Arts & Entertainment
From ‘War of the Worlds’ to a Juneteenth Festival, Here Are 5 Weekend Event Picks
A scene from “That’s What Friends Are For,” now playing at the Black Ensemble Theater. (Courtesy of the Black Ensemble Theater)
Two weeks ago, my weather app said it would be sunny on every day that it rained and vice versa. So I look at this weekend’s forecast of “sunny and warm” with a bit of side-eye. Whether the weather ahead is pleasant or there’s a June monsoon brewing, here’s a starter list of arts and culture opportunities to get you out into the atmosphere.
“That’s What Friends Are For” – Black Ensemble Theater
Actors portray Gladys Knight, Dionne Warwick and Patti LaBelle as they reminisce about their journeys and the bonds that unite them. This musical celebration features songs such as “Walk On By” and “Midnight Train to Georgia” performed by a live band — a hallmark of the theater. Performers must have serious pipes to sing tunes made famous by these singular artists. Through July 27
“War of the Worlds” – Lifeline Theatre
Lifeline Theatre closes its 42nd season with one of H.G. Wells’ classic stories — but don’t expect the intensity of Steven Spielberg’s film version. This satirical take finds the original tale ripe for camp humor and physical theater. And now this story of Martian invasion is set in … suburban Chicago! Maybe extraterrestrials like to shop at outlet malls and avoid city taxes. Through July 13
Stir Friday Night – Steppenwolf Theatre
Stir Friday Night has been cooking for 30 years. Chicago’s long-running AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) comedy team presents the showcase “Rice to the Occasion” at Steppenwolf as part of the theater’s summer LookOut Series. Performances take place in the intimate 1700 Theater, and the menu calls for “sizzling, flavorful comedy. MSG included.” Friday and Saturday, June 20-21
A performance at Far South Community Development Corporation’s Juneteenth Festival in 2024. (Courtesy of Far South Community Development Corporation)
Juneteenth Festival – West Pullman
This free all-ages festival brings live music, family fun and food from local Black-owned restaurants to the Far South Side in celebration of Juneteenth. The event takes place in the lot of Maple Park Marketplace at 115th and Halsted streets, and it’s presented by the Far South Community Development Corporation, which will also provide small business and housing workshops. Saturday, June 21, 1-6 p.m.
“Winging It” – Newberry Library
Always reliable for small shows that pack a punch, the Newberry presents its latest exhibition, “Winging It: A Brief History of Humanity’s Relationship with Birds.” If that sounds cuckoo to you, you may not know the depth of the library’s vast collections. Artwork and ephemera offer perspectives on our feathered friends from scientists, sporting people and artists. Opens Friday, June 20
Marc Vitali is the JCS Fund of the DuPage Foundation Arts Correspondent.
