The MAC Sets 2016-16 Performing Series
By: Tyler Peterson Jun. 08, 2016
McAninch Arts Center (MAC) at College of DuPage is pleased to announce its 2016-2017 Season Performance Series. Subscriptions are on sale now for an exciting selection of music, dance, theater, comedy and literature events showcasing a roster of world-class headliners. Single tickets go on sale at the Box Office Saturday, Aug. 6 at 11 a.m.
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The MAC's 2016-2017 Season is made possible in part with support by The DuPage Foundation, Hilton Lisle/Naperville, WDCB 90.9 FM and the College of DuPage Foundation. New Philharmonic's 2016-2017 Season is made possible in part with support by Brookdale Glen Ellyn, The JCS Fund of The DuPage Foundation, Smith Financial Advisors Inc., Sullivan Taylor & Gumina, WDCB 90.9 FM and the College of DuPage Foundation. McAninch Arts Center 2016 Lakeside Pavilion Free Outdoor Summer Series is made possible in part with support from College of DuPage, WDCB 90.9 FM and the COD Foundation. The appearance of Brass Transit is sponsored by Follett's College of DuPage Bookstore. Established as a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit charitable organization in 1967, the College of DuPage Foundation raises monetary and in-kind gifts to increase access to education and to enhance cultural opportunities for the surrounding community. For more information about the College of DuPage Foundation, visit foundation.cod.edu or call 630.942.2462. Programs at the MAC are partially supported through a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency. McAninch Arts Center 2016-2017 Performance Series Subscriptions are on sale now. To subscribe by purchasing tickets to three or more shows, call the MAC Box Office at 630.942.4000. Single tickets go on sale to the public in person at the Box Office Saturday, Aug. 6 at 11 a.m. online at AtTheMAC.org Sunday, Aug. 7 and by Box Office phone Tuesday, Aug. 9.
The following performances will take place in the MAC's Belushi Performance Hall: MOMIX - "Opus Cactus"
Saturday, Sept. 10, 7:30 p.m.
$42 (B) | $52 (A) As part of their current international tour, Moses Pendleton and the internationally renowned dancer-illusionist troupe MOMIX join forces for a mesmerizing production that brings the landscape of the American Southwest to the stage with dynamic acrobatic images of cacti, slithering lizards, fire dancers and more. "[MOMIX] is the IMAX version of dance theater...a savvy mix of puppetry, strobe lights and multi-media," says Star Ledger. New Philharmonic presents "Passionate Virtuosity - Prokofiev and Tchaikovsky"
Kirk Muspratt - Music Director and Conductor
Saturday, Sept. 24, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 25, 3 p.m.
$49 Adult Award-winning Egyptian American pianist Wael Farouk joins New Philharmonic's season opening celebration with Prokofiev's first concerto. Tchaikovsky's last symphony, the powerful "Pathetique," reflects his personal heartbreak while his "Overture of 1812" brings inspiration, triumph and cannons. The Second City - "Free Speech (While Supplies Last)"
$32 (B) | $36 (A) | Gold Circle $46
Saturday, Oct. 1, 6 p.m. "Free Speech! (While Supplies Last)" provides an irreverent look at America's electoral insanity. This topical new show features political satire made famous by Second City stars like Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert and Keegan-Michael Key, as well as brand new scenes, songs and improv straight from their sold-out shows in Chicago and Toronto. An Acoustic Evening with John Hiatt
Sunday, Oct. 2, 7:30 p.m.
$45 (B) | $55 (A) | Gold Circle $60 American rock guitarist, pianist, singer, master lyricist and satirical story teller John Hiatt remains one of the most respected and influential American singer-songwriters. This Grammy Award-nominated artist's songs have been recorded Bob Dylan, Bonnie Raitt and even the cartoon bear band of Disney's film, "The Country Bears." The Los Angeles Times hails Hiatt as "...one of rock's most astute singer-songwriters of the last 40 years."Stephen Schwartz and Friends
Friday, Oct. 7, 8 p.m.
$53 (B) | $63 (A) | Gold Circle $73 From Academy, Grammy and Tony Award-winning composer and musical icon Stephen Schwartz ("Godspell," "Pippin," "Wicked") comes a thrilling concert experience featuring award-winning Broadway vocalists in an unforgettable evening of songs, including as "Day by Day," "Corner of the Sky" and "Popular," behind the scenes stories and more. Chicago Jazz Orchestra starring Allan Harris
Saturday, Oct. 8, 8 p.m.
$39 (B) | $44 (A) | Gold Circle $49 Known for its unique performances and one-of-a-kind collaborations, Chicago Jazz Orchestra is considered one of the Windy City's cultural crown jewels, celebrating the unique American Art form of jazz orchestra music. Featuring Allan Harris, dubbed by Tony Bennet as his "favorite voice", and led by artistic director Jeff Lindberg, this 17-piece ensemble has received local and national acclaim for more than 35 years. The Piano Men - A Tribute to Elton John & Billy Joel
Friday, Oct. 14, 7:30 p.m.
$47 (B) | $49 (A) | Gold Circle $55 Two pianos in one incredibly fun night featuring Broadway veterans Craig Meyers and Donnie Kerr. Channeling two of the most critically acclaimed musicians of a generation, the Piano Men covers nearly four decades of smash singles, sold-out shows, and perennial classics in the vein of Rock 'n' Roll legends Elton John and Billy Joel.Herb Alpert & Lani Hall
Saturday, Oct. 15, 7:30 p.m.
$65 (B) | $75 (A) | Gold Circle $80 With five No. 1 hits, 28 albums on the Billboard charts, eight Grammys, 14 Platinum albums and 15 Gold albums, the iconic trumpeter Herbert "Herb" Alpert of Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass and partner Lani Hall, former lead vocalist for Sérgio Mendes & Brazil '66, are set to bring Hollywood pizazz to Glen Ellyn with a program of popular songs from a career that has spurred sales of more than 72 million albums worldwide. The Shanghai Acrobats of the People's Republic of China in "Shanghai Nights"
Sunday, Oct. 16, 2 and 6 p.m.
$27 Youth | $47 Adult Direct from Shanghai, the P.R. of China, the Shanghai Acrobats of the People's Republic of China debuts their newest spectacle offering never-ending thrills for young and old alike. This legendary troupe ranks amongst the best acrobatic teams in the world has been thrilling audiences for 50 years with gravity-defying acts, contortionists and amazing feats of acrobatics, martial arts and more. Rick Steves: "Travel as a Political Act"
Saturday, Oct. 22, 2 p.m.
$35 (B) | $38 (A) | Gold Circle $45 As a beloved host and writer of the popular public television series "Rick Steves' Europe" and besting-selling author of over 50 European travel books, he encourages Americans to travel as "temporary locals" in order to connect with others and have a better understanding of other cultures. Rick shares how travel has shaped his world view, social activism and political work. Learn how to turn your next trip into a broadening experience. A Q&A session with book signing will follow the lecture. Exclusive lunch with Rick Steves 12 noon. Limit 10. Tickets are $175 (includes show ticket). The New Philharmonic presents "An Evening of Gershwin"
Kirk Muspratt - Music Director and Conductor | Kimberly Jones - Soprano | Bill McMurray - Baritone | Marta Aznavoorian - Guest Pianist
Saturday, Oct. 22, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 23, 3 p.m.
$49 Adult American music at its finest! Enjoy Gershwin's unique mix of classical and jazz styles with his "Rhapsody in Blue" for piano and the orchestra's "An American in Paris." One hundred voices, orchestra, and our two soloists unite in the riveting songs from "Porgy and Bess" including "Summertime," "I Got Plenty O'Nuttin," "Bess You Is My Woman Now" and "It Ain't Necessarily So." Featuring the Northwest Indiana Symphony Chorus (Nancy Menk, Director) An Evening with Bruce Hornsby
Friday, Oct. 28, 7:30 p.m.
$65 | Gold Circle $75 Winner of 1987 Grammy Award for Best New Artist with Bruce Hornsby and the Range, the 1990 Grammy Award for Best Bluegrass Album, and the 1994 Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance this American singer and keyboardist known for the spontaneity and creativity of his live performances continues to discover clever and expansive ways to tap into many of the genres that have influenced his music over the years-pop, jazz, bluegrass, country and modern classical. The Havana Cuba All Stars: "Cuban Nights"
Sunday, Nov. 6, 2 p.m.
$39 (B) | $46 (A) | Gold Circle $49 Direct from Havana, Cuba and celebrating our restored relations, this all-star ensemble of Cuba's most prominent musicians presents its North American debut tour in 2016-2017. An eclectic mix of song and dance, "Cuban Nights" brings the traditions and styles of the island nation for a one-night-only extravaganza that is sure to bring down the house. Don't miss what is sure to be a highlight of the MAC's 30th anniversary season. Theatreworks USA presents "Junie B.'s Essential Survival Guide to School"
Saturday, Nov. 12, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Youth $12 | Adults $20
One hour in length, recommended for ages 5-10 This Theatreworks original play brings some of the popular Junie B. Jones books to life on stage. The play draws on author Barbara Parks' "Junie B. First Grader (at Last!)," "Junie B., Boss of Lunch" and "Junie B., One-Man Band." Audiences will meet Junie B.'s new friends, see her work in the school cafeteria and learn what she does to make the best of a bad situation. Features a post-show meet and greet with the cast and books available for purchase in the lobby. College of DuPage Theater presents "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens, adapted by William J. Norris, directed by Connie Canaday Howard
Friday, Nov. 25, 7 p.m. | Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 26 and 27, 3 and 7 p.m.
Youth $12 | Adults $15 This timeless tale and College Theater tradition returns to the MAC for its 16th season! A mean-spirited old man, a poor but optimistic clerk and three visiting ghosts join forces to take us on a magical journey and show us the true meaning of the holiday season. Featuring a cast of over 60 local actors and children, this show is perfect for the entire family.Wynonna Judd & The Big Noise Christmas
Friday, Dec. 2, 8 p.m.
$89 | Gold Circle $99 Five-time Grammy Award-winning Country music singer Wynonna Judd's sultry, crooning voice, paired with the undeniable skill and artistry of her band The Big Noise, makes for a perfect paring that cannot be missed. "Wynonna's in the big field now... With her tight band behind her after touring together for several years, she just sounds like she's home." -NPR Kathleen Madigan
Saturday, Dec. 3, 8 p.m.
$35 (B) | $39 (A) | Gold Circle $44 Throughout her 25-year career, American comedian and TV personality Madigan has performed on nearly every standup television show from Leno, Letterman, Conan and Ferguson to "The Last Comic Standing," where she was a finalist and later a judge. AXS calls her, "the comedian for women of intelligence and maturity to enjoy;" and The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel says: "[Madigan] feels like a friend regaling you with a humorous tale....She has an easygoing, salt-of-the-earth charm." The Second City - Dysfunctional Holiday Revue
Saturday, Dec. 10, 6 and 9 p.m.
$32 (B) | $36 (A) | Gold Circle $46 The Second City returns to the MAC with a new cast, new material and a sprig of holiday mischief to this night of spirited fun. Never performed the same way twice, this laugh-out-loud comedy offers the perfect break from holiday stress. Von Heidecke's Chicago Festival Ballet: "The Nutcracker" with New Philharmonic
Kirk Muspratt, Conductor
Saturday, Dec. 17, 2 and 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 18, 1 and 5 p.m.
$32 Youth | $43 Adult The gorgeous holiday classic returns with its a magical full-scale production for four magical performances featuring guest artists and accompaniment from New Philharmonic Orchestra for a rare opportunity to see this magnificent ballet set to live music.
New Philharmonic presents "New Year's Eve: 40 Years of New Philharmonic"
Kirk Muspratt - Music Director and Conductor| Jesse Donner - Tenor
Saturday, Dec. 31, 2, 5:30 and 9 p.m.
$65 Maestro Kirk Muspratt welcomes Luminarts Foundation and Metropolitan Opera National Council award-winning tenor, Jesse Donner. Mr. Donner appeared in the Lyric Opera of Chicago production of "Nabucco" and will be singing in "Der Rosenkavalier" His NYE selections will include "Freunde, das leben ist lebenswert" from Lehar's "Giuditta" and "La fleur que tu m'avait jetee" from Bizet's "Carmen." Revel in New Philharmonic's musical spectrum with traditional Viennese musical selections from Strauss and Lehar to light classical from Von Suppe and Tchaikovsky to movie favorites. Russian National Ballet Theatre - "Swan Lake"
Sunday, Jan. 15, 2 and 6 p.m.
$46 Youth | $56 Adult The Russian National Ballet Theatre, direct from Moscow, brings "Swan Lake" to life at the MAC with this lavish, full-scale musical production with a company of 50 dancers. One of the most beloved fantasies of all time, this breathtaking performance is sure to be a hit for the young and old alike. "The Washington Post calls Russian National Ballet Theatre's production, "a cut above many of its rivals...the real thing." New Philharmonic presents "The Mikado"
Kirk Muspratt - Music Director and Conductor | Michael La Tour - Stage Director
Saturday, Jan. 28, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 29, 3 p.m.
$55 Adult Gilbert and Sullivan's most performed light opera has been in constant production for the last 130 years. "The Mikado" is a comedic masterpiece of British political satire. Thinly disguising the farce by setting it in a fictional Japanese locale where flirting is a capital crime, our characters maneuver arranged marriages, disguises, jilted lovers, and greedy, inept government officials. Sung in English. Theatreworks USA presents "Pete the Cat"
Friday, Feb. 3, 7:30 p.m.
Youth $12 | Adults $20
One hour in length, recommended for ages 3-9 Pete the Cat never loses his cool. Jimmy Biddle never strays from his routine. That is, until the groovy blue cat moves in with The Biddles for the summer. Can cat and boy ever be friends? When Jimmy draws a blank in art class, Pete's the perfect pal to lead the mission to help Jimmy find his inspiration. Join Jimmy and Pete on a new adventure of friendship, all the way to Paris and back again in a VW Bus. Features a post-show meet and greet with the cast and books available for purchase in the lobby. Giordano Dance Chicago
Saturday, Feb. 4, 7:30 p.m.
$39 (B) | $49 (A) America's original jazz dance company and a local icon, this magnificent ensemble of dynamic performers have been wowing audiences around the country for more than 50 years. Known for its high-energy, high-impact artistry, GDC continually receives critical and audience acclaim for its original programming. "The 10 dancers in this company are fearless athletes with Olympian stamina who bring a rousing conviction and unabated dynamism to everything they do," says the Chicago Sun-Times. After the performance, 50 lucky audience members will have to opportunity to join the company on stage for a master class (all skill levels welcome). Rick Michel and His 12-Piece Orchestra - "Frank... A Musical Journey"
Friday, Feb. 10, 7:30 p.m.
$45 (B) | $49 (A) | Gold Circle $56 Rick Michel returns to the MAC, this time with his full 12-piece orchestra, to commemorate the beloved Frank Sinatra with new songs and stories, as well as some of his greatest hits. Rick Michel conveys the richness of Frank's life by performing the signature songs of the times, which were written by some of the finest composers and lyricists of the 20th Century. Woven together by a poignant narrative, the performance paints a portrait of Frank that provides audiences an intimate glimpse of the life he lived . . . his way.
The Five Irish Tenors
Sunday, Feb. 12, 2 p.m.
$49 (B) | $59 (A) | Gold Circle $69 Direct from Dublin and following in the footsteps of the great Irish Tenor John McCormack, "The Five Irish Tenors" fuses Irish wit and boisterous charm, with lyricism, dramatic flair and operatic style to bring you a unique Irish tenor concert experience. This distinctive program includes W.B Yeats's "My Wild Irish Rose," "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling," "Toora Loora Loora," the glorious "Danny Boy," and more performed by Ireland's most legendary tenors. Theatreworks USA presents "The Lightning Thief"
Friday, Feb. 24, 7:30 p.m.
Youth $12 | Adults $20
One hour in length, recommended for ages 8-12 Percy Jackson is about to be kicked out of boarding school...again. And that's the least of his troubles. Theatreworks USA brings one of Kid Lit's most beloved characters to life with a thrilling quest that sees Percy traverse the perils of Olympus, solve riddles of the gods, and come to terms with the father who abandoned him. Adapted from the book "The Lightning Thief" by Rick Riordan, this stage adventure has been hailed by the New York Post as "...an action-packed musical with heroic battles and mythological beasties." The evening includes a post-show meet and greet with the cast and books available for purchase in the lobby. "Seven Things I've Learned: An Evening with Ira Glass"
Saturday, Feb. 25, 8 p.m.
$69 B | $76 (A) | Meet & Greet $175Ira Glass, host of NPR's award-winning "This American Life" talks shop. With a nearly 30 years of provocative interviews and innovative shows, this media maven is gearing up to share all his secrets. Join Glass as he recounts some of the more memorable events that led to his career as one of the seminal voices in American radio. Exclusive meet-and-greet with Ira Glass before the show. Only 40 tickets available. Tickets are $175 and includes meet-and-greet access and gold circle seating. Mike Super 2.OH!
Saturday, March 4, 7:30 p.m.
$46 B | $52 (A) | Gold Circle $55 The winner of NBC's hit show "Phenomenon" and a top finalist on NBC's "America's Got Talent" is back by popular demand for an evening of all new magic. The magical mystifier brings his jaw-dropping, eye-popping magic and illusion to the astonishment of families across the nation. His humor and appeal have made him one of the most sought after magicians in the world. Exclusive meet-and-greet with Mike Super before the show. Only 20 tickets available. Tickets are $150 and includes meet-and-greet access and show ticket. The High Kings
Friday, March 10, 8 p.m.
$36 (B) | $39 (A) | Gold Circle $49 Repeatedly named Ireland's "Folk Band of the Year," The High Kings have sold out hundreds of shows in both Ireland and the US, made numerous TV appearances, recorded three studio albums and one live album and achieved platinum status with their first two albums. This incredible high-energy band showcases their versatility and skills as multi-instrumentalists, bringing a rousing acoustic flavor to brand new songs, as well as some old favorites. The Irish Echo says, "No other band can rival the High Kings for talent of reinterpretation, spirit of tradition, and integrity of purpose." Black Violin
Saturday, March 11, 7:30 p.m.
$40 (B) | $46 (A) | Gold Circle $50 Black Violin is a duo who has blended classical, hip-hop, rock R&B and bluegrass music, breaking music stereotypes. Live, they are accompanied by their incredible band, featuring ace turntable whiz DJ SPS and a drummer. "Black Violin works hard, but makes it all look like play... Sometime they play with the intense seriousness of orchestral soloists; at others they fiddle as if at a hoedown; at still others they strum the violin and viola like guitars," says the New York Times. World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra
Sunday, March 19, 2 p.m.
$36 (B) | $39 (A) | Gold Circle $46 Often imitated but never duplicated, The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra is considered to be one of the greatest dance bands of all time. The group won its place in history by earning the first-ever gold record awarded for the unforgettable tune, "Chattanooga Choo Choo." Experience the unique swinging sound of this legendary band with favorites including "In the Mood," "Moonlight Serenade," "Pennsylvania 6-5000" and "Rhapsody in Blue."Capitol Steps
Saturday, April 1, 4 and 8 p.m.
$42 (B) | $44 (A) | Gold Circle $49 For more than 30 years, Capitol Steps have been putting politics and scandal to music. Founded by former U.S. Senate staffers who set out to satirize the political world in which they were employed, Capitol Steps uses song parodies and original sketches to bring to light the comedic political situations of our country. They're sure to have plenty of great new material to usher in our new president New Philharmonic Presents "ENCORE!"
Kirk Muspratt - Music Director and Conductor | David Taylor - Violin
Saturday, April 8, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 9, 3 p.m.
$49 Adult Overwhelming audience requests for the return of CSO assistant principal violinist David Taylor made him an easy choice to close New Philharmonic's 40th Anniversary Season. Taylor will be performing the Lalo concerto, the piece that prompted Tchaikovsky to compose his violin concerto and is an exquisite taste of Spain. Saint-Saens' ingenious use of piano, two and four hands and organ brought a fresh approach to the symphonic form and showcases the MAC's new organ. Music City Hit-Makers
Friday, April 28, 7:30 p.m.
$48 Adult The most famous people you've never heard of. Music City Hit-Makers fuses Nashville Grammy Award-winning songwriters and a band comprised of top studio musicians with the artistry of a live symphony orchestra. It's an extraordinary musical experience you don't want to miss! These singer songwriters perform their #1 hits and share their stories behind the music. Chicago Symphony Orchestra presents Once Upon a Symphony - "The Bremen Town Musicians"
Sunday, May 7, 1:30 and 3:15 p.m.
$14 Youth | $16 Adult When four farm animals are told they are no longer needed to work on the farm, they set off for the town of Bremen, where they dream of becoming musicians. Along the way they come upon a house full of robbers! The four friends quickly decide to work together to scare away the robbers, discovering that they each have courage that they didn't know they possessed. Once Upon a Symphony is a program of the Negaunee Music Institute at the CSO. The productions, created specifically for the CSO's youngest audience members, blend together vibrant music performed by CSO musicians.
The following performances will take place in the MAC's Playhouse Theatre:
Buffalo Theatre Ensemble Presents "Don't Dress for Dinner" by Marc Camoletti
Sept. 9 - Oct. 9; Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 3 p.m.
Preview: Thursday, Sept. 8
$35 Adult Hidden identities and outrageous infidelities take center stage in this Camoletti's hysterically funny sequel to Camoletti's "Boeing Boeing," recognized by the "Guinness Book of Records" as the most performed French play throughout the world. Buffalo Theatre Ensemble Presents "Good People" by David Lindsay-Abaire
Feb. 3 - March 5; Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 3 p.m.
Preview: Thursday, Feb. 2
$35 Adult The New York Post hails this play set in an old South Boston neighborhood as "poignant, brave and almost subversive in its focus on what it really means to be down on your luck." "Good People" garnered the 2011 New York Drama Critics' Circle Award and 2011 Tony, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards for Frances McDormand's portrayal of Margie. Buffalo Theatre Ensemble Presents "Improbable Fiction" by Alan Ayckbourn
May 5 - June 4; Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 3 p.m.
Preview: Thursday, May 4
$35 Adult Sharp comedy and affectionate satire characterize this zany play where imagination becomes reality to offer a peek into the creative process of a writer. CLUB MAC performances For Club MAC Performances, the MAC's intimate Playhouse Theatre is transformed into an intimate cabaret setting with café tables, wine, and great artists. Details of 2016-2017 Club MAC performances will be announced at a later date.
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