[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zI3FKrtymL0?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Paul goes behind the curtain with the multi-talented jazz artist Bryan Eng. Bryan grew up on the east coast but found his musical grounding at Northwestern University and Chicago where…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vguGFVuNZIY?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] In Harry Potter and the Cursed Child interview Part One, you met several actors who play the younger generation and supporting cast. In this Part TWO interview, you’ll hear from Harry …

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uql7qDpe59A?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Lori Lightfoot swept into the office of Chicago Mayor in a surprisingly decisive victory in 2019, the first African American gay mayor made history. In her four years as Mayor, she fac…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0NQiW5Vkp6c?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Comedian, actress, podcaster, author and many more things…all of which add up to a fun night of stand-up at the Venus Cabaret Theater! Her specials have been on HBO, Comedy Central and…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bv24-d8E_Ss?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Little Shop of Horrors is one of the more fun and popular musicals ever! The story of a man-eating plant is encased in a score of the most memorable musical score ever (by Howard Ashma…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMBv96b9U34?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Gatsby is a comedian born in Nigeria, moved to South Africa and then came to America where he settled in Chicago. Here, he has been producing, writing and starring in comedy throughout…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SlVT7V61NL4?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Inherit the Wind is a play written in 1955 about an actual trial which challenged teaching Darwinism in schools. Famously known as the “Scopes Monkey Trial,” (the defendant was John T.…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzWntSMwY6E?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] These days, everyone understands the prevalence and dangers of disinformation and misinformation….but how do these things differ and exactly what are they? More importantly, how is fal…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kBrzZhhoXQ?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] If you are a fan of HBO’s The Gilded Age, then you love its characters including John Adams, played by singer/actor Claybourne Elder. Or, you might be a fan of Clay’s from his many rol…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iO81bFYmQMk?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] In the first of this two-part podcast, Paul goes behind the curtain with the cast of Broadway’s long awaited sensation Harry Potter and the Cursed Child which is finally in Chicago to …

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1kPR_-OuoY?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Jamie Wolf is a hilarious comedian well known on the comedy circuit, especially in New York City where he can be seen at the Comedy Cellar and New York Comedy Club. Now he brings his u…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpjDKeops-s?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Paul goes Behind the Curtain with the cast of The Full Monty currently playing at the Paramount Theatre in Aurora through October 6th. This very fun musical was a hit on Broadway and t…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yu2TacZAv8?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Invictus Theatre of Chicago’s production of “Network” is stunning, immersive and unforgettable. Set in the 1970’s, one would think the message of the play has been lost over time or is…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N70fqgho6aE?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Raúl Esparza is an American stage and screen actor, recently starring as “Galileo Galilei” in Galileo in the world-premiere musical at Berkeley Repertory Theatre. Since making his Broa…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iu4EEgaP9lY?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Former Disney star (“Teen Beach Movie” and “Teen Beach 2”) also known for starring in the film ”King Cobra,” and known for his turn in “Hairspray – LIVE” among many other roles. Many h…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KNpWk4Yki3A?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Ken Block is an expert in voter data, a technology entrepreneur, and even a two-time candidate for Governor of Rhode Island. He was hired by the lead attorney for former US president D…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZSl5rYI471U?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Everyone would agree that Whitney Houston left us way too soon. Her voice was incredible and was called by Guiness Book of World records, “the most awarded female artist of all time.” …

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZx9yNxsAro?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Created by Jon Tai and Alex Gruhin and starring Tai, Road Signs is described as a magic show, but that moniker does not do the production justice. It’s magic married to theater, with a…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOSkCchtWh4?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Chicago is home to a new major attraction and experience that is an amazing way to experience this magnificent city! Flyover Chicago is an immersive, multi-sensory attraction which sho…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g0CB11444-k?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] In this new podcast, meet the stars of Back to the Future: the Musical! Classic characters Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox in the movie) is played on stage by Caden Brauch and Doc Brown (p…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHKdV29pv3Q?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Paul goes Behind the Curtain with playwright Stephen Dolginoff who wrote his musical “Thrill Me” in 1994 and presents the long history of the show’s development from then to today in h…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TuxstxH9IYs?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] If you are a fan of Dancing with the Stars, this show is for you! If you are NOT a fan of Dancing with the Stars, you are still in for an evening of fun and excitement! Savor After Hou…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLoh6sJZjuE?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] “The Prom” is a seven-time Tony nominated musical with great music and colorful characters, but the truth is that it has a message to share about tolerance and acceptance. The plot is …

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gw3og-3huYY?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Goodman does it again…..a stellar and stunning world premiere of a new musical that is hands down, going to Broadway! This musical is based on John Berendt’s iconic non-fiction book, a…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wu700TFRGYc?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] A charming play and concert rolled into one. Two talented wold-be concert pianists trade stories of their pushy parents, eccentric teachers, endless pressures of practice and all under…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUKIeXARCGM?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Chicago has produced some incredible talents, and ranking near the top are Alexandra Billings and Honey West. Known so well to Chicago audiences and legends in the LGBTQ+ community, th…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ZA575ZBbrQ?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] For the decades it has been in existence, the classic and magnificent musical Cameron Macintosh’s Les Misérables has been presented only on Broadway and authorized national tours. But …

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VnYQO-HN-0E?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] In this new podcast, Paul goes behind the curtain with Invictus Theatre Company’s founding artistic director, Charlse Askenaizer, with a look at the mission and plays of this great the…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-ZP8AbBcmU?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Laurie Metcalf is a legend from her work on TV (Roseanne, the Connors), and film (Lady Bird earning an Academy Award nomination), but her heart belongs where it all started: on Stage w…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ub2b4LablJI?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] For whatever reason, society harbors feelings of discrimination against certain communities, one of which is the Asian-American and Pacific Islander community. Token Theatre is a relat…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DSEcZCauFk?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] The two part podcast continues as actor/Playwright Laurence Luckinbill recounts his life and career (“Boys in the Band,” Star Trek V: the Final Frontier). Nearing 90 and still going st…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYnBdZ-6EH0?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] This two part podcast recounts the life and career of actor/Playwright Laurence Luckinbill (“Boys in the Band,” Star Trek V: the Final Frontier). Nearing 90 and still going strong, Lar…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nl0iOU_ob2M?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Lea DeLaria was the first openly gay comic on television in America but did you know she is also an accomplished Jazz performer who has performed worldwide? In this new podcast, you wi…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbvZLiQ7OSQ?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Many magicians come to our town and they are really amazing and fun. But David Kwong is different…he’s a master magician but also a New York Times crossword puzzle constructor and puzz…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5eJK5G86gyk?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] The exhilarating Broadway musical SIX (see my Review below) returns to Chicago at the Nederlander Theatre through July 14th. Joining in this new podcast conversation are Cassie Silva (…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bEwjUanWRbY?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] This new podcast brings you three of SNL’s brightest stars! Saturday Night Live is about to begin its 50th season on TV and still shows it has staying power! Now, three of its top star…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PancT7sKyCo?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] In this new Pride month podcast Paul chats with Karen Solt, now retired U.S. Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer who served in the Navy from 1984 to 2006. Those service dates mean she bega…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BB86O33J4O0?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] In this podcast, we enter the world of magic again! Dr. Ricardo Rosenkranz (the Physician Magician) owns The Rhapsody Theater and never ceases to amaze and entertain with the performer…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DK-sksElFAo?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] “Turret” is Levi Holloway’s stunning new play making its World Premiere with A Red Orchid Theatre, and playing at The Chopin Theatre thru June 22nd. This is a stunning, futuristic, sci…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jf35EBTBfao?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons created the soundtrack of a generation that still lives today. And Mercury theater Chicago makes the magic happen with its production of the Jersey B…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tefqvuj9uBY?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Chicago is home to close- up magic and the latest magician to “wow” audiences at the Chicago Magic Lounge every Wednesday night at 7pm (through June 26th is the amazing Ondrej Psenicka…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=szpVNWN6up8?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] It’s unlike any theatrical experience. Attending The Choir of Man is like going to the neighborhood pub (in Ireland or England, for sure) complete with beer, snacks, music and a really…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ZwUJmTXrSc?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Second City is truly a jewel in the crown of Chicago’s comedy scene attaining international recognition and respect. Many of the greats have come from Second City including Steve Carel…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gdGg-KQvW_4?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] It’s always exciting when a pre-Broadway show comes to Chicago to test the waters and learn from our sophisticated audiences what will make a show a smash hit on Broadway! “Death Becom…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJYGq97TMdY?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Who didn’t love the movie Mean Girls? It’s became a part of our cultural experience and history. Among the movie’s stars is Daniel Franzese who played the gay character, Damian, and wh…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fi_3oji0DlA?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] There are many popular TV series these days (certainly among the younger crowd) which can be labeled “coming of age,” with focus on character, family and the challenges of growing olde…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmxnt8bp20c?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Thank you for being a friend! Paul goes behind the curtain with two of the stars of “Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue,” a parody and uproarious stage show that is unique among Golden …

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J12EuVzqwPc?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Paul goes behind the curtain with an interview that will charm Marx Brothers fans in a big way. Joining in the conversation about the legendary comedic brothers and geniuses is Groucho…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=93rAYMyFx4c?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] It’s back! The incredibly popular jukebox musical, Mamma Mia brings it’s 25th Anniversary tour to Chicago’s Nederlander Theatre ONLY through May 19th! This new podcast presents a conve…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1SWZbmm33XE?version=3&rel=1&showsearch=0&showinfo=1&iv_load_policy=1&fs=1&hl=en-US&autohide=2&wmode=transparent&w=900&h=507] Who is not a huge fan of the music of the legendary Simon & Garfunkel? No one! This immersive concert-style show truly brings back the magic of Simon & Garfunkel in a way that will hav…