Arts & Entertainment
Rialto Season Offers a Show for Every Taste, Ticket Price
Season highlights include performances by blues singer Gregg Allman, parody musician "Weird Al" Yankovic and comedian George Lopez.
This story was written by Karen Sorensen
Tickets go on sale June 14 for the Rialto Square Theatre's 2103-14 season, which features something for every taste and age group.
Tickets may also be purchased through Ticketmaster.com, at all Ticketmaster outlets or online at www.rialtosquare.com.
Rocky Mountain High- A John Denver Tribute
Friday, October 4, 8 p.m. Tickets: AAA $45, AA, A $35; B, C $30.
The legendary John Denver was a brilliant song writer and a truly gifted performer. Ted Vigil, a man who, according to long-time Denver guitar accompanist Steve Weisberg, closely resembles John both physically and musically, is carrying on the tradition honoring this colossal music icon.
Frank Caliendo
Saturday, October 5, 8 p.m. Tickets AAA $65; AA, A $52.50; B $42.50; C $32.50
Comedian/actor/impressionist Frank Caliendo has been making people laugh his whole career. He is well known for his dead-on impressions of famous actors, politicians, broadcasters and talk show hosts. On stage, Caliendo’s high energy act is a blend of observations, impressions, characters and anecdotal stories that build to a frenetic pace.
“Weird Al” Yankovic – The Alpocalypse Tour
Saturday, October 12, 8 p.m. Tickets AAA $75; AA $55; A $45; B $40; C $35
Three-Time Grammy Award winner and singer / songwriter “Weird Al” Yankovic is best known for his humorous songs that make light of pop culture and that often parody specific songs by contemporary musical acts. He made his Bonnaroo Music Festival debut in June.
Gregg AllmanSaturday, October 19, 8 p.m. Tickets AAA $95; AA $60; A $45; B $40; C $35
Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Famer and NY Times Best Selling Author Gregg Allman is both a founding member of one of the biggest and most important American bands of all time, the still active and thriving Allman Brothers Band. He is currently touring behind his first solo record in 12 years, the Grammy-nominated Low Country Blues. See Gregg Allman in this solo performance as he brings his “Southern Rock” and soulful music to the Rialto for the very first time!
George Lopez
Friday, November 1, 8 p.m. Tickets: AAA, AA, A $61; $B, C $41 ($1 of the ticket will be donated by George Lopez to his charity)
George Lopez, is a multi-talented entertainer whose career encompasses television, film, standup comedy and late-night television. The groundbreaking hit sitcom George Lopez remains a hit with viewers in syndication on both broadcast stations and cable’s Nick at Nite. For mature audiences only.
Whose Live Anyway
Saturday, November 2, 8 p.m. Tickets AAA $55; AA, A $45; B, C $35
Whose Live Anyway is 90 minutes of hilarious improvised comedy and song performed by Whose Line Is It Anyway cast members Ryan Stiles, Greg Proops, Chip Esten and Jeff B. Davis. Like the TV show, all scenes are amazingly invented before your eyes so bring your ideas and you might be asked to join the cast onstage. Contains some adult innuendo. Musical Director Bob Derkach.
James Van Praagh
Friday, November 8, 8 p.m. Tickets AAA $78 (includes spiritual Meet & Greet from 6pm-7pm), AA $49.75; A $38; B $28; C $20
Internationally renowned #1 New York Times Best Selling Author James Van Praagh is considered as a pioneer in the mediumship movement throughout the world, and has been recognized as one of the most accurate spiritual mediums working today.
The Priests
Saturday, November 9, 8 p.m. Tickets: AAA $55, AA, A $45; B $38; C $28
When The Priests released their eponymously-titled album in 2008, they could have had little inkling of what was about to happen to them. As it transpired, plenty did - huge record sales, record-breaking triumphs and global fame. Frs. Martin O'Hagan, Eugene O'Hagan and David Delargy are amongst the most recognized and successful acts in both the religious and secular worlds. Their debut album, sold at such a pace, it secured them a place in the Guinness Book of World Records as the fastest-selling classical debut ever. A story about their musical life, ‘Raising The Roof’ is currently in pre-production and should be in cinemas in late 2014.
Air Supply
Sunday, November 10, 3 p.m. Tickets: AAA $78.50, AA $59.50; A $49.50; B $43.50; C $38.50
With their heavily orchestrated, sweet ballads, the Australian soft rock group Air Supply became a staple of early-'80s radio, scoring a string of seven straight Top Five singles. The albums Lost in Love, The One That You Love, Now & Forever, and The Greatest Hits sold in excess of 20 million copies. The trademark sound of Russell Hitchcock's soaring tenor voice and Graham Russell's simple yet majestic songs created a unique sound that would forever be known as Air Supply. www.airsupplymusic.com
Doc Severinsen Big Band Show featuring Vanessa Thomas
Thursday, November 14, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: AAA $55, AA $48; A $38; B $28; C $20
"Heeeeere's Johnny!" That lead-in, followed by a big band trumpet blast, was the landmark of late night television for three decades. The "Johnny" was Johnny Carson, the announcer was Ed McMahon and the bandleader was Doc Severinsen. His Big Band repertoire includes Ellington and Basie standards, pop, jazz, ballads, big band classics and, of course, The Tonight Show theme.
Spank! The Fifty Shades Parody
Sunday, November 17, 7 p.m. Tickets: AAA, AA, A, B, C $36
It’s time for the saucy book that caused a world sensation to get SPANKED! SPANK! The Fifty Shades Parody is the hilarious new musical that brings all the naughty fun of the best-selling book to life with sharp-witted comedy, musical numbers, steamy and fun performances from the hunky leading man, plus lots of surprises! Get there early for pre-show cocktails, then stay to meet the cast after the show, and pose for a photo with the fetching star himself. SPANK! is not associated with, nor authorized by, author E.L. James or Vintage Press.
Brian Setzer Orchestra
Thursday, November 21, 7:30 p.m. Tickets AAA $89.50; AA $79.50; A $62.50; B $49.50; C $39.50
The Brian Setzer Orchestra, fronted by three-time Grammy Award-winner Brian Setzer, brings you their Christmas Rocks 10th Anniversary Tour!! With a career spanning more than 30 years, Setzer has smash hits as founder/leader of The Stray Cats, his 18-piece Brian Setzer Orchestra and as a solo artist. His November concert will include Setzer’s legendary guitar magic on hits such as “Rock This Town,” “(She’s) Sexy +17,” “Stray Cat Strut,” and “Jump, Jive and Wail” and lots more, as well as his re-imagined and acclaimed Holiday classics
Jim Brickman The Magic of Christmas
Saturday, November 30, 8 p.m. Tickets AAA $100 (includes Meet & Greet); AA $55; A $45; B $40; C $35
Jim Brickman has revolutionized the sound of solo piano with his pop-style instrumentals and star-studded vocal collaborations and has made him the best-selling solo piano artist of our time. Brickman's best-known compositions include the chart-toppers “Valentine,” “The Gift,” “Love of My Life,” “Simple Things” and “Peace.” Throughout his long career, Brickman has also shared his artistry with luminaries such as Kenny Loggins, Lady Antebellum, Dave Koz, Olivia Newton-John, Michael Bolton, Carly Simon and more!
Von Heidecke’s Chicago Festival Ballet – The Nutcracker
Sunday, December 1, 2 p.m. Tickets: AA, A $38; B, C $30; Children 12 & Under $20.50
This magical production features lavish costumes, a growing Christmas tree, a battle between mice and soldiers, a journey through the land of whirling snowflakes and a joyous visit to the Kingdom of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Keep the holiday spirit alive and enjoy this breathtaking performance. This holiday favorite fairytale is perfect for the entire family.
Max & Ruby Nutcracker Suite
Friday, December 6, 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets AAA $53; AA $38; A $28; B $18; C $16
Max & Ruby bring to life a wonderful tradition this holiday season as they take to the stage their most magical performance yet! The beloved bunny siblings star in Koba Entertainment’s brand new musical production Max & Ruby in the Nutcracker Suite. Set to the timeless music of Tchaikovsky as well as delightful original songs, this 90-minute event boasts captivating original choreography and is perfect for the whole family. Max & Ruby originated as an enchanting book series by Rosemary Wells, and has sold over 3 million books worldwide. Making their television debut in 2002, Max & Ruby’s playful high jinks are enjoyed by children around the world.
Joliet American Legion Band – “The Sounds of Christmas”
Sunday, December 8, 2 p.m. Tickets: Canned good or other staple food item
The award-winning Joliet American Legion Band presents, "The Sounds of Christmas.” Enriched with tradition, military sharpness and musical integrity these musicians are dedicated to bring you a quality performance with their tremendously rousing musical spirit.
It’s A Wonderful Life- Live Radio Broadcast
Friday, December 13, 7 p.m. Tickets: AA, A, B, C $10
Sponsored by Star 96.7; 1340 WJOL; 98.3 WCCQ; 100.7 WRXQ. Be taken back in time as NextMedia presents a live radio broadcast and theatre performance of It’s A Wonderful Life. Take the kids and grandkids to this multi-generational nostalgic performance. Experience first-hand how live radio broadcasts used to be made, while watching one of your favorite Christmas classics come to life on stage. The performance will be broadcast live on 1340 WJOL.
A Christmas Carol
Thursday, December 19, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: AA $48; A $38; B $28; C$20
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol has enchanted audiences the world over with its simple message of selfless giving. Ebenezer Scrooge, a most unrepentant, miserly fellow, is made to see the light as he survive s a merciless battery of revelations by the ghosts of his own Christmases: Past, Present and Future. Filled with many of the most beloved traditional carols of the season, this enchanting new production transports the audience back to the cobblestone streets of Victorian London. New music enhances this timeless tale as the audience follows the soul transforming journey of Ebenezer Scrooge.
Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra- The Magical Music of Disney
Friday, December 20, 8 p.m. Tickets: AAA $59; AA $40; A, B $30; C $20
Disney classics come to life in this magical multi-media experience. From Aladdin to the Little Mermaid, hear and see Disney favorites like never before!
Bridal Expo 2013 at the Rialto Square Theatre
Sunday, January 19, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets: $4-pak $20; Single Ticket $8 in advance; $10 day of Expo
This is the only Bridal Expo you will need to attend! Bridal Expo at the Rialto brings the area’s BEST wedding professionals all under one roof where you will FIND new ideas; SAVE time and money and DISCOVER all your options. Take part in Wedding Creation 101. Three separate enlightening sessions to help you plan for your perfect Wedding Day!
Hello, Dolly! Starring Sally Struthers
Thursday, Jan. 23, 8 p.m. Tickets: AA, A $50; B $45; C $40
Winner of ten Tony Awards including Best Musical, Hello, Dolly! is one of the most enduring Broadway classics. Emmy- award winning Sally Struthers (All In the Family, Gilmore Girls) stars as the strong-willed matchmaker Dolly, as she travels to Yonkers, NY to find a match for the ornery "well-known unmarried half-a-millionaire" Horace Vandergelder. Featuring an irresistible story and an unforgettable score including the title song, “Put on Your Sunday Clothes,” “It Only Takes A Moment,” and the show-stopping “Before the Parade Passes By,” Hello, Dolly! has been charming audiences around the world for nearly 50 years.
The Nureyev State Ballet - Sleeping Beauty
Friday, January 24, 8 p.m. Tickets: AA $58; A $48; B $38, C $28
The Nureyev State Ballet Theatre, from the city of Ufa, Hometown of Legendary Dancer of 20th century. Rudolf Nureyev brings the world’s most beloved ballet to glorious life! This company of 60 distinguished dancers has showcased the unparalleled art of Russian ballet to countries throughout the world.
Church Basement Ladies- A Mighty Fortress Is Our Basement
Sunday, February 9, 2 p.m. Tickets: AA $48; A $38; B $28; C $20
In the fourth installment of the Church Basement ladies series of Musical Comedies, A MIGHTY FORTRESS IS OUR BASEMENT the ladies are at it again. A celebration of the church basement kitchen and the women who work there, Church Basement Ladies is a musical comedy featuring four distinct characters and their relationships as they organize the food and solve the problems of a rural Minnesota church about to undergo changes in 1964. What’s more, you do not have to have seen past installments in order to know what’s going on.
Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra- Copland Clarinet Concerto and Tchaikovsky’s 6th Symphony
Sunday, February 16, 6 p.m. Tickets: AAA $59; AA $40; A, B $30; C $20
The IPO performs a classic piece of musical Americana, a modern interpretation of Galileo’s first treatise on stars, and one of the great musical masterworks of all time, all in one concert!
Sweet Charity
Tuesday, March 4, 8 p.m. Tickets: AA, A $50; B $45; C $40
Before Chicago there was Sweet Charity! Combining the inspiration of Bob Fosse and the hilarity of Neil Simon, Boebe Productions presents Sweet Charity, with music by Cy Coleman, lyrics by Dorothy Fields and book by Neil Simon. Charity Valentine is the eternal optimist. While working at the seedy Fan-Dango ballroom, where the motto is “Hey Big Spender”, she often thinks that “There Must Be Something Better Than This”. Finally, she seems to have met a decent fellow in Oscar and experiences wonderful things: “If My Friends Could See Me Now!” Trying to hide her true profession, she lies to him and tells him that she works in a bank. Soon, Oscar asks Charity to marry him. Unfortunately, Oscar discovers Charity’s real profession and backs out of the marriage. Nevertheless, Charity continues to remain hopeful that good things will happen in her life. With showstopping production numbers, this show is sure to be a crowd pleaser.
Get the Led Out (Led Zeppelin Tribute)
Friday, March 14, 8 p.m. Tickets: AAA $49.50; AA, A $39.50; B $29.50, C $25.50
Dubbed by the media as the “American Led Zeppelin,” Get The Led Out have captured the essence of the recorded music of Led Zeppelin and brought it to the big concert stage.
The Fantasticks
Sunday, March 9, 3 p.m. Tickets: AA $48; A $38; B $28, C $20
Book by Tom Jones, Music by Harvey Schmidt, Lyrics by Tom Jones, Based on Les Romanesques by Edmond Rostand A legend in its own time, The Fantasticks is the longest running musical in history! A simple romantic comedy about a boy, a girl, their meddling fathers and the wall that divides them, The Fantasticks is crafted with charming simplicity, captivating music and whimsy. This timeless tale will ignite your imagination, delight your senses and leave you completely fulfilled. Whether you are revisiting this beloved musical or seeing it for the first time, it guarantees entertainment!
San Jose Taiko Tuesday, April 8, 7:30 p.m. Tickets: AAA $55; AA $48; A $38; B $28, C $20
San Jose Taiko (SJT) has mesmerized audiences and critics with the powerful, spellbinding and propulsive sounds of the taiko drums for three decdes. Inspired by traditional Japanese drumming, company performers express the beauty and harmony of the human spirit through the voice of the taiko as they strive to create new dimensions in movement and music. The Company creates a contemporary repertoire with the taiko, the Japanese drum. In addition to fusing Japanese, Latin, Brazilian, and African rhythms, the company enhances its performances with innovative choreography, lighting and stage design.
Chanticleer
Sunday, April 13, 6 p.m. Tickets: AAA $55; AA $48; A $38; B $28, C $20
Called “the world’s reigning male chorus” by The New Yorker magazine, and named Ensemble of the Year by Musical America in 2008, the GRAMMY® award winning ensemble Chanticleer celebrates its 35th anniversary in the 2012-13 season. Chanticleer is known around the world as “an orchestra of voices” for the seamless blend of its twelve male voices ranging from countertenor to bass and its original interpretations of vocal literature, from Renaissance to jazz, and from gospel to venturesome new music. Since Chanticleer began releasing recordings in 1981, the group has sold well over a million copies and won two GRAMMY® awards.
Green Day’s American Idiot
Wednesday, April 23, 7 p.m. Tickets: AA, A $50; B $45, C $40
A critical smash on Broadway and in London, the two-time Tony Award® winning hit musical AMERICAN IDIOT tells the story of three lifelong friends, forced to choose between their dreams and the safety of suburbia. Based on Green Day’s GRAMMY® Award-winning multi-platinum album and featuring the hits “Boulevard of Broken Dreams,” “21 Guns,” “Wake Me Up When September Ends,” “Holiday” and the blockbuster title track, AMERICAN IDIOT boldly takes the American musical where it’s never gone before. With direction by Michael Mayer (Spring Awakening), choreography by Steven Hoggett (Once) and orchestrations and arrangements by Tom Kitt (Next to Normal), the result is an experience Charles Isherwood of The New York Times declares “thrilling, emotionally charged, and as moving as any Broadway musical I’ve seen this year!” AMERICAN IDIOT contains adult content and strong language.
Organ Extravaganza XVIII – Music of Your Life
Saturday, April 26, 7 p.m. Tickets: AA, A, B, C $30
The Rialto Square Theatre presents its 18th Annual Organ Pops Concert featuring a Symphony Orchestra, The Rialto Barton Grand Theatre Pipe Organ, along with word famous keyboard artists. This year’s show will feature pop hits in a spectacular array of talent on a total of 9 keyboards along with an Orchestra. Featured will be Pierre Fracalanza, Nationally Renowned Steinway Artist, Organists Chris Elliott and Jelani Eddington and a Orchestra.
Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra- Bernstein’s West Side Story and Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet
Friday, May 16, 8 p.m. Tickets: AAA $59; AA $40; A, B $30; C $20
Two beloved works inspired by Shakespeare take center stage on the final concert of the season. Also, rising violin star, Anna Lee, makes her Chicago debut performing the beloved Glazunov Violin Concerto!
Festival of Trees ComEd Festival of Trees Opening Night Celebration
Monday, November 25, 5:30 to 10 p.m., Tickets: $40
Be the first to walk through the doors and view over sixty Christmas trees and wreaths designed by the area’s finest decorators. Enjoy an evening draped in beauty and holiday splendor as you savor hors d’oeuvres from the area’s finest restaurants and caterers. Business/Cocktail attire
ComEd Festival of Trees Holiday Lunch Break
Tuesday, November 26, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets: Advance Tickets $12; Day of Lunch $15
Gather your friends and family for a lunch time treat and take a break from the hustle and bustle. Whether you’re working or off preparing for the holidays, this is a great opportunity to grab a tasty bite to eat in the warmth of the Festival of Trees. Price includes Festival of Tree admission, boxed lunch and a soft drink.
ComEd Festival of Trees Festival of the Vine- Wine TastingIn Partnership with Joliet Junior College Hospitality Management Program
Tuesday, November 26, 6 to 9 p.m. Tickets: Advance $30; Evening of $35
Come sip the best of the vine as you sample many different styles of wine. Each tasting station will include a sommelier from the JJC hospitality management program. Unlimited tastings will be served. 21 or older event. The night will also include light appetizers and cash bar.
Joliet Area Community Hospice Lights of Love
Wednesday, November 28, 5 to 7 p.m. Tickets: Complimentary through Hospice with purchase of memorial ornament
The Festival of Trees will be shining even brighter as the Joliet Area Community Hospice holds their annual Lights of Love tree lighting ceremony.
ComEd Festival of Trees Teddy Bear Tea
Friday, November 29, 9:30 a.m. and noon. Tickets: Adults $22.50; Children 12 and under $17.50
Create a memory that will last forever and enjoy a special holiday brunch complete with a special appearance from St. Nick himself. Children will be given a keepsake Teddy Bear to take home with them to remember this extraordinary day. Limited seating. Your ticket to Teddy Bear Tea gains you re-entry into the movies showing later that evening.
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