"Black Swan" May Ruffle Some Balletomanes’ Feathers By Lucia Mauro

Ed. note: This is a guest post by arts writer and dance critic Lucia Mauro.

The great era of Imperial Russian ballet, crowned by Marius Petipa’s and Lev Ivanov’s transcendent Swan Lake in 1895, is one I can fervently analyze, discuss and simply revel in. French choreographer Petipa almost singlehandedly defined the virtuosic full-length narrative ballet, most notably its structure and grand pas deux (including Odile’s frenzy-generating 32 fouettes). The familiar story, though fantastical, has long provided fodder for intense psychosexual dissection, often with a feminist bent. Understandable - considering the unsettling premise of an evil sorcerer, Von Rothbart, who transforms maidens into swans and holds them captive.

Do you check in? If so, get a free beverage on us!

Since last year, we've been watching the trends in social media closely and are very excited about the buildup of interest in location-based social networks. Since starting our Foursquare account almost a year ago, we've now expanded to Gowalla, SCVNGR and Facebook Places. Almost daily, we've been glued to our computers watching the steady increase in check ins to more than 1,850 on Foursquare alone!

As a special thank you, I'm pleased to offer ticket buyers who check in before any performance of The Joffrey Ballet's Nutcracker a FREE small hot chocolate or coffee before the show! We're excited to have you at our theatre for what has become a holiday tradition for many and are happy to give you a little something as a token of our appreciation.

Thanks again and don't forget to check in!

-Joe

Check in on one of these networks to get a special reward:

Joe Hallissey is a member of the Auditorium Theatre marketing team and the Digital Marketing Associate.

Disclaimer: Limit one redemption per customer. Offer valid before performances only and subject to availability.  We reserve the right to end this promotion at any time.

Student Rush: $15 Tickets for The Joffrey Ballet's Nutcracker

One of our favorite holiday traditions opens on December 10 - The Joffrey Ballet's Nutcracker. College students can experience this sugar plum delight by taking advantage of $15 Student Rush tickets.

Student Rush tickets are available by going to the Auditorium Box Office (50 E. Congress Pkwy), one hour before show time. There's a limit of two tickets per valid college ID; tickets and their locations are based on availability.

Visit the Joffrey Ballet's website for more information and a preview video of this Chicago holiday tradition!

 
 

Performance schedule:

Friday, December 10 at 7 pm	Saturday, December 11 at 2 & 7 pm
Sunday, December 12 at 2 pm	Thursday, December 16 at 7 pm
Friday, December 17 at 7 pm	Saturday, December 18 at 2 & 7 pm
Sunday, December 19 at 2 & 7 pm	Tuesday, December 21 at 2 & 7 pm
Wednesday, December 22 at 2 & 7 pm	Thursday, December 23 at 2 & 7pm
Friday, December 24 at 2 pm	Sunday, December 26 at 2 pm

You can also be among the first to know when Student Rush tickets become available for other shows by signing up for e-mail Student Rush Alerts. Contact Nicole Wetzell at nwetzell@auditoriumtheatre.org or 312.922.2110 x 300.

Mr. Batterson goes to Argentina: Donor Trip 2010

Last month our fearless leader, Executive Director Brett Batterson along with board members and donors took a scouting trip to Argentina to research possible artists for future Auditorium Theatre seasons. We'll post more details about the trip soon but for now, Brett has passed on photos of the trip to share.

For descriptions of each photo and more, please visit our Flickr page.

House Manager Appreciation Week interview with CJ Dillon

When many theatre patrons visit our venue, most only think of the house manager as a glorified usher or a security guard hell bent on making sure you don't bring your beverage into the house. As one of the most unfairly under-appreciated but much-needed members of a theatre's staff, Backstagejobs.com had the excellent idea to call this week House Manager Appreciation Week. To recognize our Director of Operations and House Manager CJ Dillon, I sat down with him for a short interview about his experiences.

Challenge: getting to our orchesta pit vs. Spinal Tap's route to the stage

We just found this great video by Youtube user, ngibson5 showing the route to get to our orchestra pit (spoiler: lots of yellow doors).

Here's a little Friday distraction for you: which is more challenging, getting to our orchestra pit or Spinal Tap's route to get to the stage for their epic concert? Personally, I'm happy to see how clean our hallways are!

Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

The Joffrey Ballet's The Nutcracker returns Dec. 10 through Dec. 26!

It's that time of year again when Chicago really turns into the Windy City, commuters clutch their gingerbread lattes and tourists and locals alike flock to the Loop for their holiday shopping.

As Chicago's annual winter tradition, the Joffrey Ballet's The Nutcracker returns to the Auditorium Theatre for an exciting run of performances from Friday, December 10 through Sunday, December 26. In a show that's sure to dazzle everyone from Grandma Jean to Baby Billy, The Nutcracker brings a smile to all and is a great way to celebrate the holiday season with the entire family.

Not convinced? See a sneak peek in this video by the Joffrey Ballet!

The best seats are selling fast, get yours today on Ticketmaster.com/auditorium!

Photo Recap: "A Night in Havana" 2010 Gala

All photos by Robert Carl. See the photo set on our Flickr page for captions. Gala sponsored by the Pasquinelli Family Foundation.

Save the date: Too Hot Black Friday Sale!

Sometime between the inevitable turkey coma and fight to get out of the mall parking lot, take a minute to visit our Ticketmaster page this Friday, November 26th for our Black Friday Sale featuring...

Too Hot to Handel:
the jazz gospel messiah

$10 off tickets in price levels 2 & 3 

Use code SALE when purchasing

This special offer is also available at our box office, by phone (handy if you want to get away from the in-laws) by calling toll-free: 800.982.ARTS (2787) and at all Ticketmaster outlets.

Don't miss out on the The Auditorium's annual musical celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the show the Chicago Tribune calls: "Hotter than hot!"

Not convinced, visit the Too Hot page on our website for more info and an improv video from last year's performance!

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*Offer valid on price level 2 & 3 only. May not be combined with other offers or promotions. Not available on previously purchased tickets. Subject to availability; restrictions apply. Use code SALE to redeem. Offer expires at 3pm on 12/03/2010.

Building our future...one brick at a time

The Auditorium Theatre is currently immersed in one of the most ambitious and comprehensive restoration efforts ever seen in the building’s long and storied history. This massive undertaking comprises a variety of renovation initiatives including:

• Adding new and improved lighting throughout the building
• Replacing nearly 4,000 seats that comprise the Auditorium’s magnificent theatre
• Building a rehearsal space
• Re-plastering, painting and restoring the interior of the lobby to its original splendor

The extensive costs associated with these improvements create some unique challenges. Fortunately, a very dear friend to the Auditorium recently presented our theatre and our patrons with a special opportunity. His generosity is so profound that he’s willing to give $100,000 to set up a unique matching gift to assist with the operating costs and help preserve our theatre for future generations.

In other words, for every dollar given to the Auditorium Theatre as part of this challenge, one dollar will be matched from the $100,000 gift, thereby doubling the value of every donation we receive. This is truly an incredible gesture, one for which everyone at the Auditorium Theatre is immensely grateful.

If you would like to give to help support the Auditorium Theatre’s ongoing restoration and operating expenses, please contact Amanda Martinez at (312) 922-2110, ext. 368 or set up an account and give online. And please remember, any gift you can spare will double in value—and will make twice the impact on our future, and our legacy.

Guest post by Kevin Fitzpatrick, Director of Development.

Inside ATRU: Eve's top 5 things you can do as an intern here that you can't do anywhere else

Ewa Czerniawska is studying Events Management and PR at the London Metropolitan University, spending this semester on an exchange program at Roosevelt University in Chicago. She is also a production intern at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University.

5 things you are allowed to do as an intern at the Auditorium Theatre, that you wouldn't be able to do anywhere else.

1. Jump in the middle of Michigan Avenue at noon and stop the traffic!

Well, it wasn't always at noon, but I did do it a couple of times. Our alley goes straight into Michigan Avenue so every time we have a load in or out, we have trucks coming in and out of the alley. There's no way to make it happen but to stop traffic for a couple of minutes.

2. Put the house curtains on fire!

Once in a while we have to do fireproofing tests on our curtains. So we cut little pieces of them (from the inside, so you can't see it) and we "try to put them on fire," by that I mean that someone holds a match underneath the curtain for 12 seconds and then fire has to extinguish in the next 2 seconds. If it does, it means the curtains are flame-resistant.

3. Telling executives what to do!

Not really… but sometimes they want to give a speech before the show, so by telling them what to do, I mean giving them stage cues.

4. Witness a miracle.

A wardrobe lady didn't make it to the show one day; so we set up a quick changing room at the back of the stage with 500 costumes! It was truly unbelievable.

5. Hang out in the “locked” parts of the building.

You get to climb up above the arches to see how and where they change all the light bulbs. You also get to go to the basement where the air-conditioning system is located. There is a small room where it is really windy and you get the feeling like you are in the movies and something is about to suck you in. But once you learn how it all works you realize that it's perfectly safe.

As interesting as it may sound these things are not nearly as important as the things you learn. As an intern you get to see and be a part of all the day-by-day operations of the theatre. The internship allows you to understand how all the departments work together to deliver a show.  And with all the help for the staff, by the end of the internship, I guarantee you will be ready for your first job in the theatre.

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Our internship program offers students the opportunity for hands-on learning alongside professionals working in the performing arts industry.

Live on our stage: the Grateful Dead in 1971

On August 24, 1971, the Grateful Dead played a live show on our stage to lackluster reviews. From the liner notes:

"When they're hot, they're incendiary. When they're not, they're like cold spaghetti. That's the price we pay for the kind of openly emotional music they make." - Jack Hafferkamp, Chicago Daily News

Even with the unfortunate review, we are proud to have hosted the iconic band. This is the start of a future series of posts noting live recordings taped in our theatre. This recording, part of a CD including the Grateful Dead playing in San Diego, California is available on Amazon.com where you can hear samples. Eventually, we'll be highlighting these live recordings in a collection in our theatre.

Joe Hallissey is the Digital Marketing Associate at the Auditorium Theatre.

Children explore Too Hot to Handel through school outreach programs

Picture this: a desk piled high with children’s books on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a teaching guide on Too Hot to Handel scribbled with updates and edits for this year, poetry contest fliers and the first entries, residency workshop information and school schedules, master class outlines and one very big smile – yes, it’s that time of the year—Too Hot to Handel is only a few short months away, and I couldn’t be more excited. As the Auditorium’s Senior Director of Education and self proclaimed “Too Hot groupie,” it’s finally time to kick some of our most thrilling educational program initiatives into high gear.

Too Hot is a wonderfully rich piece that truly embodies Dr. King’s vision of the Beloved Community. It’s the kind of show that has the power to reach a broad range of listeners and invite them to actively experience its message, to stand up, to clap, to get involved and respond. Its message of peace and love helps us create a dialogue together and share in the building of community. And who better to engage in this dialogue than Chicago Public School students? Our second annual Poetry Contest invites CPS students in grades 3-12 to write a poem celebrating Dr. King’s dream of the Beloved Community. We are curious to find out what MLK’s message and vision of community means to modern youth. The deadline for submissions is December 3, 2010!

The Auditorium is also thrilled to continue and deepen the Too Hot Residency Program for CPS students in grades 3-8. Working under the guidance of Too Hot Teaching Artist Christina Bourné, students will explore one of Dr. King’s speeches and create an original musical composition as a response. This top-notch program built a reputation for excellence last year and quickly booked again this year. CPS high school music students will also benefit from our educational initiatives with our Master Class Series with the artists of Too Hot to Handel.

Too Hot to Handel will surely not disappoint, leaving all audiences with the sense that they are part of something very, very important. You’ll also see me, the “Too Hot groupie”, singing and swaying in the alto section as part of the 150-person Too Hot Community Choir. The Auditorium is going to be jazzing up the Messiah, and we want you to be there!

For more information on our education programs, please contact education@auditoriumtheatre.org.

Nicole Losurdo is the Senior Director of Education.

Too Hot to Handel education programs are made possible through the generous support of JP Morgan Chase.

Inside ATRU: Casey Crail on his fall internship experience

As the fall 2010 operations intern, it has been quite an experience working at the Auditorium Theatre. Getting the chance to work at such an important and historic theatre has been a dream come true. I have always loved theatre and been interested in architecture—especially Chicago architecture. The Auditorium has offered me the chance to combine my two passions into a semester long program that will help me greatly as I move forward pursuing a career in performing arts management.

The first time I stepped out onto the Auditorium’s stage I looked out at the nearly 4,000 seats, from the orchestra level all the way up to the gallery six stories above the stage. I knew that I was finally where I wanted to be. Many people spend years studying something and then, when getting out into the real world, realize they have no desire to practice what they’ve studied. I’ve been studying performing arts management at Columbia College for the past three and a half years. It was an incredibly validating feeling to finally be able to put the skills I’ve learned in the classroom to use in a practical setting here at the Auditorium (and realize that I really do love working at a theatre).

Being the operations intern, I’m usually over in my little cubby (at least I don’t have to sit in the hole*) over at the theatre off  aisle 1—which is across the street and a few blocks away from the administrative offices where most of the staff is located. I was worried at first that I wouldn’t get to interact much with the rest of the theatre staff. Luckily, I have worked on many projects here that have allowed me to collaborate with different departments and gain a better understanding of how all the areas work together. I have learned so much from working with all of the incredibly talented individuals who make up the Auditorium Theatre.

From being teased mercilessly as the “newbie” by the patron services coordinator to attending a Rotary Club luncheon with the executive director, my time at the Auditorium has been incredibly fun, fulfilling, and above all eye opening. It has been a great experience and environment that I will be sad to leave at the end of the semester.

* The hole is the back section of the Patron Services Office. It was affectionately named “the hole” by the Auditorium staff for its low-ceiling, dark, claustrophobic feel. Pretty awesome of the Auditorium staff to not make the interns sit back there.

Casey Crail is a senior at Columbia College where he is studying Performing Arts Management and is the fall Operations Intern.

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Our internship program offers students the opportunity for hands-on learning alongside professionals working in the performing arts industry.

Discover our hidden world: take the behind-the-scenes tour on November 20

On Saturday, November 20, 2010, the theatre will be offering a special Behind the Scenes Historic Tour.

Join us for an in-depth guided tour of the Auditorium, including our lobby spaces, theatre and the backstage areas  -- spaces that have never been seen by the general public. Learn about the building's storied past and see the dressing rooms, green room and a preserved piece of 1889 engineering.

 
Don't miss this special opportunity -- Behind the Scenes Historic Tours are available on Saturday, November 20 at 10am and 12 noon only. Tour tickets are $20 per person and can be purchased beginning 30 minutes prior to the tour at the Auditorium Theatre Box Office and in advance at Ticketmaster.com.

"The Architecture of Harry Weese" - A new book about the man who led the Auditorium Theatre's restoration

After World War II, there was a lull in our history and the Auditorium Theatre fell into disrepair. In the 1960's Harry Weese led the restoration of the theatre and restored it to its grand state.

Celebrating Harry Weese, and his legacy, author Roger Bruegmann and contributor Kathleen Murphy Skolnik have written a new book, "The Architecture of Harry Weese" which includes a section on the restoration of the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University.

The author is hosting a free event to celebrate the release, together with the release of author and Too Hot to Handel choir member, Samantha Hoffman's book "Mr. Right-Enough," on Saturday, November 6 at Mart Anthony's Restaurant, 1200 W. Hubbard St., Chicago, IL from 3-6pm. Wine and appetizers will be served.

 Ed: Changed Sarah Hoffman to Samantha Hoffman.

This January, why freeze…when you can burn?

On January 15 &16, 2011, the Auditorium Theatre’s kinetic, self-produced musical event, Too Hot to Handel: The Jazz-Gospel Messiah, will entertain thousands of audience members with a captivating tribute to the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This celebration of the Dr. King holiday is a cornerstone of the Auditorium’s season—and a truly diverse and inclusive musical experience.

You can help make this production a success by joining Friends of Too Hot to Handel, a group of esteemed individuals committed to the future of this transcendent cultural event. These gracious friends are dedicated to supporting and preserving Too Hot to Handel so that more patrons can continue to enjoy the sublime talent, dazzling music and infectious spirit of this one-of-a-kind production each year. Membership in Friends of Too Hot to Handel entitles you to a variety of benefits including: prime seats, a dinner with the Too Hot stars, recognition in the Auditorium Theatre playbill and a backstage champagne toast.

But more importantly, by joining Friends of Too Hot to Handel, you are helping sustain a production that is born from the Auditorium’s own blood, toil and sweat. All of us invest so much time and work into this production because the experience is one that must be shared with the people of this great city—not just right now, but for years to come. We hope you will consider joining today!

For additional information, please contact Amanda Martinez at (312) 922-2110, ext. 368.

Guest post by Kevin Fitzpatrick, Director of Development. 

Photo of Rodrick Dixon by Dan Rest.

Lizt Alfonso Dance Cuba spices up the WGN Midday News

 
After arriving in Chicago early this morning, a few of the dancers were able to stop by the WGN studios for a quick preview of tonight and tomorrow's performances.

Arts Alliance Illinois gets governor and senate candidate views on the arts

As the November midterm elections are right around the corner, both arts organizations and arts patrons should understand where the candidates stand on the cultural activities we all enjoy. Arts Alliance Illinois has reached out to the hopefuls for governor and senate to get their views on arts and art education. View all the interviews on Vimeo.

Student Rush: tickets only $15 for Lizt Alfonso Dance Cuba

Unforced Sensuality, Endless Energy, Technical Precision.

Lizt Alfonso Dance Cuba—Delivering the Perfect Date. 

 $15 Tickets to Lizt Alfonso Dance Cuba

October 28 at 7:30 pm

October 29 at 8:00 pm

Video Preview

More Details

GET TICKETS:   

At the box office, located at 50 E. Congress Pkwy. 

In-Person only.  

One hour before show time.

Limit two tickets per valid college ID. 

Locations based on availability. Subject to change. Restrictions apply.

Note: Student Rush are tickets sold at the discretion of the presenter. Policies may differ from show to show. Tickets and locations are subject to availability.

Inside ATRU: Say hello to our new interns

Auditorium Theatre Interns. From left to right: Ewa, Brandon and Casey.

It's a new season and we have a great group of interns helping us out this Fall. Look for some blog posts written by them in the future and if you see them around the theatre, please say hello!

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Our internship program offers students the opportunity for hands-on learning alongside professionals working in the performing arts industry.

Staff News: Two Staff Members Complete Courses at the Center for Nonprofit Management

On behalf of Brett Batterson and the staff here at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, I'm pleased to congratulate Director of Development Kevin Fitzpatrick and Donor Relations Manager Amanda Martinez on their successful completion of courses at the Kellogg School of Management's Center for Nonprofit Management!

As part of our commitment to education both in the community and internally amongst our staff, we sent Kevin and Amanda "back to school" to increase their understanding of current non-profit management trends and techniques. Over four weeks of classes, Kevin and Amanda took courses in fundraising, marketing, fundraising in tough economic times, and nonprofit finance.

"It was helpful t to discuss the current challenges within the nonprofit industry with our instructors and peers as well as bounce ideas off them. Also, hearing success stories from other organizations and from the Kellogg professors gave Kevin and me some great techniques we can start using right away," said Amanda.

Once again, congratulations to both Kevin and Amanda and we look forward to seeing them put what they've learned to use!

Logo credit:  Center for Nonprofit Management

Executive Director Brett Batterson to Present Award at Annual NEA Opera Honors Awards Ceremony

Our own Executive Director, Brett Batterson will be presenting an award at the Annual National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Opera Honors Awards Ceremony on Friday, October 22 at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C.

"I'm flattered that the NEA asked me to present an award at this ceremony recognizing some of our nation's greatest contributors to opera," said Batterson. This year's honorees include: soprano Martina Arroyo, general director David DiChiera, composer Philip Glass and music director Eve Queler.

Free tickets for the NEA Opera Honors awards ceremony and concert are available to the general public and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Due to unprecedented demand, reserved tickets are no longer available. Patrons who would like to reserve stand-by passes may sign up in advance. Individuals who reserve stand-by passes will be contacted as additional reserved seating becomes available. Stand-by passes may be secured online at www.dc-opera.org, by phone at 202.295.2400 or toll free at 800.US.OPERA, or at Washington National Opera’s Box Office: 2600 Virginia Avenue NW, Suite 301, Washington, D.C.


More information available in the NEA press release.

Inside ATRU: Sales and Marketing Rock Stars [photo]

 You're looking at one half of our rockstar sales and marketing team.

From front to back: Nicole, Mary and Meaghan.

Student Rush: $30 Tickets to The Merchants of Bollywood

Friday, October 1 at 8pm Only

A nonstop whirl of color and music, The Merchants of Bollywood is a dance spectacular featuring a cast of 50, over 500 lavish costumes, 3,000 pieces of jewelry, and the original music and choreography reflecting the grandeur of the biggest Bollywood movies.

"Merchants of Bollywood has dazzle, shimmer and sparkle...it's slick and sexy."
- The London Metro

A sensation in Europe and Australia, this runaway hit is based on the true story of a famed family of choreographers who have dominated the Indian film industry for decades. A classic tale of the clash between generations ensues when a daughter breaks free of familiy tradition to create her own voice; finding love, heartbreak, and independence along the way. More Merchants of Bollywood information.

ORDER TICKETS
$30 Student Rush tickets available beginning Wednesday, September 29 at noon.

Available for purchase at the Auditorium Theatre Box Office, 50 E. Congress Pkwy.
Limit two tickets per valid college ID.

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Student Rush is last minute tickets sold at the discretion of the presenter. Policies may vary. Tickets and locations are subject to availability; restrictions apply.

$25 Student Rush tickets to Fuerza Bruta are available!

DON'T MISS THE GREATEST SHOW YOU'LL EVER SEE FOR $25!
FUERZA BRUTA: LOOK UP

FINAL WEEKS

Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30 pm
Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 and 10:00 pm
Sundays at 3:00 and 6:30 pm

ABOUT FUERZA BRUTA: LOOK UP

FUERZA BRUTA: LOOK UP is a non-stop collision of dynamic music, visceral emotion, and kinetic aerial imagery. Featuring mind-blowing visual effects that must be seen to be believed, FUERZA BRUTA: LOOK UP is a theatrical experience that floods the senses. Experience a 360° heart-pounding theatrical event, filled with flying dancers, pumping beats, engaging dream sequences and a multidimensional swimming pool above the heads of an audience that is standing on stage in the middle of the action.

GET STUDENT RUSH TICKETS
Two hours before each and every show.
In person at the Auditorium Box Office (50 E. Congress Pkwy) with a valid student I.D.
Limit two tickets per I.D.
Tickets are subject to availability.

NOTE: Student Rush is last minute tickets sold at the discretion of the presenter. Polices may differ. Offer is for college students only. Tickets and locations are subject to availability.

A Dancer's Experience With Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

La Vie Cherie Magazine interviewed Aisha Mitchell, a young member of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater about her experience with the Company. She says that getting started is a lot of hard work, but "touring is incredible, it’s an opportunity that a lot of people don’t experience!”

Read the full article here.

On The Road With...KT McCammond Photos

Last Saturday, we had our first On The Road With...Cabaret at the Polo Cafe's Old Eagle Room. Patrons enjoyed a scrumptious buffet dinner in an elegant early 1900's setting and a rousing performance by KT McCammond featuring the music of Eartha Kitt.

Here are some photos:

Photos by Veronica Batterson.

The Lounge at the Auditorium

Our lobby is a hip lounge this summer with black couches, neon tables, music and cool lighting. You don't need tickets to Fuerza Bruta in order to visit us. The Lounge at the Auditorium opens on Tuesdays - Saturdays at 6:30 pm and Sundays at 2 pm.

Visit the lounge before or after you experience Fuerza Bruta or drop by after work with friends. You'll enjoy champagne splits, the Summer Solstice martini, gourmet empanadas and more.

Daily drink specials are also available:

Tuesdays - $5 Specialty Martinis
Wednesdays - $2 Domestic Bottles
Thursdays - $4 House Wine
Fridays - $3 Lemon Drops
Saturdays - $5 Red Bull and Vodka
Sundays - $4 Screwdrivers

KT McCammond - Next Saturday

KT McCammond kicks off our "On the Road with..." cabaret series at the Polo Cafe's Old Eagle room next Saturday, June 12. She'll be celebrating the music of Eartha Kitt. There are only a few tickets left! $60 includes your dinner - call 312.922.2110 ext 300 to get your tickets.

Dean Richards gives Fuerza Bruta an A

Fuerza Bruta Pics

Fuerza Bruta opened on Friday with a splash! Don't miss the Chicago event of the summer - get your tickets today!

Fuerza Bruta in the press.

Fuerza Bruta: Look Up opens tonight. Check out what the press is saying. Mary Houlihan from the Chicago Sun-Times says it "shatters conventional theater experience," and Chris Jones from the Chicago Tribune says "no rule book requires performers to do their thing in front of your face, when they can envelop you and graze the top of your skull instead."

Cabaret Tickets are Going Fast!

We are 80% sold out for our "On the road with..." summer cabaret performances at the Polo Cafe's Old Eagle Room. If you want to see KT McCammond, Jessie Arlen or Dakota Horvath - and enjoy a sumptuous meal - call soon! 312.922.2110 ext 300. Tickets are $60, which includes dinner.

Where's the Best Seat in the House?

For sound, it's Balcony A409. For sight, it's main floor P309. Overall, G308. That's what our Executive Director Brett Batterson explains in this Tribune article.

Subscriptions On Sale Now!

Call us at 312.431.2357 to reserve your subscription for our exciting 2010-2011 dance series! Click here to see our brochure.

Special offer for Fuerza Bruta

Broadway in Chicago is thrilled to make a special $25 introductory ticket available for the latest stage-on-stage production, Fuerza Bruta: Look Up. The offer is valid for the first six performances only:

Friday, May 21 at 7:30 and 10:00 pm
Saturday, May 22 at 7:30 and 10:00 pm
Sunday, May 23 at 3:00 and 6:30 pm

Don't miss the show everyone will be talking about this summer! FUERZA BRUTA: LOOK UP is a non-stop collision of dynamic music, visceral emotion, and kinetic aerial imagery.

Click here to watch video.

To order tickets, click here and use promotional code INTRO. You can also visit the Auditorium's box office (50 E. Congress Pkwy, noon - 6 pm) or any Broadway in Chicago box office or call 800.775.2000.

Photos of Russian Pointe's ballet shoe cobbler

Get a glimpse of how pointe shoes are made! Our friends at Russian Pointe shared some photos of their ballet shoe cobbler.

Tornadoes, fruit pie, Vaseline and more!

Susan Werner is getting ready for her fifth performance at the Auditorium on May 13. According to Susan, she’s been trying a lot of new songs in shows lately. Audiences can expect the unexpected. Any topic could be covered during the show including:

Tornadoes.
Small town gossip.
A woman outlaw.
Parenting a special needs child.
West Virginia.
New Orleans.
Fruit pie.
Landlords.
Vaseline.
Manhattan, Kansas.
Being friends with men - tricky, that....

Learn more about Susan Werner's cabaret.

Eclectica Reviews

The Chicago Sun-Times says if you "need a lift," try The Joffrey Ballet's Eclectica this weekend.

The Chicago Tribune describes James Kudelka's "Pretty BALLET" as "thrilling, ingeniously designed, devilishly rebellious and brash in its showmanship."

Click here for more information.

Fuerza Bruta on The Today Show

Click here to watch a Today Show feature on Fuerza Bruta, coming to the Auditorium on May 21!

AAADT announces new Artistic Director, Robert Battle

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater appointed Robert Battle as its new Artistic Director. Battle will succeed Judith Jamison when she retires in June 2011. According to the New York Times, "His work has been described as high-energy, with plentiful leaps and spins, physically demanding and emotive. Alastair Macaulay, the New York Times dance critic, took note of his deep knowledge of craft and cited his virtues: “the exciting effects, the contrasts, the skill in showing several things happening at the same time.”"

Read more in the New York Times.

$15 Student Rush Tickets Available To The Joffrey

$15 Student Rush tickets are available to The Joffrey Ballet's Eclectica

Wednesday, April 28 at 7:30pm
Friday, April 30 at 7:30pm
Saturday, May 1 at 2:00 & 7:30pm
Sunday, May 2 at 2:00pm
Friday, May 7 at 7:30pm
Saturday, May 8 at 2:00 & 7:30pm
Sunday, May 9 at 7:30pm

GET STUDENT RUSH TICKETS:

In person at the Auditorium Box Office (50 E. Congress Pkwy)
One hour before show time
Limit two tickets per valid college ID
Locations based on ticket availability

Crossed
Choreography by Jessica Lang Music by Mozart, Handel and des Prez
A reflection on music inspired by religion, ranging from the dramatic to the reverent to the joyous. Lang is known for her inventive vision and emotionally charged choreography. World Premiere

Pretty BALLET
Choreography by James Kudelka Music by Martinů
In a collision of worlds, Pretty BALLET explores the balance between romantic ideals and industrial ideas as they relate to art. Kudelka has the rare ability to marry classical tradition with modern movement with superb results. World Premiere

Reflections
Choreography by Gerald Arpino Music by Tchaikovsky
A neoclassical, pure dance ballet and a perfect example of the Arpino style - high lifts, a flying pace, and classic beauty. This fast-paced and physically challenging ballet is an audience favorite! Joffrey Classic

VISIT JOFFREY.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION

Note: This offer is for college students only. Student Rush is last minute tickets sold at the discretion of the presenter. Polices may differ. Tickets and locations are subject to availability.

Read more about The Joffrey Ballet's Eclectica

Today's Tribune and Sun-Times both have previews of The Joffrey's Eclectica, opening on Wednesday!

Auditorium on Society of Architectural Historians Phone App

A new program by the Society of Architectural Historians offers information about ten early Chicago skyscrapers, including the Auditorium Building, right on your phone! Just scan a bar code for details. Here's a Tribune article with the details.