[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…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZSIScCh3Po?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 stars and director for the upcoming in-concert performances of the Sondheim/LaPine classic: “Sunday in the Park with George,” to be presented by P…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZrPI4eN2UsI?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] Purpose is a powerful new work by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, directed by the legendary Phylicia Rashad (who played Claire Huxtable on “The Cosby Show”). The story revolves around the poli…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlOj3Qei3eY?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 Magician and Card Cheating expert Harry Milas who discusses his amazing show playing through May 19th at Steppenwolf’s Merle Reskin Garage Space. Mila…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63w7er8DhyQ?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] Sondheim is the best and these days Tribute Reviews are the thing to do especially since the Sondheim estate has allowed theater companies to craft individualized reviews (unlike the P…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lUwIRj67KNo?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 owner of the legendary business, Architectural Artifacts, Stuart Grannen. Located in Chicago for 37 years, Stuart chose to leave our cold winters …

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PrAiWlX2IkM?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 visits with actor/director/playwright Ronnie Marmo who became a fixture in Chicago with the play, “I’m Not a Comedian, I’m Lenny Bruce.” He returns to the cit…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zs8ly0biJrA?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 chats with the cast and director of The Band’s Visit about the power of this musical now playing through March 24th. Joining in the conversation is Director Z…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMbexznPbSI?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 the cast and director of “Billy Elliott” the amazing musical currently playing at Paramount Theatre in Aurora through March 24th.…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UMO8Ye84fOE?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 Jai Rodriquez, best known as the Culture Guy (one of the Fab Five) from the original “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy” on Bravo. T…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ESDkETzxDw?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 the star of Pretty Woman the Musical, Chase Wolfe (who plays Edward Lewis). The classic Julia Roberts/Richard Gere film was broug…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1LRDmPoJCWo?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 chats with the cast of Lin Manuel Miranda’s wonderful and heartwarming show, “In the Heights” playing at the Marriott Lincolnshire through March 17th. Joining…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e03kG5fRM5w?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 for a very special “exit” interview with Tom Skilling, the undeniable G.O.A.T (greatest of all time) among meteorologists worldwide! Chicago has never seen…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dY0oENdqhx0?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 for an informal and informational chat with one of Chicago’s and the country’s most famous chefs: Art Smith. How did Chef Art hit the …

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q31dtVJGfOs?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 Gail Papp, widow and partner of the legendary Joseph Papp, Founder of The Public Theatre. Gail joined Joseph Papp’s New York Shakespeare Festival in 1…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ph67NVolllo?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 actress Dot-Marie Jones (yep, Coach Beaste in Glee) to discuss the play, “Highway Patrol” playing now at the Goodman Theatre through Feb 18th. It’s th…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=seX0MvcsPew?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] Theater lovers looking for a fantastic time will NOT want to miss “Anything Goes” with a phenomenal Porchlight Music Theatre cast and music by the legendary Cole Porter. Joining in the…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwSUeypZUc8?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 award winning comedian/actor/writer Alex Edelman who brings his acclaimed solo show “Just for Us” to Steppenwolf Theatre for two weeks only: February …

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Sc4oF-JnWY?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 co-star of the HBO hit series: ‘Somebody, Somewhere.” Jeff also created the iconic character/murderer Mr. Whitely on American Horror Story, and as…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YftagWECq9w?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 author of “Amazing Chicago: The City of Big Shoulders, Murder and Mayhem,” written by David Anthony Witter. The book uncovers the fascinating and …

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlXhEtCve6w?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 Managing Artistic Director of the Fine Arts Building and Studebaker Theater, Jacob Harvey. The renovation of the structure for its recent 125th An…

Musician and one of the many talented performers in the hit show ‘STOMP’ Declan Hayden joins Paul Lisnek, in for Lisa Dent, to talk all things STOMP. Listen in while Hayden shares how they bring music to everyday objects and how STOMP bring dance, music and theatrical performance together in one electrifying rhythm. https://serve.castfire.com/audio…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PuwgDd3Zs7w?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 two of the stars of the longtime Chicago mainstay hit: “Teatro Zinzanni: Love, Chaos, and Dinner” now playing on the 14th Floor of the Cambria Hotel i…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpKJiMKwP50?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 Jared Howelton who plays the incredibly challenging roles of Marquis de LaFayette AND Thomas Jefferson in the now classic and legendary show Hamilton.…

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BwXrr1yKGjI?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 master magician Jamie Allan, who brings his world renowned show “Amaze” to the Rhapsody Theater through January 7th. This is more than a magic show; i…