The culture wars are heating up again, one duel at a time.
Stories by marc vitali
Hedy Weiss Reviews: ‘End of the Rainbow,’ ‘King Charles III,’ More
Judy Garland was one of the most distinctive American entertainers of the 20th Century. A new play looks at the extreme highs and lows of a legendary life in showbiz that ended at age 47. Hedy Weiss reviews that show, plus four other productions in and around Chicago.
New Biography Sheds Light on Private Life of Al Capone
The continuing fascination with gangster Al Capone. We speak to the author of a new book that looks at the private life of the notorious criminal.
Documentary Explores Life of Legendary Writer Maya Angelou
The moving and powerful life of Maya Angelou: A new film explores the many facets of the acclaimed poet and writer.
Chicago Shop Plays Key Role in Keeping World’s Ensembles in Tune
Chicago Tonight visits a little shop in Chicago for a look at how to rejuvenate pitched percussion instruments – and to get a history lesson in concert tuning.
Glenn DuBose, PBS Producer, Champion of the Arts, Dies
Glenn DuBose, the ultimate behind-the-scenes producer of arts programming on PBS, died this week in Miami. He shaped countless fine national and local programs.
‘Tattoo’ Exhibit Aims to Create a Lasting Impression
The Field Museum has a new look at tattooing – an age-old tradition that is as popular now as it was millennia ago.
Theatrical ‘Magic’ in the Air at 2 Distinctive Chicago Shows
Illusions of grandeur take center stage at two Chicago shows and may make you question reality. See what tricks two local theaters have up their sleeves.
Peter Kim on Leaving ‘Dream Job’ at Second City
Comedian Peter Kim talks about the state of stand-up comedy, and why he recently left a hit show at The Second City.
Art Institute Takes Fresh Look at Pioneering Artist, Teacher
Bold paintings from the 1920s, plus photographs and industrial design: A new show looks at an international artist who made a big impression in Chicago.
Wild Art at MCA Chicago: Immerse Yourself in Animal Imagery
Artist Diana Thater on Friday unveiled immersive views of the natural world in a new show at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago.
New Sculpture by Yoko Ono Seeks to ‘Give Peace a Chance’
Artist and activist Yoko Ono visits Chicago and provides Jackson Park with a new public sculpture that’s being called “a landmark for peace.”
Vintage Sculpture ‘Concrete Traffic’ Goes for a Joyride
A concrete Cadillac goes for a spin. We look at the restoration of this unusual work of art–and how it cemented its reputation.
Eighth Blackbird Takes Flight at Arts Club of Chicago
The Grammy Award-winning ensemble Eighth Blackbird performs this weekend at the Arts Club of Chicago. We hear from them in conversation and performance.
Actor Geraldine Chaplin Reflects on Lengthy Film Career
The actor talks about making the classic film “Doctor Zhivago,” the Chicago International Film Festival, and her famous father, Charlie Chaplin.
New Architecture Book Looks at ‘Building Chicago’
Masterworks of Chicago architecture from the early days through the 21st century: A new book from a longtime curator at the Art Institute looks at “Building Chicago.”
Innovation, Sustainability Key to Future of Farming in Illinois
Tomatoes and salad greens that are served in upscale Chicago restaurants are grown in Ogle County, Illinois. We visit the source.
Mark Kelly on the Future, and Importance, of Chicago’s Cultural Mission
Free events like the Chicago Blues Festival are evolving. We speak with Chicago’s new commissioner of cultural affairs and special events about the future of city celebrations.
Vintage Sculpture ‘Concrete Traffic’ Goes for a Joyride
A concrete Cadillac goes for a spin. We look at the restoration of this unusual work of art–and how it cemented its reputation.
What’s Ahead for Chicago’s DuSable Museum of African American History
With the recent opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, we get an update on Chicago's museum of African American history.
World Premiere Play ‘Man in the Ring’ Much More than a Boxing Story
The story behind a new stage adaptation of an infamous–and fatal–boxing match that was televised in the 1960s.
Cooking with Chef Rick Bayless
Chef Rick Bayless joins us with recipes for pork tacos and a tequila-based cocktail of his own invention.
Tim Schneider on Future of GOP, Trump’s Debate Performance
The head of the Illinois Republican Party looks ahead to the future of his party and evaluates Donald Trump's performance in Monday’s presidential debate.
‘Hamilton’ Creator Lin-Manuel Miranda: Chicago is Best Theater Town
“Hamilton” creator Lin-Manuel Miranda talks about Chicago, “Sesame Street” and his theatrical blockbuster.
Hedy Weiss Reviews: ‘In the Heights,’ ‘Wonderful Town,’ More
“In the Heights” hits the stage in a homegrown Chicago production. Hedy Weiss reviews the first show by the creator of “Hamilton,” plus musicals at the Goodman Theatre and three suburban theaters.
Saffron Caravan Uses Music to Build Bridges Between Cultures
A world music group that uses the arts as a vehicle for peace-building. We have a performance by the ensemble Saffron Caravan.
