Stories by Alexandra Silets

Meet the eight Democrats running for Illinois attorney general Monday during a special hourlong episode of “Chicago Tonight.” Watch the full video.

A review of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at the Auditorium Theatre, and in dance news: a $1 million gift for the Joffrey Ballet.

Shomari Legghette, 44, pleaded not guilty to charges including first-degree murder on Monday in front of more than a dozen Chicago police officers.

Amid increasing speculation over a possible run for president in 2020, the former vice president delivered a speech Friday at Northwestern University. See photos from the event.

The Chicago River is cleaner today than it has been in generations, but “cleaner” is a relative term. One local advocacy group wants the city to aim for a trash-free river.

More criminal charges could be on the way for the four-time felon accused in the shooting death of Chicago Police Department Cmdr. Paul Bauer.

Accusations and endorsements fly as the primary election nears. House Speaker Michael Madigan warns Democrats against harassment – again. The city sues opioid distributors. And Loyola preps for the Big Dance.

Paris Schutz and guests discuss the ongoing debate over House Speaker Michael Madigan’s handling of allegations of sexual harassment in his political offices.

Despite a lush score, excellent voices and several memorable characterizations, the story often loses its focus in a new production of “Faust” at Lyric Opera of Chicago.

Watch the March 8, 2018 full episode of "Chicago Tonight."

Bird experts from around the world are flocking to a Chicago Audubon Society event in Chicago this weekend. We speak with conservationist George Archibald, who delivers the keynote speech at event.

There’s no shortage of candidates to replace Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan. But while Democrats have eight candidates to choose from, on the Republican side there are just two.

Want to become a certified beekeeper? A new six-course program covers the history and economics of beekeeping, taxonomy of insects, botany, pollination and what to expect during your first year.

Lyric Opera of Chicago marks the 100th birthday of Leonard Bernstein with a special concert this weekend featuring among others, the Broadway star, Tony Award nominee and Evanston native who joins us.

In 2015, Chicago Police Officer Jason Van Dyke pleaded not guilty in the fatal shooting of Laquan McDonald. But a start date for the trial is likely still months away.

A year after launching their business making jeans in a Garfield Park factory, things are starting to look a little different at Dearborn Denim. We go for a look.

Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair stops in Chicago and speaks with us about Brexit, President Donald Trump and more. Watch our full interview.

Gov. Bruce Rauner says he’s been clear about his stance on guns. But he won’t say whether he’ll sign recently passed legislation that would require Illinois gun dealers to be licensed by the state.

Watch the March 7, 2018 full episode of "Chicago Tonight."

How local scientists played a key role in the arrest of three well-known elephant poachers in the Republic of Congo. 

A candidate forum ahead of the March 20 primary features the incumbent and her challenger, a former Chicago alderman.

Voters this month will be tasked with electing Cook County Circuit Court judges. To help navigate the options, two Chicago bar associations screened and ranked each candidate. Here are their recommendations.

Chicago Public Schools CEO Janice Jackson says principals won’t have to worry about early school year cuts this fall, and that CPS will give them “more time, predictability, and support during the budget process.”

An early St. Patrick’s Day parade, thousands of orchids and a new take on Homer’s “Odyssey” usher in the weekend. Here are 10 things to do in and around Chicago.

A benefit on March 18 on Chicago’s Near North Side to will raise funds for the March 24 event, which will coincide with marches across the country calling for gun reform in the U.S.

Watch the March 6, 2018 full episode of "Chicago Tonight."