Monday, October 31, 2011
Mr. Singer & The Sharp Cookies Cover The Cramps-Goo Goo Muck, LIVE Concert Video & Photo Filled Redmoon Theatre Halloween Recap
We're huge fans of The Cramps and White Stripes, so we were stoked to hear Mr. Singer and The Sharp Cookies cover both at their Halloween Beat Kitchen show yesterday. The show was so much fun!
We also had fun Friday at Redmoon Theatre's Halloween Party. I'm a sucker for fire shows, so that was fun, and it was OK for what it was--basically a free dance party with DJ, cash bar and super short, very similar shows throughout the evening. The shows were basically one opera singer, a musician on theremin/keyboard and fountains of fire. We had a good time and ran into a lot of friends there.
However, drink lines were brutally long, the event wasn't kid friendly, and it wasn't the creative, interactive theatre spectacle of Halloweens past by a long shot. Still, if they did it again and made clear what it was, I'd go again if they quadrupled the bar tenders and varied the entertainment a bit more.
Mr. Singer & The Sharp Cookies Halloween Show-Got A Monster In Me (LIVE video)-Punkin' Prom
Mr. Singer & The Sharp Cookies Halloween Show at Beat Kitchen-Got A Monster In Me
I'm tempted to print that Punkin' Prom's 2nd year at Lincoln Hall was terrible and tell everyone to stay away, but I can not tell a lie. Despite the fear that our awesome little secret will be out, making this event overrun and crazy next year, it was awesome and deserves some kudos. Thanks Miss Mia and Ratso for a fabulous free event. We got HUGE pumpkins and kits to take home for a tiny little sum of $5. The band, The Cell Phones, was a hoot! And everyone had a rockin' time with the dance party, costume contest and pumpkin carving/contest. They shot footage for an upcoming Chic-A-Go-Go episode, so keep your eyes peeled.
Mr. Singer & The Sharp Cookies-LIVE Concert Video & Trick or Treat Roscoe Village and Clark Street Spooktacular
ChiIL Out with ChiIL Mama today. We have loads of fun, Halloween themed footage from Mr. Singer's show at Beat Kitchen yesterday. We'll be posting new clips all day, so check in like we vote in Chi, IL...early and often.
We'll have photo filled recaps soon from Redmoon Theatre's Halloween Party Friday and Punkin' Prom at Lincoln Hall with Miss Mia, Ratso, and Chic-A-Go-Go Saturday.
In this post we're featuring Saturday's Spooktacular on Clark, and Sunday's Roscoe Village Trick or Treat.
We got some fun shots at Clark Street's Spooktacular this year. Check out the slide show above. Sage shared her mad circus skills from CircEsteem with a street performer we happened upon, "Circus Boy". And there were some creative costumes.
Unfortunately, Spooktacular wasn't so spectacular this year. They've finally reached the critical mass point where it was uncomfortably crowded, more than half the merchants were out of candy two hours before the slated end of trick or treat time, and the costume contest was poorly run.
The past two years, the contest was in a spacious, outdoor area. This year someone had the boneheaded idea to move it into a storefront where everyone was standing on top of one another and the kids were crabby, hot and unhappy about long waits for the judging. There were a huge number of entrants and the age categories were far too big with 6-10 year olds all lumped in together. Even the awesome animal (the Muppet drummer) costume didn't even place in 1st-3rd! We'll be skipping this one next year and can no longer recommend it in good conscience.
****Note to parents: If you don't have a homemade costume, PLEASE skip entering costume contests (unless it's stated every entrant gets a consolation prize or there's some very compelling reason). Sure that princess dress you dropped mega bucks on may be cute, but these contests are meant to reward creativity and originality and all the mediocre store bought costumes are gumming up the works with hundreds of kids with no hope of winning, and making these things drag on far too long!
Roscoe Village Trick or Treat the Merchants & Mr. Singer's Halloween Show at Beat Kitchen With Hot Glue Gun DIY Dragon, Du-Jay, and Rock Star Ghost, Ember, Sagezilla.
Roscoe Village's trick or treat and costume parade was also well attended and crowded but run much better. The Lane Tech marching band lent a joyous air to the festivities. Check out Lane Tech's creative video here and vote as often as once a day through 11/7 to help them earn a grant to buy new instruments. They've made a hilarious and heartfelt parody to the tune of Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody. Lane Tech's entry in the Glee Give a Note Contest, "New Instrument Rhapsody", is super creative and well worth a look and a daily vote.
There were also quite a few merchants out of candy here, but I have a bit more sympathy for them after talking to our long time friend, Patty, who owns the funky, fun salon, Big Hair. She said she spends $500 every year on candy for the event. That's a serious investment!
Remember to check back in early and often for more live footage and holiday fun. Happy ChiILoween. Enjoy!
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Happy Halloween-Mr. Singer Covers White Stripes Little Ghost
Here's some of our live footage from Mr. Singer & The Sharp Cookies rockin' Halloween Show. Big congrats to their drummer, Maurius Mustard, whose wife Honey just gave birth to their 2nd child today! Welcome baby Stella.
ChiIL out with ChiIL Mama this Halloween week as we bring you loads more live Halloween show footage, photo filled features, and more. We'll be bringing you a "Tech or Treat" feature, great video game give aways from Activision, new news from PopCap and 30Second Mom and so much more.
We'll have a grand tour of the new Wonder! store including a video tour and interview with the founder. We'll have video interviews and live show clips from A Christmas Story the Musical.
Remember to enter to win some great DVDs for adults/older kids. Entries taken through midnight Halloween night. Tomorrow we'll be posting a big "What We're Watching" recap and picking our winners. If you love Iggy Pop, Jesus Lizard, and Elvis Costello, this one's for you! All info stays confidential except the winner's first name/last initial and is never shared, sold or scrawled on bathroom walls. Enter right here for your chance to win.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
More ChiILoween Fun Today
How bout a little Punk Kin Pie?!
Top Pick: Punkin' Prom
Since its 1996 debut, CHIC-A-GO-GO has been one of the most original and entertaining shows on Chicago television. People of all ages, colors, and backgrounds, linked by their love of music, dance togetherin harmony on the CHIC-A-GO-GO set. The dancers, who range in age from newborns to youthful seniors, move to the latest Hip Hop music, as well as classic R&B, Rock & Roll, Punk, Funk, and all points in between.
Lincoln Hall is thrilled to present a CHIC-A-GO-GO Halloween event, hosted by Ratso, the rat puppet, with his human side kick, Miss Mia. Miss Mia and Ratso will lead kids of all ages through group dances like the "Limb-Oh", the Zombie and the Monster Mash. There will also be a costume parade along with a costume contest and a pumpkin carving contest. This all ages event is a great way to wear your costumes as much as you can this Halloween season, although coming as yourself is just as fun. http://www.roctober.com/chicagogo/
THE BIG BAD SPOOKTACULAR: ELECTRIC BOOGALOO
by Ike Holter
The Big Bad Spooktacular is back again to take over Chicago in this terrifyingly funny, family friendly, hip hop musical. Who will stop her? Zeke the friendly neighborhood monster is on the mission with or without the help of The Roustabouts, a gaggle of hipster dancers.
Directed by Mary Williamson
Produced by Hannah Michaelson
Presented by Nothing Without a Company
Featuring Patty Corcoran, Rashaad Hall, Conor McCahill, Valerie Lyvers, Amanda Powell, and Ryan Tang
Play date: October 29, 2011
Times: 1:30pm, 2:30pm, and 3:30pm
Lincoln Park: Northeast corner of Clark and Belden
Times: 1:30pm, 2:30pm, and 3:30pm
Lincoln Park: Northeast corner of Clark and Belden
Wheelchair and stroller accessible
Free to the public
Check out other cool Halloween events at
and
For more information regarding casting and auditions please e-mail:
casting.nothingwithoutacompany@gmail.com
casting.nothingwithoutacompany@gmail.com
Halloween Spooktacular Returns! To Clark Street!!
Oct 29 1:00pm - 5:00pm
Clark Street in Lincoln Park, between Armitage & Diversey, Chicago, IL, 60614
Ghouls, Goblins, Tricks & Treats for ... All Ages!
On October 29, it happens mysteriously and miraculously...Clark Street in Lincoln Park is transformed into a ghoulish wonderland! Why? Because...It's Baaack! The popular, appropriate-for-all-ages, fun for all, ever FREE of charge, colorful, candy-filled, costume-loving CLARK STREET SPOOKTACULAR returns! In fact, the Huffington Post calls it a Must-Do fall festival in Chicago, and while we're blushing, we do agree!
For those of you who celebrated with us before, you know what the Spooktacular is all about: street magicians, jugglers, balloon artists, Halloween inflatables and costumed characters strolling Clark Street in Lincoln Park (from Armitage to Diversey and the south side of Diversey from Orchard to Lakeview), all serving to engage pedestrians in good old-fashioned Halloween fun. If it's your first year at the Spooktacular, well, you're in for a (ahem) treat!
Spooktacular attendees, bring your family, bring your friends, bring your pooch if you'd like, but be sure to come on out! Just register at "Halloween Headquarters" (2260 N. Clark Street) and delight in FREE refreshments, crafts, and games before embarking on a trick-or-treating trek to participating businesses all along the street!
Spooktacular attendees, bring your family, bring your friends, bring your pooch if you'd like, but be sure to come on out! Just register at "Halloween Headquarters" (2260 N. Clark Street) and delight in FREE refreshments, crafts, and games before embarking on a trick-or-treating trek to participating businesses all along the street!
While loading up on tasty treasures, trick-or-treaters will encounter ple
nty of surprises along the way: in addition to street performers and balloon artists, there will also be performances by theater group Nothing Without A Company: Electric Boogaloo! And, of course, Scarecrows On Parade will delight and amuse our costumed revelers during their tour. Lots of local businesses will offer special discounts and surprises, too. And, at 4:30, join in the rousing costume contest, where "best dressed" in a number of age categories will win fabulous prizes. Word to the wise, for those donning costumes: originality and creativity are key! And remember: it's a family event...!
Schedule of Activities:
| 1:00 – 5:00 pm | Trick-or-treating check-in, refreshments, crafts, games SPOOKTACULAR Headquarters, 2260 N. Clark Street |
| 1:00 – 5:00 pm | Trick-or-treating along Clark Street in Lincoln Park (At participating establishments. Maps available at check-in.) |
| 1:00 – 5:00 pm | Live entertainment along Clark Street in Lincoln Park |
| 1:30, 2:30, 3:30 pm | 'The Big Bad Spooktacular: Electric Boogaloo' presented by Nothing Without a Company and written by Ike Holter (At the corner NE corner of Clark and Belden.) |
| 4:30 pm | SPOOKTACULAR COSTUME CONTEST for children and adults 'BEST OF ScareCROW' winners announcement SPOOKTACULAR Headquarters, 2260 N. Clark Street |
*Du-Jay won a prize in this one for his Ska-Crow Costume a couple years ago! We did a DIY scarecrow with Ska bands on all the patches-including The Toasters who are playing Subterranean this Thursday at 10pm-celebrating 30 years of NYC SKA! http://subt.net/cal-events/?e=306
Participating retailers will be offering specials and in-store activities for shoppers all day long. Maps will be available at SPOOKTACULAR Headquarters, 2260 N. Clark Street.
**Du-Jay took 2nd place in this one as a little guy, with his DIY Punk Kin costume featuring a green mohawk stem, a giant fabric pumpkin with a pierced nose and all our favorite 80's punk bands all over it. He topped it off with a flannel, ripped knee jeans and Chucks hi-tops.
Despite our aversion for the paloozafication of all things non-Lolla....this is a pretty good event. Check out the full line up here. We've hit this one up for 3 years and it just gets better every time. Now if someone would just rethink the name....
If you make it down, check out our favorite toy store for the future rock star set--Psychobaby. These guys rock!
Friday, October 28, 2011
ChiILoween Highly Recommended Events
Ah Howl-o-Ween! This is one of our favorite times of the year. We love a good excuse to dress up. Of course, around here, every day is Halloween. Since more of the rest of the city is joining us and embracing their inner freak this weekend, we have a few recommendations.
There are a zillion fun things going down and long, comprehensive lists on the search engines and bigger publications. Here at ChiIL Mama, we go for quality over quantity and here are our faves. We'll have howling good photo filled features up next week.
Friday:
Saturday:
This one's no trick and all treat. ChiIL Mama was out at Wonder today for a sneak peek at this impressive, new space and highly recommend it! We'll have exclusive interviews with the founder, a video tour, and a photo filled feature up this week. For more info about the opening, check out http://shopwonder.com/.
Doors at 8am
First 100 purchasers get a gift card worth a secret amount!
Come see it for yourself if you can. Ralph Covert of Ralph's World will be playing a free show there at 11am.
*ChiIL Mama will have an original interview with Ralph and live footage from the V.I.R. (very important rocker) show Kidzapalooza weekend posted in the very near future, so ChiIL Out and Check in early and often.
Sunday:
ChiIL Mama's Sponsored Concert:
Mr. Singer & The Sharp Cookies at Beat Kitchen at noon
There are a zillion fun things going down and long, comprehensive lists on the search engines and bigger publications. Here at ChiIL Mama, we go for quality over quantity and here are our faves. We'll have howling good photo filled features up next week.
Friday:
Halloween Party at Redmoon Central!
MACHINES. MUSIC. MANIA.
Celebrate Halloween with Redmoon October 28th, 9pm - 1am
Join Redmoon for a ONE NIGHT ONLY party. See our newest mechanical creations, performance moments and FIRE SPECTACLE!!
Join Redmoon for a ONE NIGHT ONLY party. See our newest mechanical creations, performance moments and FIRE SPECTACLE!!
Free Entry - Cash Bar - Live DJ - Costumes welcome
Join us at Redmoon Central, 1463 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL. Questions? Email boxoffice@redmoon.org.
Saturday:
This one's no trick and all treat. ChiIL Mama was out at Wonder today for a sneak peek at this impressive, new space and highly recommend it! We'll have exclusive interviews with the founder, a video tour, and a photo filled feature up this week. For more info about the opening, check out http://shopwonder.com/.
Doors at 8am
First 100 purchasers get a gift card worth a secret amount!
Come see it for yourself if you can. Ralph Covert of Ralph's World will be playing a free show there at 11am.
*ChiIL Mama will have an original interview with Ralph and live footage from the V.I.R. (very important rocker) show Kidzapalooza weekend posted in the very near future, so ChiIL Out and Check in early and often.
Introducing an entirely new way to shop. For Kids. With Kids. WONDER! is here!
Please join us on October 29th & 30th for a variety of family fun activities. Plus, the first 100 purchasers will receive a gift card with a secret value!
Saturday, October 29th
• 7:45AM – Ribbon Cutting
• 11AM – WONDER! Kid's Concert Series featuring Ralph’s World
• Arts & Crafts at the ALEX Toys Art Bar
• Balloon Artists, Face Painters & More!
Sunday, October 30th – Halloween @ WONDER!
• Come in costume and trick or treat throughout the store
• Pumpkin decorating in the WONDER! Pumpkin Patch
• Story Time with the “Not-So-Wicked” WONDER! Witch
• Arts & Crafts at the ALEX Toys Art Bar
• Balloon Artists, Face Painters & More!
Sunday:
Mr. Singer & The Sharp Cookies at Beat Kitchen at noon
Mr. Singer & the Sharp Cookies, Oct. 30
Check out ChiIL Mama's original interview with the whole band right here!
Then check 'em out in person at Beat Kitchen's Special Halloween show, Spooktacular Activities and a parade!
Can you imagine a better way to celebrate Halloween than with Mr. Singer & The Sharp Cookies? We have the perfect Halloween fun all planned out for you. First, dress up. Come to Beat Kitchen. Dance like crazy.
Meet Sagezilla, Du Jay and ChiIL Mama who have cool, FREE ChiIL Mama buttons to give away!
Then get tattoos and do crafts with Sue from ChicagoKids.com, make masks with Wishcraft AND enjoy special suprises from Building Blocks. Grab a bite to eat at Beat Kitchen. Then head out to join the Roscoe Village Halloween Parade kicking off from Leavitt and Roscoe at 2pm.
Then get tattoos and do crafts with Sue from ChicagoKids.com, make masks with Wishcraft AND enjoy special suprises from Building Blocks. Grab a bite to eat at Beat Kitchen. Then head out to join the Roscoe Village Halloween Parade kicking off from Leavitt and Roscoe at 2pm.
Buy tickets here. Beat Kitchen is located at 2100 W. Belmont.
Remember to ChiIL Out with ChiIL Mama for loads of great music news, reviews, free tickets and awesome give aways. We have free family 4 packs of tixs to EVERY Beat Kitchen Concert for Kids show and more. Check back early and often for free kindie and adult music, video games, DVDs, books, toys, concert and theatre tixs and more.
We also feature video interviews with bands, live show footage, and photo filled features. Check in early and often for a heads up about upcoming events.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Winners: Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Fully Charged, Goodnight Moon the Musical & Mr. Singer at Beat Kitchen
Big congrats to all 3 of our ticket winners this week!
Family 4 pack to ChiIL Mama's Sponsored KINDIE Concerts: Mr. Singer & The Sharp Cookies at Beat Kitchen
Sunday, October 30th at noon: Sanela C.
Family 4 pack to Goodnight Moon the Musical Sunday, October 30th at 3pm: Raoul C.
Family 4 pack to Fully Charged on Thursday, November 17th at 7pm: Jay A.
All our readers are winners with the code MOM for big discounts.
If you didn't win free tixs this time, be sure to enter to win next time. We have weekly ticket give aways and some amazing CDs, video games, DVDs, books, & toys coming up before the holidays!
Click here if you missed our recent photo slide shows from Mr. Singer's last show at Beat Kitchen and our sneak peek at the Goodnight Moon set!
As always, ChiIL Out with ChiIL Mama for live show footage, photo filled coverage, video interviews, reviews, upcoming events news and more. If you don't want to miss anything, enter your e-mail in the side bar for easy
updates in your in box, or follow us by RSS feed.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
CircEsteem-Fall Classes Begin This Week!
There's no better time than FALL to FALL in love with circus arts. CircEsteem is growing, and they've greatly increased their class offerings for kids and adults, too. We'll have a big photo and video filled feature from their Sunday FUNdraiser. For now, check out their classes and discover how much fun a good laugh and a good work out can be for your mind and body.
Fall Class Registration Info Session 2: October 24 – December 18, 2011
New Classes Session 2 – Did you know we offer curriculum classes on Mon/Wed afternoons? Sure do. What used to be known as Beginner/Intermediate Circus or Circus 1 / Circus 2 is now the Circus Buffet. This “Circus Sampler” is open to everyone and instruction will be given on all skill levels. For the more experienced student, we’re offering several new classes including: Chinese Pole, Clowning, Juggling, Hula Hoops, and a Tumbling & Mini-Trampoline combo.
New Pricing Structure – No fee increases, just better deals. We now have an “all-you-can-circus” option that also includes weekday curriculum classes. You’ll see it listed as “The Whole Enchilada” on our Registration Form. And, returning participants get a 10% discount when registering with a friend for a CircEsteem class. (Your friend must be new to CircEsteem. Offer valid for a class not a workshop).
Private Instruction – Available in most of the disciplines listed in this schedule. For questions or to schedule private classes, please call 312.731.4242. Rates: $60/hour Single; $30/hour/student Double; $25/hour/student Triple
New Workshops for Adults – (and kids) Not able to commit to 8 weeks of class? Like to try before you buy? Check out our Sunday Workshops. Try Foot Juggling, Chinese Pole, Hula Hoops, Clowning, Stilting.
Winter Circus – SAT-SUN, December 17-18 - Times TBA. In CircEsteem’s training space at Alternatives, a weekend of shows highlighting students’ newly acquired skills. Students enrolled in the session leading up to the Winter Circus will be eligible to perform. A $25 donation is suggested but not mandatory for participants.
Class Fees & Policies
CircEsteem wants to make circus available to all students regardless of financial status. Fees for Saturday Circus Buffet class and HomeWork & CircusWork, PreTeam, CircusTeam are on a sliding scale. Families who can afford to pay the full price are asked to do so. One half of the class fee is considered a tax- deductible contribution as it will underwrite another student’s participation. Aerial, Gym Wheel, Tight Wire, Trampoline, Tumbling, and Unicycle classes and other curriculum classes are not eligible for the sliding scale. If you have any questions, please contact Rachel.
There is a 3 participant minimum for all classes. Classes are appropriate for children age 7 and up unless otherwise specified in the class description. Some classes require pre-requisites and/or instructor permission. Most classes have limited enrollment.
CircEsteem Mission
To unite youth from diverse racial, cultural, and economic backgrounds and help them build self-esteem and mutual respect through the practice of circus arts.
This guiding principle is the heart of each and every one of our classes and programs.
CircEsteem | 4730 N. Sheridan Rd. | Chicago, IL 60640 Info@CircEsteem.org | 312.731.4242 | www.CircEsteem.orgcurriculumclasses
Tumbling & Mini-Trampoline – SAT: 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. $160 per session Pre-requisite: Tumbling Level 1 Skill Competency and Instructor Permission
**NEW**
This class will focus primarily on tumbling. Students will continue working on somersaults, bridges, cartwheels, headstands, and body positions necessary for Mini-Trampoline, Trampoline, Partner Acrobatics. Strength and flexibility will be emphasized. Part of each lesson will include Mini-Trampoline. Instructor: Carlo Gentile
Unicycle – Beyond Beginner – SAT: 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. $160 per session Pre-requisite: Ability to ride unassisted and Instructor Permission While Beginner Unicycle focuses on the fundamentals, the Beyond Beginner class will focus on mounts, hops, and idling. Trick mounts, acrobatic riding, one pedal and no pedal tricks will be introduced to more advanced riders. If you can ride across the Youth Center without a spotter, this class is for you. Instructor: Sam Sake
Aerial Arts Level 3 – SAT: 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. $160 per session Pre-requisite: Aerial Arts Level 2 Skill Competency and Instructor Permission Building on the skills introduced in Aerial Arts Level 2, students in this class will focus on choreography and act creation specifically refining transitions between tricks and creating polished acts using trapeze & fabric. Instructor: Tera McBlaine
Aerial Arts Level 2 – SAT: 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. $160 per session Pre-requisite: Aerial Arts Level 1 Skill Competency and Instructor Permission Building on the skills introduced in Aerial Arts Level 1, students in this class will focus on more difficult trapeze and fabric tricks, flexibility and grace along with full body strength. Instructor: Lizzy Gifford
Aerial Arts Level 1 – SAT: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. $160 per session Pre-requisite: None This class will focus on static trapeze and hanging fabric (silk). Building strength, coordination, and a basic aerialist vocabulary are its goals. Instructors: Lizzy Gifford, Tera McBlaine
Chinese Pole – SAT: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. $160 per session Pre-requisite: Tumbling Level 1 Skill Competency and Instructor Permission. Thin-soled shoes.
Unleash your inner monkey. Learn the basic climbs and static holds for Chinese pole. No rosin, no tape, no rubber, no padding. Just cold hard steel. For this introductory class, much of our focus will be on building strength and coordination. Did I forget to mention you’re going to be sore, buff, and cool? Instructor: Carlo Gentile
Tight Wire – SAT: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. $160 per session Pre-requisite: Circus Level 1 or Circus Camp and Instructor Permission. Socks. Learn wire walking fundamentals. The majority of the instruction will take place 2 feet off the ground. Focus will be on technique and form in order to build the confidence necessary to cross the wire unassisted. Instructor(s): TBA
**NEW**
Unicycle – SAT: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. $160 per session Pre-requisite: Circus Level 1 or Circus Camp and Instructor Permission. Closed-toe shoes. Learn to unicycle! The Free Mount, straight line, turns and idling are all possibilities for beginners. Instructors: Colvin Creveling, Sam Sake
CircEsteem | 4730 N. Sheridan Rd. | Chicago, IL 60640 Info@CircEsteem.org | 312.731.4242 | www.CircEsteem.org
- 2 -
Circus Buffet – SAT: 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. $160 per session Pre-requisite: None Formerly Circus 1 Circus 2 and Beginner/Intermediate Circus. The Circus Buffet focuses on the basic principles of circus: balance, coordination and clowning. Curriculum rotates. Session 2 curriculum may include juggling, spinning plates, diabolo, partner acrobatics, etc. However, tight wire will not be offered. Instructors: Anthony Courser, Carlo Gentile, Brian P. Dailey, Sam Sake
Clowning: Get Your Silly On! – SAT: 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. $160 per session Pre-requisite: Generosity. Openness. Imagination. Instructor Permission.
Through play we will discover what it is to be onstage and in performance! We will learn to embrace our inner silliness as we explore, and celebrate, our impulses: following, giving, receiving, and committing. We will begin to develop your own personal clown character and how he or she lives, and plays, in a world with other clowns! Instructor: Anthony Courser
Hula Hoops – SAT: 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. $160 per session Pre-requisite: None
This class puts a whole new spin on hula hooping! Learn the elusive art of “creeping”, moving a hoop up and down the legs and torso without the aid of your hands. Try out separations, spinning multiple hoops simultaneously and independently on different parts of the body. Get your co-ordination on with single hoop manipulations; throws, spirals, twists, and more. Hooping is great for core strength, posture, and flexibility, and most importantly, a lot of fun. Instructor: Lizzy Gifford
Juggling & Manipulation – SAT: 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. $160 per session Pre-requisite: Solid 3 ball cascade (at least 50 continuous throws-catches). Or Instructor Permission.
This class will focus on individual skill development in the toss juggling universe. Content could include Balls, Rings, Clubs, Diabolos, Cigar Boxes—basically, whatever students can “throw at” their instructor. Brian will help students set and accomplish personal goals no matter what the prop. Using good technique and finding a personal aesthetic will be stressed. Though this class will emphasize solo work, group work is definitely possible. Instructor: Brian P. Dailey
Pure Mini-Trampoline – SAT: 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. $160 per session Pre-requisite: Safely execute dive roll from mini-tramp. Instructor Permission. Socks.
Title says it all. What more do you need to know? This is not a beginner level class. Expect to flip. Expect to fly. Expect to sweat.
Instructor: Sam Sake
Stilt Walking – MON: 3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. $160 per session Pre-requisite: None
Stilt-walking has been part of legends, rituals and festivals from around the world for millennia, especially in celebrations of growth and achievement. Young and old alike gravitate to a stilted character towering above the crowd. That could be you.
Recommended for children 9 and up, this class will stress good technique for peg stilts. Peg stilts are the most common stilts used by professional performers. These stilts strap on at the foot, ankle, and knee and give the walker great versatility. These lightweight stilts allow one to walk quickly, to turn suddenly, and even to jump rope or dance. The walker must keep moving at all times to keep himself from falling over. Instructor: Colin Creveling
CircEsteem | 4730 N. Sheridan Rd. | Chicago, IL 60640 Info@CircEsteem.org | 312.731.4242 | www.CircEsteem.org
**NEW**
**NEW**
**NEW**
**NEW**
**NEW**
Aerial Web & Hoop – WED: 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. $160 per session Pre-requisite: Aerial Arts Level 1 Skill Competency and Instructor Permission Building on the foundational skills and aerialist vocabulary introduced in Aerial Arts Level 1, this class will introduce similar, but complimentary aerial equipment. As with all other Aerial Arts, flexibility, grace and full body strength will be emphasized. Instructor: Lizzy Gifford
Adult Wheel – WED: 7:30 p.m. - 8:45 p.m. $180 per session Pre-requisite: None Hailed as one of the best workouts in Chicago, CircEsteem’s Adult Gym Wheel Class is an opportunity for grown-ups to get in on the fun. Adult Gym Wheel is a fun and energizing core workout for people of all levels of fitness.
This Beginner Level class focuses on straight-line moves and developing confidence, even when upside- down. Students will be given individualized attention and given the opportunity to move at their own pace. Instructor: Sam Sake
Performance Track
CircusTeam – M/W: 5:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. $300 per session Pre-requisite: Invitation CircusTeam is CircEsteem’s elite performing group. Selection is a privilege bestowed upon those who demonstrate exemplary desire and work ethic indicated by attaining a high level of competency in multiple circus disciplines, both as soloists and as partners.
The purpose of CircusTeam is to create group acts, build upon the advanced circus skills learned at Saturday Circus, and create smaller acts to be used for gigs. Gigs both showcase Chicago's only social circus organization and earn income for its programming and scholarships.
Focus will be on act/show creation, working with music, movement, choreography, dance, and performance technique.
Performance opportunities will be local, regional, national and international.
Instructors: Anthony Courser, Brian P. Dailey, Carlo Gentile, Orlene Gentile, Lizzy Gifford, Sam Sake
PreTeam – M/W: 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. $225 per session Pre-requisite: Invitation PreTeam is a training and performing opportunity for students interested in pursuing circus arts more seriously with the goal of becoming members of the CircusTeam. PreTeam members will work closely with the CircusTeam providing opportunities for mentorship and inspiration.
The purpose of PreTeam is to build the skills and character necessary to become part of CircusTeam. Emphasis will be placed on Acrobatic and Manipulation Fundamentals as well as Clown/Character and Performance Skills. Instructors: Anthony Courser, Brian P. Dailey, Carlo Gentile, Orlene Gentile, Lizzy Gifford, Sam Sake
Sunday Workshops Foot Juggling for All – 6.NOV: 10 AM –12 PM $50...only 6 slots
No one in the Midwest, and only a few people in North America, do (much less teach) foot juggling. Try your hand foot at this ancient Chinese art which originated as an exercise to increase soldiers’ foot speed. Orlene & Carlo learned antipodism at its source: Wuqiao, China—hailed as the Birthplace of Acrobatics. Interestingly, the Chinese government thinks that they studied foot juggling in China for 9 months because they’re spies. They escaped unscathed.
Chinese Pole for All – 13.NOV: 10 AM –12 PM $50..................................only 8 slots Unleash your inner monkey...but just for the morning. Learn the basic climbs, techniques and poses for Chinese pole. This workshop is open to anyone brave enough to hang out at the top of the world, comfortable supporting their own body weight with their arms, and not afraid of bruising. Thin-soled shoes recommended. Calloused hands optional.
Instructors: Carlo Gentile +/o Orlene Gentile
Hula Hoops – KIDS – 20.NOV: 10A-12P ...................................................$50..................................only 8 slots Hula Hoops – ADULTS – 20.NOV: 1-3 PM .................................................$50..................................only 8 slots This workshop puts a whole new spin on hula hooping! Learn the elusive art of “creeping”, moving a hoop up and down the legs and torso without the aid of your hands. Try out separations, spinning multiple hoops simultaneously and independently on different parts of the body. Get your co-ordination on with single hoop manipulations; throws, spirals, twists, and more. Hooping is great for core strength, posture, and flexibility, and most importantly, a lot of fun.
Instructor: Lizzy Gifford
Introduction To Clowning – ADULTS – 4.DEC: 9 am-4 pm ..................$100..........................Minimum 8 slots Through play we will develop personal stage presence, openness to opportunities, and your sense of awareness on stage. We will explore who you are and how you relate to others in performance by acknowledging and celebrating impulses: following, giving, receiving, and committing. You will begin to discover and develop your own clown character and explore how they play with others in this world. Instructor: Anthony Courser
Clowning For Kids: Get Your Silly On! – 11.DEC: 9 am-12 pm ......... $60..........................Minimum 8 slots Through play we will discover what it is to be onstage and in performance! We will learn to embrace our inner silliness as we explore, and celebrate, our impulses: following, giving, receiving, and committing. We will begin to develop your own personal clown character and how he or she lives, and plays, in a world with other clowns! A condensed version of the class offered this session.
Instructor: Anthony Courser
Stilt Walking for Families – 11.DEC: 1-4 PM ........$60/INDIVIDUAL or $40/FAMILY MEMBER .............only 16 slots Stilt-walking has been part of legends, rituals and festivals from around the world for millennia, especially in celebrations of growth and achievement. Young and old alike gravitate to a stilted character towering above the crowd. That could be you. Hey, that could be your kid towering over you.
Recommended for children 7+, this Workshop will give adults and children an opportunity to play together. Allow your children to see you face new challenges. Model the behavior you expect from them when out of your comfort zone. Let them succeed at something faster than you. You will all love the role reversal.
It goes without saying, this workshop will also stress good technique for peg stilts. Peg stilts are the most common stilts used by professional performers. These stilts strap on at the foot, ankle, and knee and give the walker great versatility. These lightweight stilts allow one to walk quickly, to turn suddenly, and even to jump rope or dance. The walker must keep moving at all times to keep himself from falling over. Instructor: Colin Creveling
Check out CircEsteem's main website for registration forms and more information. Highly recommended!