Join Us For The 3rd Annual "What Drives Her" Luncheon and Networking Event at The Chicago Auto Show Friday, Feb. 8th

Chicago Auto Show Announces 3rd Annual 

"What Drives Her" 

Luncheon and Networking Event

I've been attending The Chicago Auto Show since the early 90's and covering it during the media preview days for a decade. 2019 is no exception. I'll be back out shooting original photo filled features, and working on sponsored posts with A Girls Guide to Cars. RSVP and join me at the What Drives Her luncheon & panel or follow along vicariously on social media by watching for the event hashtag #WDH2019. We'll be live streaming and covering the event on social media in real time.

Chicago Auto Show organizers, in partnership with A Girls Guide to Cars and Women in Automotive, announced the third annual What Drives Her luncheon and networking event during the show's Media Preview on Friday, Feb. 8 at McCormick Place. 

Influential women will come together to highlight industry trends and share personal experiences surrounding the impact that females have on the automotive industry. The overarching theme this year will focus on the major shifts that are taking place in the automotive industry, including the ways that women are shaping its evolution.  

"General Motors CEO Mary Barra is often quoted as saying the auto industry will see more change in the next five years than the last 50," said Autotrader Executive Analyst Michelle Krebs. "Whether it is five years or more, the shift towards electric and autonomous vehicles as well as new ways to acquire personal transportation is occurring now, generating tremendous opportunities for creative women to reinvent what has been a male-dominated business." 

The 2019 What Drives Her event will feature a robust lineup of female speakers who will discuss the integral role women play within the auto industry as contributors, consumers and drivers of purchasing decisions. 

"Women buy or influence 85 percent of all vehicle purchases and hold the keys to $450 billion in spending each year, yet the biggest challenge is educating them as consumers and users of new technology," said Scotty Reiss, founder of A Girls Guide to Cars. "The most powerful way to change this is by engaging them as employees, leaders and innovators."

Autotrader's Krebs will moderate the first panel discussion surrounding how females are driving change in the auto industry. Panelists include Jessica Petty, manager of customer data analytics, Hyundai; Jeneen Rippey, vice president of global quality, electronics division, ZF; and Edie Wines, instructor, National Automobile Dealers Association.

Between the first and second panel discussions, Leah Marshall, director, influencer marketing, with the Association of National Advertisers (ANA), will present ANA's female-focused #SeeHer initiative. 

The second panel discussion topic will be centered around work, life and creating balance while building a career. Cars.com Editor-in-Chief Jennifer Newman will moderate the panel of women including Kathy Gilbert, global director of sales & business development, CDK; Laurie King, SVP, global operations & strategic solutions, Turtle Wax; Subi Ghosh, senior director of dealer strategy, Stream Companies; Lauren Brandt, Facebook client solutions manager and Returnity Project co-founder; and Kerri Wise, vice president, industry education and relations, TrueCar.

The What Drives Her event continues to be one example of how Chicago Auto Show organizers actively engage the female demographic. Foresight Research reports the Chicago Auto Show has an almost even split of male and female attendees: 45 percent of which are female.  

"As the nation's largest consumer auto show, one can argue the Chicago Auto Show is the perfect place to assess trends - not just locally but on a national level as well," said Kelly Webb Roberts, a board member for the Chicago Automobile Trade Association, producer of the Chicago Auto Show. "We're thrilled to continue to host this event to bring together some of the most influential women in the industry who are at the forefront of this change."

Pre-registration for What Drives Her on Friday, Feb. 8 is required. Please click here to register. What Drives Her begins at 11:15 a.m. with a coffee networking event at the Grand Concourse Media Stage (inside McCormick Place) and concludes in Hyundai's exhibit at 2:30 p.m. with a wine and dessert reception. Attendees are encouraged to use event hashtag #WDH2019 when posting on social media. 

Event sponsors include Autotrader, Facebook, Hyundai, Lot Linx, TrueCar, Turtle Wax and ZF. 

For more information on the 2019 Chicago Auto Show, please visit www.ChicagoAutoShow.com. 



About the Chicago Auto Show
The Chicago Auto Show is the largest auto show in North America, spanning more than 1 million square feet of production, concept and exotic vehicle exhibit space. In addition to hosting multiple world and North American vehicle debuts, the Chicago Auto Show's First Look for Charity raises more than $2.5 million annually for 18 vital Chicago organizations in a single night. The 2019 public show is Feb. 9-18. For more information, visit www.ChicagoAutoShow.com or www.Facebook.com/ChicagoAutoShow.

About the Chicago Automobile Trade Association
Founded in 1904, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association is one of the nation's largest metropolitan dealer organizations. It is comprised of more than 420 franchised new-car dealers and an additional 150 allied members. The group's dealer members employ about 19,000 people in the metropolitan area. The association has produced the world-famous Chicago Auto Show since 1935. For more information please visit www.CATA.info.

About Turtle Wax
The Turtle Wax story started with the launch of the first-ever liquid auto polish in 1944. Nearly 75 years later, the Most Innovative Brand in Car Care(tm) is still capturing the attention of the auto appearance category as the No. 1 selling brand in spray wax, car wash, carpet & fabric care, and more. With product distribution in more than 90 countries, the Turtle Wax brand resonates around the globe, but the brand's heart remains in its hometown of Chicago, where award-winning innovation is developed to this day. For an inside look at the brand's breakthrough product development process and how Turtle Wax supports car culture worldwide, visit YouTube.com/TurtleWax.





Disclosure: I have been compensated for sharing this information with my readers and covering The Chicago Auto Show media preview days. As always, all opinions are my own.

REVIEW: Disney On Ice presents Mickey's Search Party at Allstate Arena Jan. 24-27 and Feb. 7-10; United Center, Jan. 30 to Feb. 2, 2019

ChiIL Mama’s Chi, IL Picks List

Disney on Ice presents Mickey's Search Party at Allstate Arena, Jan. 24-27 and Feb. 7-10; United Center, Jan. 30 to Feb. 2

Photo credit: kimberly robb baker

Guest Review
by kimberly robb baker

Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party! surprised me by being such an incredible, creative spectacle that I—a grown woman with, ahem, sophisticated taste—thoroughly enjoyed it.

I walked into the venue looking forward to two hours of minimal parenting for which I would earn mom-of-the-week award from my 8-year-old daughter and her friends. I knew it would be pretty and that the girls would enjoy seeing Elsa, Moana, et all. Win/win, right? Frankly that alone is well worth the price of admission.

I sat smugly enjoying the pre-show. The cohosts were engaging the audience, as were Captain Hook’s hench-people (yay for women pirates!). This was going just as expected. The girls had seen Tinkerbell wandering the halls and spotted her in the arena. They were in fantasyland heaven and I could feel a bit of the week’s stress leave my shoulders.

As the show began—Tinkerbell captured, a magic meter we all have to fill up to rescue her, Mickey and Minnie and the gang bringing us into their mission—I thought how well Disney on Ice has this whole “engage the kids” thing down.
“That’s neat,” I thought as I saw some trampoline tricks happening during the “Belle” segment. “They’ve got acrobats too! And the skating is good. And the costumes. They’re not messing around here!”

And, of course, the kids were thrilled to see Woody and Buzz Lightyear—and a HUGE ball “jumped” off the cool interactive screen they had and into the audience who got to work together to get it back in the box before Andy came. The number that ensued from the green soldiers was so spectacular that it sealed the deal for me. This wasn’t something I was sitting through with the girls. I was enjoying it just as much as they were.

The circus arts, awesome screen (it’s hard to describe how well it integrated with and amplified the stories—especially in creating an impressive Te Fiti for Moana to face and heal), shared mission, and action happening across multiple levels and disciplines, much of it right from the audience made the experience feel like a big serendipity. At the heart of it was a strong foundation of beautiful skating, choreography and costumes.

I was completely gob smacked by the sugar-skull-populated, psychedelic afterlife created for the Coco scene. The girls’ favorite segments were Moana and Frozen. I have to say that a song we parents all seem to have had enough of, Let It Go, was downright moving when sung by a stadium full of children.
So, yes, your “kids” should definitely see this. Wink.

Photo credit: kimberly robb baker

Kimberly Robb Baker is a Chicago based writer, blogger, consultant, story teller, and mother. You can find her worky stuff here: ThisLittleBrand.com and her artsy fartsy stuff here:  DisruptiveMama.com.

Disney on Ice presents Mickey's Search Party

Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party is bringing guests closer to the magic than ever before through dynamic and immersive moments that take place on the ice, in the air and in the seats. 

The multi-week extravaganza opens Thursday, Jan. 24 at the Allstate Arena and moves to the United Center on Wednesday, Jan. 30, before returning to the Allstate Arena for a final week on Thursday, Feb. 7. Get your tickets and more show information HERE.

Beautifully told through artistic skating, Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party brings together sensational ice skaters and special effects that will take you on a participatory and magical adventure with your favorite Disney pals. Embark on a quest with Mickey Mouse and friends as they follow Captain Hook’s treasure map for clues to find Tinker Bell, travel to wintry Arendelle and sing along with Queen Elsa as she builds her ice palace, sail away with Moana on her voyage across the ocean and bravely encounter the fiery wrath of Te Ka, and much more. Bring your family together on this special journey and create unforgettable memories to last a lifetime!

Disney On Ice Brings You Closer to the Disney Magic Than Ever Before!

Join Mickey Mouse and his friends at Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party, a brand-new adventure filled with world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics and unexpected stunts! Help them follow Captain Hook’s treasure map and look for clues in the search for Tinker Bell in immersive, fantastic worlds. Explore the colorful spirit realm of Coco in Miguel’s Disney On Ice debut, sail away with Moana as she bravely saves her island, see Belle in the sky above you as the enchanted chandelier comes to life, and sing-along with Elsa in the icy world of Frozen.

Make memories with your whole family during Aladdin, Toy Story and The Little Mermaid as the search party becomes an all-out magical celebration on the ice, in the air, and all around!

 

Disclosure: ChiIL Mama's been partnering up with Disney on Ice for years. They have provided complimentary tickets for our giveaway and for review purposes. As always, all opinions are our own.

REVIEW: The Kid Who Would Be King Opens Everywhere January 25, 2019

ChiIL Mama's Chi, IL Picks List

What We're Watching: 

The Kid Who Would Be King

Guest Review
by kimberly robb baker

What kid today couldn’t use a little goodness, love, and perseverance? But what kid today would even relate to those concepts?

I’ll tell you who: a kid who saw The Kid Who Would Be King.

I took my tween son and his guy friends to preview this modern, humorous take on the story of King Arthur, and the consensus was “awesome.”

The set-up is familiar: the protagonist (Alex—played by Louis Ashbourne Serkis) and his best friend (Bedders—played by Dean Chaumoo) are bullied at school. Protagonist is troubled at home—in this case by the fact that he knows little about his dad except for the fact that his mom says he had “demons to battle.”

There is the whole hero’s journey: the arrival of the teacher, the call to adventure, the refusal, the acquiescence. The imagery of Excalibur stuck in a stone in an urban construction site was fun. As was a teenaged Merlin with a touch of Cosmo Kramer-like physical comedy.



The formulaic nature of the plot is acknowledged in the movie, with characters comparing themselves to Sam and Frodo as well as Harry Potter and his crew.

At the heart of the story is a quest embarked upon by Alex, Bedders, and their two bullies, Lance (Tom Taylor) and Kaye (Rhianna Dorris). The stakes are high as the fate of Britain lies with them—and Alex hopes to finally meet his father. Merlin instructs them in a secularized chivalric code which boils down to: be on the side of good, take care of your loved ones, and never give up.



I appreciated the diversity of the cast, the modern-day challenges the kids faced, and the fact that the evil force was feminine for once (King Arthur’s jealous sister Morgana, portrayed by Rebecca Ferguson). And Patrick Stewart, completely charming as the elder Merlin, brings needed gravitas to the character and the film.



What the kids liked: The magic performed by Merlin—a kind of snapping, clapping thing that looks odd until you witness its incredible power (though they complained that, in the times he flew about as an owl, he never used bird droppings on the enemy). The inevitable huge battle scene. The humor.

All-in-all, The Kid Who Would Be King was a perfect weekend romp with a group of savvy kids who needed something thoughtfully made to lure them away from Dan TDM for a couple of hours. 

Kimberly Robb Baker is a Chicago based writer, blogger, consultant, story teller, and mother. You can find her worky stuff here: ThisLittleBrand.com and her artsy fartsy stuff here:  DisruptiveMama.com.

On January 25th, the legend comes to life like never before

THE KID WHO WOULD BE KING 

opens in theaters everywhere on January 25, 2019! 

20th Century Fox has released the new trailer for THE KID WHO WOULD BE KING, which tells the story of Alex, who thinks he's just another nobody, until he stumbles upon the mythical Sword in the Stone, Excalibur. He must unite his friends and enemies and, together with the legendary wizard Merlin, take on the wicked enchantress Morgana to become the great leader he never dreamed he could be. The film is written and directed by Joe Cornish and stars Louis Ashbourne Serkis, Dean Chaumoo, Tom Taylor, Rhianna Dorris, Angus Imrie, with Rebecca Ferguson and Patrick Stewart.

Watch the new trailer HERE: 

THE KID WHO WOULD BE KING
Release: January 25, 2019
Written and Directed by: Joe Cornish
Produced by: Nira Park, Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner
Cast: Louis Ashbourne Serkis, Dean Chaumoo, Tom Taylor, Rhianna Dorris, Angus Imrie, with Rebecca Ferguson and Patrick Stewart

SYNOPSIS
Old school magic meets the modern world in the epic adventure THE KID WHO WOULD BE KING. Alex (Ashbourne Serkis) thinks he's just another nobody, until he stumbles upon the mythical Sword in the Stone, Excalibur. Now, he must unite his friends and enemies into a band of knights and, together with the legendary wizard Merlin (Stewart), take on the wicked enchantress Morgana (Ferguson). With the future at stake, Alex must become the great leader he never dreamed he could be.

THE KID WHO WOULD BE KING Official Channels

OFFICIAL WEBSITE: www.TheKidWhoWouldBeKing.com 
FACEBOOK: www.Facebook.com/KidWhoWouldBeKing  
TWITTER: www.Twitter.com/KidWouldBeKing  
INSTAGRAM: www.Instagram.com/KidWhoWouldBeKing  
HASHTAG: #KidWhoWouldBeKing

EXPO ALERT: Chicagoland’s Ultimate Outdoor Expo Returns to the Schaumburg Convention Center January 24-27, 2019

THE PROGRESSIVE® CHICAGOLAND FISHING, TRAVEL & OUTDOOR EXPO ANNOUNCES 2019 FEATURES AND SEMINAR LEADERS

Chicagoland’s Ultimate Outdoor Expo Makes a Splashy Return to the Schaumburg Convention Center January 24-27, 2019

Cast a line out to the Progressive Insurance Chicagoland Fishing, Travel & Outdoor Expo, taking place at the Schaumburg Convention Center, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive, this January 24-27 and reel in the best deals and seminars of the year. Featuring more than 100 travel-related exhibitors and a seminar lineup featuring the most the elite anglers in the industry, the Progressive Insurance Chicagoland Fishing, Travel & Outdoor Expo welcomes guests old and new to learn, see, shop and enjoy. From stocking up on the latest gear from major tackle manufacturers, to buying a new fishing boat or even booking a trip, the Expo is the ultimate one-stop outdoors experience.

Fun and Exciting Features at This Year’s Show:

·Lure Like the Pros at The Hawg Trough
The Hawg Trough is a massive, 5,000-gallon fish tank that houses monster Large Mouth Bass. Guests will have the chance to learn from the pros as they demonstrate the latest lures and how they behave in the water.

·Family Fun at the Fishing Simulator
Grab a rod and go fishing! This realistic fishing simulator allows the user to experience all the excitement of catching a fish through a large screen TV. The pull on the line even simulates the action of the fish!

·Musky Madness Friday, January 25
After a day of seminars featuring tips and tricks from some of the most notable Musky anglers, Angler Jim Saric will host a Q&A forum, giving guests the chance to win the ultimate Musky Tackle Package. The package will include a St. Croix Rod, Daiwa Reel and Stormr Strkyr Jacket.

·Respect and Revere the Great Outdoors
Get up close and personal with the birds of prey with the assistance of trained Raptor Handlers from Wings and Talons: Raptor Education, Stewardship and Conservation. Guests will have the opportunity to see and learn about animals such as the Great Horned Owl, Barred Owl, Eastern Screech Owl, Western Screech Owl, American Kestrel and two Red-tailed Hawks, as well as learn about preservation and conservation. 

Seminars Hosted by the Industry’s Most Elite:
In addition to hearing from Pro Favorites like Seth Feider and John Crews, guests should expect an exciting weekend full of engaging and informative seminars including:

·Thursday, January 24: Bass Fishing with Brandon Palaniuk
One of the most popular pros and 2017 Angler of the Year, Brandon Palaniuk is known for his success on the Bass fishing tournament circuit. He will be sharing his secrets at the show in two seminars: “Winter Bass Tactics” at 1:30 p.m. and “Tips for More Bass Fishing Success” at 5:30 p.m.

·Friday, January 25: Fish Like Hall-Of-Famer Joe Bucher
National Freshwater Fish Hall of Fame Inductee Joe Bucher is one of the most highly regarded multispecies authorities in the outdoor trade. Having founded Musky Hunter Magazine and pioneered many of the Musky hunting techniques that have since been adopted by many, Joe will be hosting “Overlooked Tricks That Trigger Bigger Fish Strikes!” at 4:00 p.m.

·Saturday, January 26: Enjoy the Love of the Sport with “Z”
One of the most recognizable faces in outdoor television today, Mark Zona is the current host of “Zona’s Awesome Fishing Show” on the Outdoor Channel, which encourages outdoorsman to have fun with fishing. Zona will be sharing his passion and approach to the sport in his seminar “In Pursuit of Monster Smallies” at 1:30 p.m.

·Sunday, January 27: Bassmaster Junior National Champion Carter Wijangco
Naperville native Carter Wijangco has been fishing since he was in Kindergarten. Four years into the tournament circuit, he earned 1stplace in the Bassmaster Junior National Championships in 2017. Speaking to novice and aspiring anglers, he will host “Angling for All Ages” at 1:00 p.m. during the show’s “family day”.

Fast Facts
WHEN: The Progressive® Insurance Chicagoland Fishing, Travel & Outdoor Expo will be open Thursday-Sunday, January 24-27, 2019.  Show hours are as follows: 12 p.m. - 8 p.m. Thursday, January 24, and Friday, January 25; 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., Saturday, January 26; and 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday, January 27.

TICKETS:  Tickets are $13 for adults and $3 for children ages 6 - 11. Tickets to the show can be purchased here.

MORE INFO: For more information on the Progressive® Insurance Chicagoland Fishing, Travel & Outdoor Expo, visit:www.sportshows.com/chicago or connect on Facebook, or Twitter. #CHIFishShow2019

WIN A SLIME BASH CHICAGO Family 4 Pack of Two-Day General Admission Tickets ($140 Value) March 30-31 at Pheasant Run Resort

ChiIL Mama's Chi, IL Picks List:

TEEN SLIME GLUE ENTREPRENEUR, MADDIE RAE PRESENTS

SLIME BASH CHICAGO, THE WORLD’S LARGEST SLIME CONVENTION!

 

Pheasant Run Resort, St. Charles, IL | March 30-31

 Saturday: 10-4PM | Sunday: 9-3PM

One of ChiIL Mama's lucky readers will WIN 4 Two-Day General Admission Tickets 

($140 Value). Enter below.

Pheasant Run Resort is a local favorite of ours here at ChiIL Mama, for family friendly fun. They've hosted us in the past for a blogger weekend where we enjoyed their multiple pools, driving range and Escape Room fun. We're pleased to partner up with them on a promotion once again. The last weekend in March there will be even more family fun happening at Pheasant Run Resort, with Slime Bash Chicago! The World’s Largest Slime Convention. Check it out. 

WHAT:
Slime Bash Chicago!  The World’s Largest Slime Convention is Chicago Bound! Thousands of ticket holders are attending this 2-day event! Chicago is the 4th Slime Bash Team Maddie Rae has held, with the last events attracting over 12,000 attendees! In addition to celebrities and influential business entrepreneurs, the event continues to attract international ticket holders from as far away as India, Australia, Israel, Spain, Educador, and Brazil.
While the event was created as an event to celebrate “all things slime,” it has turned into a powerful display of entrepreneurial spirit among the tween, largely female demographic.

Event Features:
VIP Section: Meet, take pictures with and purchase slime & merch from 30 of the hottest slime influencers on Instagram and YouTube all in one place

Slimer Alley: Meet, purchase and trade slime with nearly 50 of the best up and coming slimers

Make Your Own Slime Pits: Purchase tokens to make professional slime on-site
Trading Arena: Ticket holders can trade slime and other goodies with other attendees and participants

Live Slime Demo’s, Q&A sessions, Trivia, and Slime Giveaways on stage from VIPs throughout the day on Saturday & Sunday

Slime Making Competition: Enter your slime to win big prizes and trophies.
Slime Acrobatics Contest: Show off your slime flipping and other tricks to win trophies and prizes.

Slime Speed Making Pits:  Continuous speed slime making speed rounds for prizes

Enjoy our three Selfie Booths with fun slime props
Free Maddie Rae Tattoo and Nail Stations
Make your mark on our Great Wall of Slime! Add your own slime to a giant wall of slime- the outcome is a beautiful “slime painting!”
Maddie Rae’s “Pop Up Shop:” purchase newly released slime products and a Limited Edition, VIP Commemorative Poster!

Mega Bash VIP After Hour Party, Saturday, 7-9pm:
Exclusive entry for Mega Bash ticket holders only
Meet Maddie Rae and  other VIPS up close & personal
DJ dance party, super fun games, giveaways and variety of lite bites & beverages

WHEN: Saturday, March 30th, 9am early entry for Mega Bash Ticket Holders, General admission 10-4; Sunday, March 31st, 9am-3pm

WHERE: Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main Street, St. Charles, IL 60174

TO PURCHASE TICKETS:  Tickets on sale now at slimebash.com!



Mega Bash Ticket (*Selling FAST): $85, Two-day pass, featuring 1 Hour early admission on Saturday, plus entry to an after-hours VIP party on Saturday night from 7-9pm.

Two-Day General Admission Ticket: $35

Single Day Saturday Ticket: $25

Single Day Sunday Ticket: $20

One of ChiIL Mama's lucky readers will WIN a Family 4 Pack of Two-Day 

General Admission Tickets 

($140 Value). 

Good March 30-31 at Pheasant Run Resort

ENTER HERE - SLIME BASH CHICAGO GIVEAWAY

Disclosure: We have been provided with complimentary tickets for our giveaway. As always, all opinions are our own.

WIN 4 Tickets To Opening Night of Disney On Ice presents Mickey's Search Party January 24th at Allstate Arena

Disney on Ice presents Mickey's Search Party at Allstate Arena, Jan. 24-27 and Feb. 7-10; United Center, Jan. 30 to Feb. 2

Enter Below for your chance to WIN a Family 4 Pack of Tickets

One of ChiIL Mama's lucky readers will WIN 4 Tickets To Opening Night of Disney On Ice presents Mickey's Search Party Thursday, January 24th at Allstate Arena. Enter through midnight Monday, January 21st.

One of my fabulous freelancers, Kim, will be out with her kids to review on opening night as well, so check back with ChiIL Mama shortly after. 

Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party is bringing guests closer to the magic than ever before through dynamic and immersive moments that take place on the ice, in the air and in the seats. 

The multi-week extravaganza opens Thursday, Jan. 24 at the Allstate Arena and moves to the United Center on Wednesday, Jan. 30, before returning to the Allstate Arena for a final week on Thursday, Feb. 7. Get your tickets and more show information HERE.

Beautifully told through artistic skating, Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party brings together sensational ice skaters and special effects that will take you on a participatory and magical adventure with your favorite Disney pals. Embark on a quest with Mickey Mouse and friends as they follow Captain Hook’s treasure map for clues to find Tinker Bell, travel to wintry Arendelle and sing along with Queen Elsa as she builds her ice palace, sail away with Moana on her voyage across the ocean and bravely encounter the fiery wrath of Te Ka, and much more. Bring your family together on this special journey and create unforgettable memories to last a lifetime!

Disney On Ice Brings You Closer to the Disney Magic Than Ever Before!

Join Mickey Mouse and his friends at Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party, a brand-new adventure filled with world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics and unexpected stunts! Help them follow Captain Hook’s treasure map and look for clues in the search for Tinker Bell in immersive, fantastic worlds. Explore the colorful spirit realm of Coco in Miguel’s Disney On Ice debut, sail away with Moana as she bravely saves her island, see Belle in the sky above you as the enchanted chandelier comes to life, and sing-along with Elsa in the icy world of Frozen.

Make memories with your whole family during Aladdin, Toy Story and The Little Mermaid as the search party becomes an all-out magical celebration on the ice, in the air, and all around!

 

One of ChiIL Mama's lucky readers will WIN 4 Tickets To Opening Night of Disney On Ice presents Mickey's Search Party Thursday, January 24th at Allstate Arena. Enter through midnight Monday, January 21st.

  ENTER HERE 

Disclosure: ChiIL Mama's been partnering up with Disney on Ice for years. They have provided complimentary tickets for our giveaway and for review purposes. As always, all opinions are our own.

Writers Theatre opens the 2019 tour of The MLK Project: The Fight for Civil Rights With FREE MLK Day Chicago Performance at the Chicago History Museum

Writers Theatre opens the 2019 tour of

The MLK Project: The Fight for Civil Rights

By Yolanda Androzzo

Directed by Tasia A. Jones

Featuring Angela Alise

Free performance at the Chicago History Museum

on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

January 21, 2019

10:30am

Writers Theatre opens its 13th annual tour of The MLK Project: The Fight for Civil Rights, written by Yolanda Androzzo, directed by Tasia A. Jones and featuring Angela Alise. A special Martin Luther King, Jr. Day public performance will take place at 10:30am on January 21 at the Chicago History Museum, 1601 N Clark Street in Chicago. The kickoff event also includes a post-show community discussion. The event is free and open to the public, and audience members will also receive free museum admission for the remainder of the day.

Weaving together poetry, hip hop and history, The MLK Project: The Fight for Civil Rights is a one-woman show that follows Chicago student Alaya’s personal transformation through studying the Civil Rights Movement. Alaya uses her fists as an outlet for anger. After interviewing local heroes of the Movement, she discovers she can put “anger into action” and that her power is in her voice and her hip hop, not violence.

Seen by more than 77,000 students, this dynamic, cross-cultural, multi-media performance interlaces personal interviews of Chicago-based Civil Rights activists, featuring both celebrated and unsung heroes of the Movement, such as Reverend Samuel “Billy” Kyles, Founder of the DuSable Museum of African American History Dr. Margaret Taylor Goss Burroughs, Reverend Jesse Jackson and Puerto Rican poet and activist David Hernandez, among others. 

The 2019 production will tour to more than 35 venues during its 6-week run, including  Chicago Public Schools, community centers, and juvenile detention centers.  All performances on the tour include a post-show discussion and a study guide with wrap-around curriculum.

Writers Theatre will also feature two special onsite performance of The MLK Project on Saturday, February 2nd, 2019 at 4:00pm and 7:00pm. Tickets for this performance are $20 for adults and $10 for students and may be purchased by calling the WT Box Office at 847-242-6000 or https://www.writerstheatre.org/the-mlk-project-the-fight-for-civil-rights.

Dates: Monday, January 21, 10:30am – Chicago History Museum (Free)
Saturday, February 2nd, 4:00pm & 7:00pm – WT’s Gillian Theatre   (Paid: $20 adults; $10 students)

The 2019 tour of The MLK Project is made possible in part by support from Allstate, Major Corporate Sponsor.  Additional supporters of The MLK Project and Writers Theatre’s education programs in 2019 include: The Crown Family, Northern Trust Charitable Trust, Paul M. Angell Family Foundation, Petersen Aluminum Corporation, Polk Bros. Foundation, Dr. Scholl Foundation, and The Seabury Foundation.

Writers Theatre Education Programs are aimed at exploring text, nurturing the creativity of young people and instilling appreciation of the arts for future generations. Through comprehensive programming in schools, on-site and through community-based initiatives, WT Education’s curriculum is designed to emphasize collaboration, cultivate self-expression, encourage imaginative inquiry and promote civic responsibility and social justice.

Additional Writers Theatre’s Education Programs include:

Write On! a flexible artist-in-residence program customized for each school and group of students. Write On! pairs teaching artists with schools and community organizations in dynamic explorations of performance and text with a focus on encouraging young people to find their creative voices.  Writers Theatre has provided after-school drama programs, in-depth Shakespeare or mythology workshops, ethnographic performance and dramaturgy units, and poetry and writing classes in collaboration with CPS schools, community organizations and juvenile detention centers.

The Novel Series, a cutting-edge theatre and literary arts curriculum designed to allow students to explore literature and the art of bringing text to life. Under the guidance of a Writers Theatre Teaching Artist, students engage in a layered study of a book and enter a rigorous artistic process that merges writing, discussion, and vocabulary with arts-integrated theatre projects. Residencies culminate in a final performance of student-created work as students use voice, body, and imagination to make new and exciting connections to the text.

ACTIVATE is Writers Theatre’s wraparound residency designed to deepen students’ engagement with the art on our stages. Students and teachers involved in ACTIVATE attend an exclusive student-only matinee performance of a play in our season, prepare for and extend their experience at the theatre through in-school pre and post-performance participatory workshops designed to investigate contextual information and the major themes in the play, and participate in a post-show discussion with WT artists and educators.

Writers Theatre Youth Council, an artistic leadership advisory board for motivated, passionate high school students interested in hands-on, in-depth exposure to arts administration. Council members get behind-the-scenes access to Writers Theatre productions, artists, and programs, participate in play readings and artistic discussion groups, host youth nights at the theatre, and develop artistic leadership skills. Youth Council members attend after-school meetings, performances at the theatre, and workshops. Youth Council members represent a valued voice in theatre operations.

Writers also began offering Onsite Theatre Classes for young people in Fall 2017. Classes each session will mirror WT’s mission of the word and the artist with creative themes that highlight each of these theatrical tenants created specifically for young artists at the heart of the process. Held in our state-of-the-art theatre center, these customized classes are the perfect way to introduce children to the arts through creative and active collaboration.


All of Writers Theatre’s education programs are aligned with state and national Common Core standards. To learn more visit www.writerstheatre.org/education.

ABOUT WRITERS THEATRE
For 25 years, Writers Theatre has captivated Chicagoland audiences with inventive interpretations of classic work, a bold approach to contemporary theatre and a dedication to creating the most intimate theatrical experience possible.

Under the artistic leadership of Michael Halberstam and the executive leadership of Kathryn M. Lipuma, Writers Theatre has grown to become a major Chicagoland cultural destination with a national reputation for excellence, being called the top regional theatre in the nation by The Wall Street Journal. The company, which plays to a sold-out and discerning audience of more than 60,000 patrons each season, has garnered critical praise for the consistent high quality and intimacy of its artistry—providing the finest interpretations of both classic and contemporary theatre in its two intensely intimate venues. 

In February 2016, Writers Theatre opened a new, state-of-the-art facility. This established the company's first permanent home—a new theatre center in downtown Glencoe, designed by the award-winning, internationally renowned Studio Gang Architects, led by Founder and Design Principal Jeanne Gang, FAIA, in collaboration with Theatre Consultant Auerbach Pollock Friedlander. The new facility has allowed the Theatre to continue to grow to accommodate its audience, while maintaining its trademark intimacy. The new facility resonates with and complements the Theatre’s neighboring Glencoe community, adding tremendous value to Chicagoland and helping to establish the North Shore as a premier cultural destination.

Find Writers Theatre on Facebook at Facebook.com/WritersTheatre, follow @WritersTheatre on Twitter or @Writers_Theatre on Instagram. For more information, visit www.writerstheatre.org.

OPENING: ALL CHILDISH THINGS VIA FIRST FOLIO THEATRE January 23 through February 24

ChiIL Live Shows on our radar

FIRST FOLIO THEATRE PRESENTS COMEDY

ALL CHILDISH THINGS

From January 23 through February 24

For its first performance in 2019, First Folio Theatre (Mayslake Peabody Estate, 31st St. & Rt. 83.) is thrilled to present Joseph Zettelmaier’s contemporary comedy heist ALL CHILDISH THINGS, previewing January 23-25, opening January 26 and running through February 24, 2019. “Witty, suspenseful, and wonderfully revealing about friendship,” according to The Cincinnati Enquirer, ALL CHILDISH THINGS gives audiences the chance to laugh into the New Year, reminisce on their childhood and experience the carefree and clumsy antics of an easy-to-love cohort of friends.

I'll be out to review for ChiILMama.com at the press opening, January 26th, so check back soon. Since I head a pop culture lovin' family, I'm particularly interested in checking out ALL CHILDISH THINGS.

From the playwright who wrote The Gravedigger, Dr. Seward’s Dracula and The Man-Beast comes a comedy heist of sorts where Star Wars meets Ocean’s 11. In ALL CHILDISH THINGS, a group of life-long friends and Star Wars fans come up with the perfect caper: break into the Kenner warehouse and steal a treasure trove of Star Wars memorabilia. Everything starts off as smoothly as a Jedi mind trick until the Dark Side starts to beckon. Will divided loyalties and greed lead their friendship to implode like the Death Star or will the Force be with them?

ALL CHILDISH THINGS, written by Joseph Zettelmaier and directed by Melanie Keller, features Eric Eilersen as Dave, Stephanie Shum as Kendra, Bobby Richards as Max, Alberto Mendoza as Carter and First Folio Artistic Associate Joe Foust in the role of The Big Man. The artistic team includes Scenic Design by eight-time Jeff Nominee Angela Weber Miller, Sound Design by four-time Jeff Award Winner Christopher Kriz, Costume Design by four-time Jeff Nominee Rachel Lambert, Co-Props Design by two-time Jeff Nominee Cassy Schillo and Wendy Huber, Violence Design by Joe Foust, and Lighting Design by Julie Mack, with Stage Manager Colleen Layton assisted by Wallace Craig. Understudies include Emma Jo Boyden, Nick Caesar, and Patrick TJ Kelly.

All performances of ALL CHILDISH THINGS will take place at the Mayslake Peabody Estate, located at 1717 31st St., off Rt. 83, in Oak Brook. First Folio is easily accessible from the East-West Tollway (I-88) or the Stevenson Expressway (I-55). Free parking is available on the grounds. Performance times are as follows: Wednesdays at 8 p.m., Thursdays at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m. Saturdays at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Preview tickets are $25. Regular priced tickets are $34 Wednesdays and Thursdays (seniors and students are $29) and $44 on Fridays through Sundays (seniors and students are $39). Season subscriptions and individual tickets may be purchased by calling the box office at 630.986.8067 or online at www.firstfolio.org

OPENING: Nina Simone: Four Women at Northlight Theatre Through March 2, 2019

ChiIL Live Shows on our radar

Northlight Theatre 

continues its 2018-19 season with

Nina Simone: Four Women

Written by Christina Ham

Directed by Kenneth L. Roberson

Featuring Melanie Brezill, Sydney Charles, 

Deanna Reed-Foster, Ariel Richardson, and Daniel Riley

January 24 – March 2, 2019

I'll be out for the press opening February 1, so check back soon for my full review. I'm eager to catch Nina Simone: Four Women. It's not only an ode to the power of music and women in the fight for civil rights, but a still too timely reminder that Black Lives Matter and liberty and justice for all have not been achieved yet. 

Northlight Theatre, under the direction of Artistic Director BJ Jones and Executive Director Timothy J. Evans, continues its 2018-19 season with Nina Simone: Four Women, written by Christina Ham and directed by Kenneth L. Roberson. Nina Simone: Four Women runs January 24 – March 2, 2019 at Northlight Theatre, 9501 Skokie Blvd in Skokie. 

Nina Simone’s song "Four Women" was released as part of her 1966 album Wild Is the Wind. It tells the story of four different African American women, each representing an African-American stereotype in society.

In the aftermath of 1963’s 16th Street Baptist Church bombing, Nina Simone rocked the nation with “Four Women,” her tribute in song to the four little girls lost in the tragedy. Powerful anthems such as “Mississippi Goddam,” “Old Jim Crow,” and “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” followed, fueling the Civil Rights movement and transforming her public persona from songstress to activist. Celebrate Ms. Simone’s lasting legacy in this provocative and personal musical journey. 

Artistic Director BJ Jones comments, “Nina Simone’s musical genius is undeniable, and her leadership in the Civil Rights Movement stems from her musical articulation of its principles and goals. Northlight audiences can expect to learn about Simone’s extraordinary talent and her discovery of her activist voice, which syncs with this moment in the Black Lives Matter movement. It also reveals how important women were in the Civil Rights Movement and how little credit they were given historically.”

The cast of Nina Simone: Four Women includes Melanie Brezill (Sweet Thing), Sydney Charles (Nina Simone), Deanna Reed-Foster (Sarah), Ariel Richardson (Sephronia), and Daniel Riley (Sam Waymon).  

The creative team includes Christopher Rhoton (set design), Michael Alan Stein (costume design), Lee Fiskness (lighting design) and Lindsay Jones (sound design). The stage manager is Rita Vreeland and the dramaturg is Lauren Shouse.

Northlight's production of Nina Simone: Four Women is supported in part by Alan Zunamon and Nancy Cunniff. The 2018-19 Season is supported by BMO Harris and ComEd, An Exelon Company.

Nina Simone: Four Women premiered at Park Square Theatre in St. Paul, MN in March 2016. 

ABOUT THE ARTISTS
Christina Ham (Playwright) has had plays developed and produced both nationally and internationally with the Kennedy Center, Arena Stage, Center Theater Group, The Guthrie Theater, Ensemble Studio Theatre, The Goodman Theatre, Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston, Tony Award winning producer Arielle Tepper Madover off-Broadway at Theater Row, and the Tokyo International Arts Festival among many others. Christina is a two-time recipient of a McKnight Fellowship in Playwriting and a Jerome Fellowship from the Playwrights’ Center in Minneapolis, the Marianne Murphy Women & Philanthropy Award in Playwriting, a MacDowell Colony Artist Residency, and a previous nominee for Center Theater Group’s Richard E. Sherwood Award for Distinguished Emerging Theater Artist. She has received commissions from the Kennedy Center, The Guthrie Theater, and Ensemble Studio Theatre/Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, among many others. Her plays are published by Dramatic Publishing, Heinemann, PlayScripts, Inc., Smith and Kraus, and Oberon Books. She is a graduate of the University of Southern California and holds an MFA in Playwriting from The UCLA School of Theater, Film, and Television where she was a Graduate Opportunity Fellow.

Director Kenneth L. Roberson is making his Northlight debut, as is the entire cast including Melanie Brezill (Sweet Thing), Sydney Charles (Nina Simone), Deanna Reed-Foster (Sarah), Ariel Richardson (Sephronia), and Daniel Riley (Sam Waymon).  

Kenneth L. Roberson (Director) has directed Ethel (Alliance Theatre and Alabama Shakespeare Festival); Crowns, Lady Day at the Emerson Bar and Grill (Arena Stage); Once on This Island (Baltimore Center Stage); Wycliffe Gordon’s Jazz a La Carte (Harlem Jazz Shrines Festival); Frog Kiss (Virginia Stage); Urinetown, Into The Woods and Pippin (Indiana University). Broadway and Off-Broadway choreography credits include: Avenue Q (Tony Award Best Musical), All Shook Up, Purlie, Colman Domingo’s A Boy and His Soul, John Lequizamo’s Freak, Seven Guitars and The Piano Lesson. TV and Film choreography credits include: HBO’s Lackawanna Blues, Preaching to the Choir, and John Lequizamo’s House of Buggin’ (Emmy nomination outstanding choreography). Also a performance artist, his one man shows have played New York Public Theatre, Joe’s Pub the Triad Theatre, and Baltimore Center Stage. A graduate of the University of Georgia, he is currently Professor of Practice at Indiana University in the Theatre, Drama and Contemporary Dance Department.

Melanie Brezill (Sweet Thing) is making her Northlight debut. Broadway and National Tours include The Book of Mormon and Mamma Mia!. Regional credits include: Little Shop of Horrors, Aida (Drury Lane); Last Stop on Market Street, My Wonderful Birthday Suit, and The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (Chicago Children’s Theatre); Man In the Ring, Caroline, Or Change (Court); A Christmas Carol, Crowns (Goodman); The MLK Project (Writers); Yeast Nation (American Theater Company); Living Green (Victory Gardens); Once On This Island (Porchlight). TV Credits include: Empire. Next up: For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf at Court Theatre. 

Sydney Charles (Nina Simone) is an award-winning actress hailing from Chicago, who committed her life to acting after years in Corporate America. Select Chicago credits include: Flyin West (American Blues), Father Comes Home From the Wars (Goodman), Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner (Court), Insurrection: Holding History (Stage Left), Lottery Day (Goodman, New Stages), three editions of The Fly Honey Show (The Inconvenience), Spamilton Chicago (Royal George), An Octoroon (Definition Theatre), The Wiz (Kokandy), Prowess (Jackalope), and Dessa Rose (Bailiwick Chicago). Her directing debut was with Wildclaw Theatre with their yearly Deathscribe Festival of Horror Plays, and she just served as Associate Director for The Shipment at Red Tape Theatre. TV/Web credits include: The Haven, The T, and Shameless (Showtime). She is proud to be an artistic associate with Firebrand Theater – the recently formed feminist musical theater company. 

Deanna Reed-Foster (Sarah) is an Emmy Award and Jeff Award winning actress who is making her Northlight Theatre debut.  She was last seen in SideShow Theatre’s HeLa. She has worked with many theaters in the Chicago area including Strawdog, Steppenwolf, Black Ensemble, Pulse Theatre, Court, Shattered Globe (ensemble member) and The New Colony (Ensemble Member). Deanna can be seen in a recurring role on NBC’s Chicago Fire and in several films including Widows, Last Flag Flying, Southside With You, and Roll Bounce.

Ariel Richardson (Sephronia) is making her Northlight Theatre debut. An alum of Oklahoma City University, Ariel received her BFA in Acting. She was most recently seen in Oak Park Festival Theatre’s production of African Company Presents Richard III. Other theatre credits include Southern Gothic (Windy City Playhouse) and An Octoroon (Definition Theatre Company). Her television credits include Empire (FOX Television Network) and The CHI (Showtime).

Daniel Riley (Sam Waymon/Music Director) is making his Northlight debut. Dan was last seen in American Blues Theater’s production of Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story (Jeff Award, Best Ensemble and Best Musical–Midsize). He has worked in theatre and cabaret with numerous groups in and around Chicago, most recently Paramount Theatre, Davenport’s Piano Bar, and the Ravinia Festival. Dan also coaches and accompanies soloists and choirs of all ages in many styles of music. He regularly sings at Holy Name Cathedral and with the Lakeside Singers, and can be seen Sunday mornings on WGN-TV singing for Mercy Home for Boys and Girls. 

The Box Office is located at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Boulevard, in Skokie. Box Office hours are Monday-Friday 10:00am-5:00pm, and Saturdays 12:00pm-5:00pm. On performance days, the box office hours are extended through showtime. The Box Office is closed on Sundays, except on performance days when it is open two hours prior to showtime.

Curtain times are: Tuesdays: 7:30pm (January 29 only); Wednesdays: 1:00pm (except February 20); and 7:30pm; Thursdays: 7:30pm; Fridays: 8:00pm; Saturdays: 2:30pm (except January 26); and 8:00pm; and Sundays: 2:30pm; and 7:00pm (January 27 and February 24 only).

Backstage with BJ: Nina Simone: Four Women
Friday, January 18 at noon 
at Northlight Theatre 

Backstage with BJ is a mid-day discussion with Artistic Director BJ Jones, featuring special guest artists, actors, directors and designers, offering behind-the-scenes insight into each production while it is still in rehearsal. Backstage with BJ for Nina Simone: Four Women will last approximately one hour. The event is free, but reservations are required. Visit https://northlight.org/events/backstage-with-bj/ to reserve your spot. 

Arts & Activism: From Nina Simon to Steve Schapiro
Wednesday, February 13 at 7:00 pm
Free and Open to the Public
at Skokie Public Library
5215 Oakton St, Skokie

A collaboration from the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center and Northlight Theatre, learn about the intersection of art and social activism through a discussion of the music of Nina Simone and the photography of Steve Schapiro.  Singer Nina Simone was known for her music and activism. Photographer Steve Schapiro tells stories of activism through his bold, documentary images. Artists from Northlight Theatre’s upcoming show Nina Simone: Four Women, and experts on the work of Steve Schapiro will discuss how Schapiro and Simone’s work defied norms in the civil rights movement and beyond. Activists and Icons: The Photographs of Steve Shapiro is currently on display at the Illinois Holocaust Museum. 

Post Show Discussions will be held after the following performances:
January 29, February 14 and 21 following the evening performances and January 27, February 6, 10, and 13 following the matinee.

An Open Captioning performance will be held on Saturday, February 23 at 2:30pm.

Northlight Theatre aspires to promote change of perspective and encourage compassion by exploring the depth of our humanity across a bold spectrum of theatrical experiences, reflecting our community to the world and the world to our community. 

Now in its 44th season, the organization has mounted over 200 productions, including nearly 40 world premieres. Northlight has earned 207 Joseph Jefferson Award nominations and 36 Awards, as well as ten Edgerton Foundation for New Play Awards. As one of the area’s premier theatre companies, Northlight is a regional magnet for critical and professional acclaim, as well as talent of the highest quality. 

Northlight is supported in part by generous contributions from Allstate Insurance; the Paul M. Angell Family Foundation; Robert & Isabelle Bass Foundation; BMO Harris Bank; Henrietta Lange Burk Fund; The Elizabeth F. Cheney Foundation; The Chicago Community Trust; ComEd, An Exelon Company; The Davee Foundation; Edgerton Foundation for New American Plays Award; Evanston Community Foundation; Full Circle Foundation; Illinois Arts Council, a state agency; Kirkland & Ellis Foundation; The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation; Melvoin Award for Playwriting; Modestus Bauer Foundation; National Endowment for the Arts; Niles Township; The Offield Family Foundation; The Pauls Foundation; Room & Board; Sanborn Family Foundation; Dr. Scholl Foundation; The Shubert Foundation, Inc.; The Harold and Mimi Steinberg Charitable Trust; The Sullivan Family Foundation; and Tom Stringer Design Partners.

Born on February 21, 1933, in Tryon, North Carolina, Nina Simone studied classical piano at the Juilliard School in New York City, but left early when she ran out of money. Performing in night clubs, she turned her interest to jazz, blues and folk music and released her first album in 1957, scoring a Top 20 hit with the track "I Loves You Porgy." In the ‘60s, Simone expanded her repertory in exemplary fashion while becoming identified as a leading voice of the Civil Rights Movement. She later lived abroad and experienced major mental health and financial issues, though she enjoyed a career resurgence in the 1980s. Simone died in France on April 21, 2003.

Dates: Previews: January 24 – 31, 2019
Press Opening: Friday, February 1, 2019 at 8pm 
Regular run: February 2 – March 2, 2019

Schedule: 
Tuesdays: 7:30pm (January 29 only)

Wednesdays: 1:00pm (except February 20); and 7:30pm
Thursdays: 7:30pm 
Fridays: 8:00pm
Saturdays: 2:30pm (except January 26); and 8:00pm
Sundays: 2:30pm; and 7:00pm (January 27 and February 24 only)

Location:
Northlight Theatre is located at the North Shore
Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd,
Skokie

Tickets:
Previews: $30-$60

Regular run: $30-$88
Student tickets are $15, any performance 
(subject to availability)

Box Office:
The Box Office is located at 9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie.
847.673.6300; northlight.org