From ‘Phantom’ to Black Voices in Cabaret, Here Are 5 Musical Performances to Catch This Weekend

Marc Vitali | December 4, 2024, 2:16 pm

A performance of “The Four Phantoms in Concert.” (Dave Burke)

This weekend brings an ensemble of enticing musical choices, and it’s not just holiday songs and show tunes. OK, much of it is, but the hardest part will be deciding what to see — and hear.

“The Four Phantoms in Concert” – McAninch Arts Center, Glen Ellyn

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When it says “As seen on PBS” you know it meets a certain standard. These four veteran singers have cumulatively played the lead in “The Phantom of the Opera” 6,000 times. Joining them in this fete of musical theater is Kaley Ann Voorhees, who performed the role of Christine on Broadway. Saturday, Dec. 7

“Brian d’Arcy James” – Steppenwolf’s Downstairs Theater

James is a Northwestern alum and a Broadway vet — he originated the role of King George in “Hamilton” and has earned five Tony nominations. Here he sings from the musical theater canon, plus a mix of pop standards. Save money on a plane ticket to New York and see him in Chicago. Two shows on Saturday, Dec. 7

“Holidays a capella” – Various locations

Chicago’s ensemble of 10 unaccompanied singers brings vocal chops to a holiday concert with four shows at four local venues. And these voices deliver the goods. The show starts with a retelling of Dylan Thomas’ “A Child’s Christmas in Wales” by Jeff Award-winning actor Greg Vinkler. Dec. 6-14

“Reimagining Cabaret: Jazz, Rhythm and Blues” – Epiphany Center for the Arts

A dozen strong vocalists — including Lynne Jordan and Randolph Johnson — take the stage for a showcase from Black Voices in Cabaret. And if you haven’t yet been to the Epiphany Center — a onetime church built in 1885 — you have one more reason to go. Saturday, Dec. 7

“Bohème and Beyond: The Legacy of Puccini” – DePaul University

This unusual concert celebrates the legacy of Giacomo Puccini, composer of “Tosca,” “Madama Butterfly” and “La bohème.” Arias from Puccini operas will be performed alongside music by composers influenced by the great Italian composer, including Samuel Barber and Stephen Sondheim. Saturday, Dec. 7