories about marriage, vacations, growing older and general observations about life are sure to be a hit with all audiences. You'll be laughing so hard your face will hurt. It's good clean comedy at its best with no unnecessary "language" thrown in.
Huey Lewis AND THE NEWS
Friday October 21, 8pm $50-$75
It's still "Hip to be Square." Selling over 20 million albums and earning Grammy Awards along the way, Huey Lewis and The News play a brand of straight-ahead rock and roll that has outlasted countless trends and is still going strong. With its roots in soul and rhythm and blues, Lewis' show combines old and new, featuring many familiar tunes from the 80's, as well as covers of classic soul songs from their recently released "Soulsville," the group's first studio album in nine years.
Cyndi Lauper & Dr. John - FROM MEMPHIS TO MARDI GRAS
Friday, October 28, 8pm $59-$69
Cyndi Lauper burst onto the world stage as the quintessential girl who wants to have fun. With her latest studio album "Memphis Blues," a gritty collection of blues cover songs, she has reinvented herself and put a unique twist on one of music's most beloved genres. She has recently partnered with Grammy Award winning musician and 2011 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Dr. John for a special once-in-a-lifetime, three-week national tour, and Paramount snagged them for their only Chicagoland appearance! This unique pairing combines the flavor of New Orleans, a rich blend of Blues, Jazz and Funk with a pinch of voodoo. Make sure you are "in the right place," there is no "wrong time" to see this show!
MATHEMAGIC!
Tuesday, November 8 9:30am and Noon, $8
Discover the magic of math! Internationally acclaimed magician and educator Bradley Fields captivates students with his famous MatheMagic illusions and turns the audience on to the history, the power and the beauty of the language of math! Kids will be spellbound by this magical never-to-be-forgotten live stage experience for school audiences K-8.
Saturday, November 26, 4pm and 8pm $28.50-$38.50
They're not Russian, they don't fly, and they aren't brothers! What they are is amazing! For over 35 years, The Flying Karamazov Brothers have brought their signature brand of physical humor and entertainment to theaters around the globe. Direct from Broadway, their latest show 4-Play is 100 minutes of cleverness and comedy with endless juggling (including items from the audience), a zany ballet, and banter that's part Marx Brothers, part Monty Python - 100% pure glee!
THE VON TRAPP CHILDREN
Sunday, December 4, 3pm $32.50-$38.50
The Sound of Music captured the hearts of millions when the film debuted in 1965. Now, 40 years later, the von Trapp's family legacy is born anew. Meet Sofia, Melanie, Amanda and Justin von Trapp - the great-grandchildren of Captain von Trapp, father of the famous singing family whose story captivated the world. The siblings have continued the tradition of the family's exceptional musical gift and love of singing, sharing songs and heart-warming family stories of life before and after coming to America.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL
Thursday, December 8, 10am
Friday, December 9, 10am and 7pm Day $14 (child) - $20 (adult); Evening: $26 (child) - $37 (adult)
Join Ebenezer Scrooge as he is transported through past, present and future in a quest for the true meaning of Christmas. This lavish musical production is bursting with pageantry, laughter and gorgeous costumes. Never has a theatrical performance embodied the warmth and joy of the season more brilliantly than this spellbinding fable of a man who is given the rarest of gifts - the chance to change his life and to find his heart.
BALLET FOLKLORICO QUETZALCOATL
Saturday, December 17, 7pm $18 (child) - $25 (adult)
This nationally recognized dance troupe from Aurora brings amazing choreography and showmanship to the stage. Authentic wardrobes, made in Mexico, make this ballet one of the best examples of Mexican tradition and art in the U.S. Ballet Folklorico Quetzalcoatl features over 50 dancers, ages 8-40, in this entertaining dance spectacle that appeals to all age groups and crosses cultural barriers.
SANDY HACKETT'S RAT PACK SHOW
Saturday, December 31, 6pm and 10pm $45
Celebrate New Year's Eve and the golden era of Las Vegas with Sandy Hackett's Rat Pack Show! Take a journey back to the days of highballs, hi-jinks and happy hour with Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis, Jr., Joey Bishop and Dean Martin. They were style, substance, swing, swagger and a non-stop party that everyone wanted to be a part of. Join the guys for an evening of classic songs and lounge banter. Champagne toast and party favors included.
POI DOG PONDERING
Saturday, January 14, 8pm $35-$45
Known as "the little big band with the strong back and supple/stubborn heart," Poi Dog Pondering has been following its intuition for 25 years now, ripening into staunchly independent musical voyagers. This wildly popular Chicago band has let every sound that excited them flow through their music and flood it with ever changing colors; rock and soul. Orchestral, acoustic and electronic textures...Americana, rock band disco and international music...all threaded along the way with lyrics that embrace the beauty and pain that life can bring.
RAMONA QUIMBY
Monday, February 6, 9am and Noon $8
Ramona's life is a mess! Her older sister Beezus is a pain, her Aunt Bea may marry a dork, and her Dad just lost his job. She even thinks that her teacher hates her. Life is no picnic, and growing up isn't easy. But with the help of her loving and patient family and friends, Ramona faces these challenges - as audiences laugh and cheer her on.
CELTIC FIRE
Friday, February 10, 8pm $38-$48
A performance of pure Celtic magic, the music from Celtic Fire is traditional at its core, with all of Ireland's national instruments: fiddles, pipes, accordion, whistles and guitars. The dancers take the stage with brilliant flashes of speed, youth and exuberance, performing reels, jigs and slow airs. The gorgeous songs will break your heart and the solo dance routines will make you want to get up and have a go yourself. An amazing Celtic experience, audiences will be swept away to Ireland, its culture, its land, its pubs, its music and, its heart.
PEKING ACROBATS
Saturday, February 11, 7pm $25 (child) - $35 (adult)
The Peking Acrobats defy the laws of gravity, physics and body mechanics, somewhat like watching Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon LIVE, without camera tricks or special effects. The members of this amazing troupe are outstanding athletes with grace and charisma in addition to their razor-sharp precision. An uplifting, awe-inspiring and incredible exploration of the full extent of human potential, this show will fill you with the wonder of a 10-year-old!
Lorna Luft CELEBRATES HER MOTHER Judy Garland
THE LEGEND - THE MUSIC - THE MEMORIES
SONGS MY MOTHER TAUGHT ME
Sunday, February 12, 4pm $42-$55
Lorna Luft's acclaimed career has encompassed virtually every arena of entertainment. Born to legendary entertainer Judy Garland and producer Sid Luft, music was an integral part of her childhood. A celebrated live performer, stage, film and television actress, best-selling author, recording artist and Emmy-nominated producer - Luft continues to triumph in every medium with critics labeling her one of the most vibrant, versatile and exciting artists on stage today.
THE COLOR OF JUSTICE
Monday, February 13, 9am and Noon $8
Salute Black History Month with Theatreworks USA's story of a courageous young girl, a great warrior for justice and the battle they wage for equal rights. Inspired by the civil rights case Brown v. Board of Education, this powerful performance portrays America in the 1950's and the struggle of African-Americans to obtain equal treatment under the law and changes in the lives of black schoolchildren in America forever.
IL VOCE
Sunday, February 19, 3pm $45-$60
Il Voce puts a fresh face on the global phenomenon of the genre labeled "Classical Crossover" or "Popera." Their amazing sound is created by the combination of these four magical voices and complimented by their beautiful and distinctive look. Soprano Tiffany Desrosiers, tenor Marc Devigne, coloratura soprano Melody Mercredi and baritone DJ Calhoun bring passion and virtuosity to their unique interpretations of romantic, classical, pop and opera favorites, Simply put, Il Voce is "The Voices."
LOS LOBOS
Thursday, February 23, 8pm $35-$40
More than three decades have passed since Los Lobos released their debut album, "Just Another Band from East L.A.", and fans have been hooked ever since. Fans know that Los Lobos isn't "just another" anything, but a band that has consistently evolved artistically while never losing sight of their humble roots. Their latest album "Tin Can Trust," released in August, is their first collection of new and original materials in four years.
SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKS
Saturday, March 3, 8pm $38.50
The Southern Fried Chicks tour is a combination of four very different women, all from the South, and their hilarious take on life, love and the pursuit of happiness. Tales of life and love in the "New South," the "Old South," and the "Deep South" have never been funnier. These original "desperate housewives" guarantee you'll leave the theater wiping your eyes, holding your sides, and waiting for your next helping of the Southern Fried Chicks!
THE PINK FLOYD EXPERIENCE
Tuesday, March 20, 7:30pm $38-$48
More than an homage - it's almost a resurrection. Live from New Zealand, The Pink Floyd Experience will feature a recreation of the music, staging and special effects used by Pink Floyd in what was to become the biggest-grossing tour in history. Awe-inspiring sets and visuals, lasers, stunning lighting, psychedelic projections and an extremely passionate 10-piece band combine for a full-scale, full-on Floydian Spectacular.
ROUTE 66
4 SHOWS WEEKLY IN THE Copley Theatre starting in April
Wed. 1:30pm • Fri. 7:30pm • Sat. 8pm • Sun. 3pm $29
Celebrate the golden era of the "Mother Road" with nostalgia, music and whimsical fun! Get your kicks with Route 66, produced by the Paramount Theatre and directed by Tammy Mader. In this musical comedy, a gang of rowdy Chicago service station attendants strip off their snappy uniforms and head off on a westward-bound road trip filled with music, dance and highway mischief. The show, staged in the intimate, 200-seat Copley Theatre directly across the street from the Paramount, features rock and pop hits from the 1950's and 60's including "King of the Road," "I Get Around," "Little Old Lady from Pasadena," and of course "Route 66."
MUFARO'S BEAUTIFUL DAUGHTERS
Wednesday, April 2, 9:30am and Noon $8
Don't miss out on this Cinderella tale set in Zimbabwe and filled with traditional chanting and African Song. When a great African King desires a wife, the best maidens in the land are invited to meet him. Dallas Children's Theater presents John Steptoe's Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters, a gorgeous Caldecott Award-winning Cinderella tale adapted for the stage.
Frank Ferrante IN AN EVENING WITH GROUCHO
Friday, April 20, 7pm $25-$35
Frank Ferrante recreates his New York, London and PBS triumph as the legendary Groucho Marx in this fast-paced comedy packed with songs, stories and inspired audience interaction. The show is full of Groucho's best one-liners, anecdotes and songs including "Hooray For Captain Spalding," and "Lydia, the Tattooed Lady." The audience becomes part of the show as Ferrante ad-libs his way throughout the performance in grand Groucho style. Perfect for all ages!
BURN THE FLOOR
Saturday, April 21- 4pm and 8pm $55-$65
If you like Dancing with the Stars, you'll LOVE Burn the Floor! Tango, Waltz, Foxtrot, Quick Step, Cha-Cha and more - this show is four-alarm sizzle, athletic, sensual and rocket-fueled! The charismatic cast is polished to a high sheen! This utterly theatrical dance extravaganza with lavish costumes is ballroom reinvented. Experience the hottest dance show ever as spectacularly talented dancers demonstrate their love and passion for their art.
RAINBOW FISH
Sunday, April 22, 3pm ($10) and Monday, April 23, 10am ($8)
With her lovely coloring and shimmering scales, the Rainbow Fish is used to being the most beautiful creature in the ocean. So when the other fish ask her for some silver scales, she refuses. How can she sacrifice the one thing that makes her so unique?
ALMOST Elton John AND THE ROCKET BAND
Friday, May 18, 8pm $31.50
Transport yourself to the days of big hair, outrageous clothes and cheap gasoline! All the magic and music, excitement and energy come alive as Craig A Meyer takes the stage as Almost Elton John! This tribute celebrates decades of chart topping songs from "Benny and the Jets" to "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me" and "Crocodile Rock" to "Candle in the Wind." Barry Manilow says: "Craig A Meyer is one of the most talented people I have ever worked with. He can do ANYTHING!" This isn't just nostalgia! It's today! It's fresh! And it's LIVE at the Paramount.
The Paramount Theatre, located at 8 E. Galena Boulevard in downtown Aurora, Illinois, pampers its guests with excellent, courteous service and exceeds their expectations with a complete theatre experience. The Paramount Theatre is proud to be the recipient of the 2010 Talk of the Town Award for Excellence in Customer Service. A historic landmark, the beautiful, opulent Paramount Theatre boasts no obstructed views, impeccable acoustics and comfortable seats. From the friendly and efficient box office to accessible house managers at the shows, your theater experience will be unforgettable in the suburbs' premier entertainment venue. Amenities include valet parking, nearby garage and street parking, special services for persons with disabilities, discounts on single tickets for senior citizens, active military and military veterans, and discounts for groups of 10 or more. For group tickets, call 630.723.2461.With the addition of the 2-story Grand Gallery in 2006, The Paramount has positioned itself to become the Fox Valley's premiere event center for everything from corporate conferences to wedding receptions. In fact, the Paramount will undoubtedly host several of its own special events throughout the year. Visit ParamountAurora.com for the latest on special events, added shows and meet and greet opportunities.Comments
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