Let It Show, Let It Show, Let It Show!

Janelle Rominski, NBC Chicago Street Team

Chicago is an amazing city for many shows to shine. Whether it is a pre-Broadway production, post-Broadway tour or a one night only concert – this city has many wonderful options to choose from.

With Guy Laliberté, Founder and CEO of Cirque du Soleil

Cirque du Soleil’s Banana Shpeel: A New Twist on Vaudeville is previewing at the Chicago Theatre until January 3, 2010 before it embarks on a new journey to Broadway in early February. The show has mixed reviews. It’s heavy on comedy and choreography, blending slapstick with tap and hip-hop dance forms. The show’s plot revolves around a producer named Schmelky who is trying to put together a variety show. This production is very different than other Cirque du Soleil shows. There aren’t as many aerialists, contortionists, etc. Come in with an open mind.

Another show that’s set to appear on Broadway is The Addams Family Musical, currently playing at the Ford Center/Oriental Theatre until January 10, 2010. Veteran actors Nathan Lane (Gomez) and Bebe Neuwirth (Morticia) star in this unique musical. The Addams Family musical takes place as Wednesday Addams is older and the show’s two hot topics were love and sex. Lane was amazing portraying Gomez and Neuwirth did a decent job as Morticia.

With Zachary James who plays Lurch and Kevin Chamberlin who plays Uncle Fester in The Addams Family Musical

In an interview, The Addams Family musical actors Zachary James (Lurch) and Kevin Chamberlin (Uncle Fester) noted the show has been cut down 30-minutes from the original time. It will be interesting to see what the show is like once it graces the Broadway stage.

The New Mel Brooks Musical, Young Frankenstein, just wrapped up their tour in Chicago at the Cadillac Palace Theatre last night. The production began on Broadway where 484 shows were performed. The musical features Desperate Housewives guest actor, Roger Bart, as Dr. Frankenstein. The actors in Young Frankenstein were brilliant and notable songs included “Puttin’ On The Ritz”, “Transylvania Mania” and “He Vas My Boyfriend”.

With Kleetus, Guy Fieri's friend and sous chef

The Guy Fieri Road Show stopped for an evening of fun at the Rosemont Theatre. Fieri is known for hosting Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives on the Food Network. He says the show “is food, rock n’ roll and everything they won’t let me do on TV!”

The opener for Fieri was Australian native and World Champion Flair Bartender, Hayden “Woody” Wood. Wood was dancing, clapping and twirling bottles during his presentation. He made apple spice martinis, pear margaritas and eggnog.

Once Fieri took the stage, he got the audience dancing to good ol’ rock music. A DJ was supplying all the tunes while Fieri shared his cooking stories, Thanksgiving turkey mishaps and answering questions from the crowd. Fieri also had a karaoke contest and pulled members of the audience up on stage to sing for prizes.

Coming soon to Chicago theatres near you are the following shows: In The Heights (which opens tomorrow), The 101 Dalmations Musical, Mama Mia!, Annie, Dreamgirls, Billy Elliot The Musical and more!

For ticket information, visit www.Ticketmaster.com or www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Want more Rominski reads? Read more right HERE!

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Stand Up Against Cancer Benefiting Imerman Angels

JenChicago, NBC Chicago Street Team

There’s something funny going on in River North on Tuesday, October 20^th. Sarah Vargo of Maven and Fred Farris of Key Management have teamed up with The Joynt to host Stand Up Against Cancer which benefits local charity Imerman Angels. The party and the awareness are going down at 650 N. Dearborn (@ Erie) and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate all the good things that are happening under Johnny Imerman’s inspiration!

The show starts at 6:30 and features a laundry list of talented comedians along with headliner Kira Soltanovich, from Girls Behaving Badly and The Phony Phone Booth on The Jay Leno Show. Have you seen this bit? It’s hilarious! What WON’T people do for a free picture?!?! You can find the clips here or check it out in this week’s edition of The SAUCE, hosted by Yours Truly, below. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door with limited seating.

*PRESS RELEASE*

**Hugs and Kisses from JenChicago.com!

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Serenaded by Michael Buble

Cara Carriveau, NBC Chicago Street Team

Michael Buble has sold 22,000,000 albums (so far) worldwide. His singing voice is impeccable.  His songs capture romance, heartache, love and every other emotion that goes along with any relationship you’ve ever been in. His song “Everything” is a very popular first-dance song at weddings. And his live performances are unreal. No wonder he’s got millions of fans worldwide chomping at the bit, anticipating the release of his third album “Crazy Love”. The album was initially supposed to be released on October 13, but due to fan demand the album will now be released 4 days prior (October 9). You can pre-order it now.

I had the priveledge of being the very first radio personality in the USA to speak to Michael Buble as he begins his mass promo for his new album.  An even bigger honor was having him serenade me…I still have the goosebumps!

Listen to our conversation in Cara’s Connection at the WTMX website:

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Pizzas 4 Patriots Celebration Concert

Cara Carriveau, NBC Chicago Street Team

“Pizza’s 4 Patriots” is such a cool concept.  Literally, giving those who serve our country a slice of home.  Go here to find out more about what they do – and go to Durty Nellie’s on October 24th to see a great show while supporting the cause.  Details below:

Here’s a blast-from-the-past interview with Rik Emmett:

Here’s a blast-from-the-past interview with Kevin Chalfant:

Here’s a blast-from-the-past interview with Ronnie Platt:

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“Speed-Dating:The Movie”

Dave Leonard, NBC5 Street Team, (Video)
I recently got to talk to Vanessa Simmons ( of MTV’s “Run’s House”, “Daddy’s Girls”), Wesley Jonathan (“What I Like About You”, “Roll Bounce”) and producers La Monde Byrd and native Chicagoan, Mekita Faiye (who also plays one of the lead characters) about their hilarious new comedy “Speed-Dating: The Movie” which will be released in the coming months. Check out what they had to say…

DL: Tell us about the “SPEED-DATING” movie and the great ensemble cast you’ve put together…

MEKITA: Oh wow, “SPEED-DATING” will be the must-see movie of 2010! It’s about these three guys who come up with this scheme that involves speed dating to raise money for their club and to meet women. It’s kind of like “Wedding Crashers” and it takes you on a wonderful journey with a lot of laughs along the way. The cast includes Wesley Jonathan, Chico Benymon who many know from the show “Half & Half”, Leonard Robinson of MTV’s “Wild’n’Out”…we have Vanessa Simmons, of course, from “Run’s House”, Emmy award winner Chris Elliott, Holly Robinson-Peete, Clint Howard (brother of Ron Howard) who was recently in “Night At The Museum 2”, rapper Chingy, Kelly Perrine…the list goes on and on.

DL: Where did you come up with the concept for the film?

LA MONDE: The writer and director Joseph Elmore originally came up with the idea and from there we took it, shaped it, developed it a bit and then the actors breathed life into it.

DL: Wesley, you play the lead character “TOO COOL” in this film and your career spans decades in film and television, what attracted you to this project?

WESLEY: I just read the script and it was funny to me. I originally wasn’t the first choice to play “Too Cool”, but time had passed and the project sort of came back around to me and I also found out that Chico and some my partners from the business were in it so that was an added plus because I like working with my friends.

DL: Vanessa, we got to see on the “Daddy’s Girls” show that you prepared for your role by going on an actual speed dating event. What was that experience like?

VANESSA: Oh man, I had a lot of fun! I like a lot of hands on experience to prepare for roles that I’m doing, so the fact that I got to go on an actual speed dating event for the first time was actually kind of fun, but weird at the same time because the guys thought they were going to go on a real date afterwards.

DL: The “TOO COOL” character was a bit of a ladies man/womanizer…were there any real life “players” you drew from to develop this character?

"Too Cool" (Wesley Jonathan) meets "Kiki" (Camille Mana) in "Speed-Dating"

WESLEY: Nah, not really. I was able to play this guy pretty straightforward because he was just being cool. In films like “Roll Bounce” and other projects I’ve worked on, I’ve definitely borrowed from other characters. I did get to adlib and improv and be silly during the filming of some of the speed dating scenes.

DL: Vanessa, ironically your character ELIZABETH is the “church-going” girl who gets involved with the DOG character played by Chico Benymon. Everyone knows your real-life Dad is the legendary Rev. Run of Run D.M.C. , so do guys get intimidated by you having the “preacher’s kid” stigma?

VANESSA: Unfortunately, yes! I’m like, listen guys, if I love you and I like you and I’m bringing you home, my Dad’s gonna give you that benefit, I think, until I turn my back…so I’ve heard. I just usually have to prepare guys when they meet him, but he’s a Dad like any other Dad. As far as Elizabeth, I like the character a lot and can relate to her in a lot of ways because she’s the good girl and she’s not doing the crazy things the rest of the girls are doing.

DL: Mekita, you did double duty in this movie as Wesley’s love interest and producer for the movie. Were you nervous going into your first starring role and wearing hat as producer?

MEKITA: It’s funny you ask that. It was definitely a challenge and I look back on it amazed at how I got through it, but I owe that part to God.

DL: What’s next for everybody?

WESLEY: I’m in a new movie coming soon called “The Obama Effect” directed by Charles Dutton and another called “B-Girl” and I’m currently working on a new project “Four to the Floor” with Evan Ross.

Vanessa Simmons

VANESSA: As you know my sister [Angela] and I have the Pastry clothing line which is doing very well and we’re expanding right now and couldn’t be happier. “Daddy’s Girls” is in its second season and Vanessa’s making her way around Hollywood and has some upcoming projects on the horizon.

LA MONDE: Stay tuned for “SPEED-DATING” to be released soon. This film is testing well with men AND women in the preliminary screenings and I think we have an incredible project on our hands. I’ve got to give a quick thanks to Blacksingles.com and HurryDate.com as well!

To check out the trailer and find out more regarding “Speed-Dating: The Movie” you can go to www.speed-datingmovie.com

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It’s a Nude, Nude Summer

Reggie Brown, NBC Chicago Street Team

A successful playwright once said that an order to get people to come to the theater, you need to provide the audience with comedy, music or nudity. Well this is America, damnit, and thanks to The Great American Nudie Spectacular, you can have it all in one show.

Writer/composer/director Greg Silva was inspired more than a decade ago to create a show with a serious theme that could still appeal to a mass audience. He decided to challenge the accepted American censorship values that allow audiences unlimited access to scenes and images of violence on TV and in film, but will slap a film with an “R” rating when nudity makes its way on screen. In short, he seeks to answer why images of nudity are seen as more of a threat to “family values” than images of violence.

Click here to read the entire article on NBCChicago.com.

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Dexter Shines at The Shrine

Dave Leonard, NBC5 Street Team, (Video) In this day and age of ringtone rappers, one-hit wonders, and soft-core sex-laden R&B, it’s like a breath of fresh air when a hidden gem can shine through all the filler. With a small selection of songs in commercial radio’s playlist, consumers sometimes are force-fed a daily dose of “microwave music” where the supply often overshadows the demand. Quality soul music is more abundant than one may think…you just have to “listen”. Julie Dexter is here to fulfill that demand. The world-renowned, Birmingham, England-bred, singer/songwriter displayed her dynamic range at a rare showcase this past weekend at the new “it” spot, The Shrine (located at 2109 S. Wabash). Julie Dexter’s vibrant style and jazzy vocals exude soul and her followers came out to support her. The showcase presented by IGM Entertainment had a record crowd turn out to hear the UK songstress perform favorites such as “Ketch A Vibe” and “Faith” off her 2002 album, “Dexterity”. The very popular jazz group, Zzaje, backed the intimate performance at The Shrine. Dexter, who has shared the stage with soulful legends such as Sade and modern heavy-hitters like Jill Scott, Eric Roberson, and Amel Larrieux kicked off her set with a tribute to another legend that inspired her by the name of Michael Jackson. She later transitioned to a jazzy bebop version of Beyonce’s “Déjà vu” that would have made the best “scatters” proud. After paying homage to other greats, Julie Dexter gave the crowd what they came to see…a one-hour set spanning her decade plus career from her first EP, 2000’s “Peace of Mind” to 2005’s “Conscious”. It’s not too late to get familiar with this classically trained musician who writes, arranges, composes and produces her own music. “The Julie Dexter Collection” drops this fall. Do yourself a favor and “Ketch the Vibe”. www.juliedexter.com

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Raiders Of The “Lost Art”

Dave Leonard, NBC Chicago Street Team
This past weekend I was treated to a fun and engaging comedic experience from seven of the funniest and most talented ladies I’ve ever seen…The Elite Delta Force 3.  This all-female sketch comedy troupe have been selling out shows in the Los Angeles area and after checking them out in one of two shows at the Harold Washington Cultural Center (located at 4701 S. King Drive) on Saturday, I can see why.

The Elite Delta Force 3 is comprised of native Chicagoans Nefetari Spencer, Robin Thede, and Leshay Tomlinson-Boyce in addition to Angela Yarbrough, Nikea Gamby-Turner, Nika Williams, and rotating cast member Indira Gibson.  These dynamic women who wrote, produced, and of course appear in these hilarious sketches have resumes that are comparable to seasoned comedy veterans and their “no holds barred” impressions take on everything from politics to pop culture.  Their mission is to “save the world…one sketch at a time”. Two words…mission accomplished!

The ladies of Elite Delta Force 3

The show opens with a comical video intro reminiscent of cheesy ‘70s & ‘80s action serials like the “A-Team” meets “Charlie’s Angels”, showcasing each of the ladies as gun-toting, wall-climbing, karate kicking, Bond-esque divas.  From there, the live sketches kick-off with a musical number that parodies the popular “Dreamgirls” anthem “One Night Only” and puts an unflinching racist spin on it.  The ladies do quick wardrobe changes as they go from sketch to sketch and get a brief respite in between, while the audience is treated to their natural comedic talent in short pre-taped “behind-the-scenes” video vignettes where the EDF3 troupe spar off with one another in their writing sessions and rehearsals. 

In one of the funnier sketches, the ladies take on MTVs “America’s Best Dance Crew” where Thede and Gamby-Turner do dead-on impressions of judges Lil’ Mama and Shane Sparks.  Other highlights include the farcical “blind date” sketch, the “new girl at Hooters” piece, and my personal favorite, “Bear Stearns Meets Breakin’” where EDF3 even makes light of the economy.  I won’t give away the ending, but the ladies do not disappoint with a sexy tribute to one of America’s iconic heroines.

If you’re looking for side-splitting, adult humor, these seven talented beauties definitely deliver.  Chicago is the first of many cities where Elite Delta Force 3 will be touring.  Do yourself a favor and check them out now.  To find out what other cities they’ll be invading and to get more updates, check out their website at www.elitedeltaforce3.com

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Us? Sarcastic? Never!

Shlomi Rabi, NBC Chicago Street Team

The examples are endless: “Me? A snob? As in possessing a discerning palate that differentiates me from the rest of the riff-raff? Never.” Or how about “Governor Blago? “Love the guy. Upright, humble, simple, altruistic, wish he’d never left the political arena.” And of course, “Winter in Chicago? A total breeze, you barely notice it. Your cuteness will not be compromised, your skin will not turn green, and your favorite pair of boots will not be !@#$# ruined.” We’re just sayin’.

The theme, of course, is sarcasm, and only in Chicago will you find an exceptionally talented group of comedians dedicated to spreading awareness of the twisted humor’s appeal.

Click here to read the rest of this post on NBCChicago.com.

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A funny little chat with K-von!

JenChicago, NBC5 Street Team

So Sarah invites Staci and me to go with her, and some friends, to Zanies, for a showcase. It was my first time at the Chicago laugh stop and we had a great time! Those guys and gals on stage should get big props for getting out of their comfort zone in pursuit of their dream.

Stand-up is hard. Trust me. I’ve tried it.

So we go to the packed show and then we skipped on down to Fireplace Inn where I enjoyed some great food, a cold beer and a fun chat with K-von. He’s fun and funny!

PS: Kvon just likes to go by Kvon. You know, no last name. Which is fine by me. (Although, I DO get him to spill it in the video.)

For more funny videos, check out JenChicago.com!
Find me on Facebook! (Search: JenChicago)

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Would you call this a Miracle? Hundreds of Chicagoans did…

Laura Lodewyck, NBC5 Street Team
It was an event that captured the attention of the entire country. An image that many thought was the Virgin Mary — and other, a salt stain — appeared under the Fullerton Avenue overpass, prompting hundreds of people to visit the shrine for days on end.

The event provides the inspiration for Teatro Vista’s latest production, Our Lady of the Underpass. The play is currently on-stage at the Victory Gardens Greenhouse through March 29.

The play, written by Tanya Saracho, is a story about men and women from all walks of life who are brought together through the real-life event.
Click here to read the rest of this post on nbcchicago.com.

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Soul Forreal…

Dave Leonard, NBC5 Street Team, (Video)
If you missed last week’s Foreign Exchange show at the Double Door, get familiar! The Hip-Hop Soul collective performed to a packed house for the first time ever in Chicago. Foreign Exchange is comprised of rapper Phonte (of the critically-acclaimed rap group Little

Photo by Stacy Patrice

Brother), vocalists Darien Brockington and Yahzarah, Dutch producer Nicolay, and various band members including Detroit’s own Zo!. As a group they have released two incredible albums, 2004’s “Connected” and the more recent 2008 release, “Leave It All Behind”. They kept the sardine packed Double Door moving and grooving to tracks from both albums while Phonte kept the comedic banter going in between songs. Each artist showcased their signature songs, Phonte skillfully going back and forth from rhyming to singing, on tracks like “Sincere” (featuring Yahzarah), the soulful “baby-maker” ‘Come Around’ (featuring Darien Brockington), and Nicolay’s “Nic’s Groove”. If the Foreign Exchange didn’t provide enough entertainment, the crowd definitely got it’s $27.00’s worth by the warm-up DJ, DJ Kwest_On? of Swank Society Radio. Kwest had the crowd exhausted after taking us on a musical odyssey of hip-hop and old school classics that drew cheer after cheer. There was a great word of mouth campaign on this one and FE’s true fans were definitely in the house!

Looking for some fun events THIS weekend??? Check out 4 time Grammy nominated, remixer/producer Steve “Silk” Hurley spinning at the “Purple Party” this Saturday night (February 7^th) at the Omni Hotel (located at 676 North Michigan Avenue).  This will definitely be one for the “grown and sexy” backed by soulful House music.  The party is presented by S&S Records

and Real Men Love.

 

Last but not least, set the Tivo for the Grammy’s and the Pro Bowl this Sunday, February 8th and come and check out R&B’s Best Kept secret, Syleena Johnson as she performs and meets and greets for her “Chapter 4: Labor Pains” Album Release party at RedNoFive (located at 440 N. Halsted).  The doors open at 7pm and showtime is at 9pm.  The host for the evening is comedian Lil Rel.   If you haven’t already, pick up Syleena’s new album in stores or on iTunes and be sure to check her out in a special performance on the Maury Povich show Thursday, February 12^th (check your local listings).

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FALL into Angels & Kings TONIGHT…

Ashley Lobo, NBC Chicago Street Team

Fall Out Boy guitarist Joe Trohman and New Trier Brotally buddy Alex Beh present their pair of fun flicks tonight! Not only can you meet two famous Chicago boys, but you can support a charitable cause. “The Laundry” is executive produced by Trohman and written/directed/performed by Beh. Some familiar faces are: Tony Hale (Arrested Development), Colleen Camp (Clue, Election) and Joe Nunez (Seven Pounds, Superbad). The evening will also feature Beh’s awarding winning film, “Sugar.” In between the big party you can catch the cool sounds of DJ Matt Roan, Yuir Lane and Andy Davis. All of the cash raised will benefit; Falling Whistles, a new non-profit for child soldiers in DR Congo.

When:
February 5 : 9 p.m.
Price:
No cover (Suggested $10 donation)

Angels & Kings
Neighborhood: River North
710 N. Clark St.
Chicago, IL
312-482-8600

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A Zany Night With Brian Posehn

Janelle Rominski, NBC Chicago Street Team

In these tough economic times, it seems like everyone is in need of a good entertaining laugh.

At Zanies Comedy Club, you can get your laugh-on with locally and nationally performing comedians for a relatively inexpensive price. Zanies has a location in Chicago and two in the suburbs of St. Charles and Vernon Hills.

Performing soon at Zanies are comedians Norm MacDonald, Greg Proops, Rob Riggle, Steve Burton from”General Hospital” and more.

I attended metal-head enthusiast Brian Posehn‘s show in Vernon Hills on Saturday.

Posehn is known for his role on “The Sarah Silverman Program” and has been seen all over Comedy Central and HBO.

Posehn often reflects his love for metal music in his shows as he is a big supporter of bands like Anthrax, Iron Maiden, etc.

Opening for Posehn was comedian Tony Camin who has appeared on “Late Night with Conan O’Brien”.

Posehn gave a special thanks to the audience for coming out to see his show in wake of the poor economy. As a supporter of President Obama, Posehn is looking forward to the change that is coming with the new presidency. Posehn is experiencing change in his life as well. He recently bough a new home in Los Angeles and he and his wife are expecting their first child together.

His show was very entertaining. It wasn’t about telling joke after different joke. It was more about telling his life’s stories in the most crazy, insane, ridiculous kinds of ways. After all, I believe comedy is about being able to laugh at yourself with others.

Want more Rominski reads? Read more right HERE!

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They do, they DO call it Xanadu!

Laura Lodewyck, NBC Chicago Street Team

The concept of the musical re-make of the 1980 Olivia Newton-John film Xanadu walks the thinnest of lines between delightfully shameless glow-stick parody and awkward, somewhat scary comedic attempts (i.e., creepy talking baby/animal commercials). I am happy to report that Xanadu successfully emerges as an energetically entertaining production worthy of all the excitement — glow sticks and all.

Click here to read the rest of this post on nbcchicago.com.

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Keep Santa in your heart all year!

JenChicago, NBC5 Street Team

Much to my delight and surprise, I found myself to be the current “Featured NBC Chicago Street Teamer”! After such an exciting, bustling and fantastic Chicago Holiday season, I feel as though the gifts just keep on coming!

I also realized that in the midst of all the excitement, there were TWO holiday videos that I never actually posted on this site. I know, I know… and I’m sorry. Please forgive Santa.

Due to the “Santa-Clause-y” nature of the videos, I wondered if the time had passed and it was too late to post… BUT THEN I thought, “What would Santa do?”

So, “bada-bing, bada-boom”… here you go. Please enjoy Santa dancing at the Go Green event and ice skating in Millennium Park.

Find more fun and silly videos at JenChicago.com!

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Stella at The Vic

Maureen Vana, NBC5 Street Team
Clog stomping, frost zombies, disappearing birthday cake, and a pair of Underoos had Chicago in stitches last Friday night.  The comedy troupe, Stella, are no novices to the instigation of laughter.  Michael Ian Black, Michael Showalter, and David Wain have a lengthy history together of TV shows, appearances, tours, and movies to pad their reference material.

The sold out show at The Vic Theatre last weekend was a visual extravaganza of silliness.  Stella came equipped with an informative slide show on Christmas trees, a group effort at caroling, and a game of Zots and Crambles complete with crowd participation.  Of course, all the attempted projects of the night took off on a road of tangents ending in anything from dancing to doodie.

The evening came to a close with a special video skit of  Showalter’s birthday and an encore song comprised mostly of gibberish.  The video clearly highlighted what the trio does best and the performance was concluded with a roaring approval by the audience.

Season 1 of Stella is available on DVD and “Role Models”, co-written by David Wain, is in theaters now.  For more information on Stella visit:
http://www.stellacomedy.com/

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Restaurants, Concerts and Games at Horseshoe Casino in Hammond Indiana

D.C. “Fete Select TV” Crenshaw, NBC5 Street Team

If you’re looking for something different to do this holiday season and want a break from Chicago’s hustle and bustle, then you might want to travel to Northwest Indiana.  I recently visited Horseshoe Casino, in Hammond Indiana, and was pleasantly surprised to see a first class venue.  I dined at their steak and seafood restaurant, Jack Binions, which offers select cuts of prime rib, steaks, veal and seafood.  My Kobe beef steak was tantalizing along with a few appetizers and a couple of desserts.  The restaurant overlooks Lake Michigan and attracts a lot of casino goers from Indiana and Chicago.  The casino also has a few other dining options, including the Village Square Buffet, housing Italian, Mexican, American, Asian and Seafood cuisine.

Horseshoe Casino has 350,000 square-feet of gaming space and 97 tables with games such as Black Jack, Poker, Craps, Roulette, Mini-Baccarat and many more.  The casino features approximately 3200 slot machines including the High-Limit Slot Room.  There are a few exclusive private lounges for special guests and high rollers.  The Horseshoe’s gaming room rivals any casino on the Las Vegas strip.

The Venue, the casino’s 90,000 square foot entertainment facility, hosts events and concerts.  Famous musicians and comedians are showcased weekly.  Past performers have included Seal, Liza Minelli, and Bette Midler.   Upcoming events will feature Gladys Knight, Jeff Foxworthy and Cedric the Entertainer.  The Venue also hosted the World Series of Poker this past October.

The Hammond Horseshoe Casino is about 30-minutes from downtown Chicago via I-90/94 and the Chicago Skyway.  For more information log onto www.hammondhorseshoe.com or call 866-711-SHOE (7463).

To check out the newest and hottest restaurants in Chicago watch Fete Select TV on www.efete.net.

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Last Comic Standing Coming to Chicago Area

Marcus Riley, NBC5 Street Team (video)

Are you ready to laugh? If you’ve seen NBC’s Emmy-nominated “Last Comic Standing,” then you’ve already experienced the reality show-based comedy show.

Now they’re taking it on the road, bringing the “Last Comic Standing Live Tour” to
the Chicago area on Oct. 11. The show will be held at The Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University, about 45 minutes from the Loop.

The winner of the sixth season, Iliza Shlesinger, will perform, along with four other finalists. Each will present 20-minute sets of stand up at the show. Schlesinger won a $250,000 grand prize along with an exclusive talent deal with NBC.

Tickets are now on sale and range in price from $38-$66. Call (708) 235-2222 or log on to http://www.centertickets.net for ticket information. If you’re the gambling type, two-for-one tickets are available at the box office two hours prior to the curtain for one hour only (6-7 p.m.), based upon availability.

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A True Radio Legend: Clark Weber

Cara Carriveau, NBC5 Street Team

Anyone who grew up in Chicago and listened to the radio in the 60′s have fond memories of Clark Weber. I didn’t move here until 1989 but I’ve heard about him over the years and was very excited to pick up his new book, “Clark Weber’s Rock & Roll Radio: The Fun Years, 1955-1975″.  It’s a really cool coffee-table book with lots of great pictures and extremely entertaining stories.  The best part is the CD that comes with it with plenty of radio clips from back in the day.

I am so glad that I made a point of meeting him at a book signing.  He’s had quite an interesting life & career in radio.  I admire him and consider him a mentor.   His book is a must for anyone who is a fan of radio or a fan of music from the ’50′s-’70′s.

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UR Chicago Magazine Goes On Indefinite Hiatus

Erik Sorensen, NBC5 Street Team

18 months after taking over as publisher of UR Chicago, En Prise Entertainment has regrettably pulled the plug on the print edition of their beloved magazine , citing printing costs in a difficult economical time as the primary culprit.

Founded in 1997, The popular lifestyle and entertainment magazine reached a monthly circulation rate of 45.000 copies and has been an editorial hub for all things art in Chicago for years. Keeping the city’s hipsters and artists updated with trends in nightlife, music, theater, art, film, dining and fashion isn’t an easy task – (especially on a monthly basis); but the publication’s enthusiastic and up-to-speed staff have been steadily providing a labor of love that will undoubtedly be missed.

Before you drain your tear ducts completely, though, you should know that UR Chicago will be concentrating all of its future efforts into the online realm via their website, URChicago.com. The site will update daily with album, book, film and gave reviews in addition to cluing Chicago in on the “what’s what” of indie nightlife.

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Gone, But Not Forgotten

Katrell Mendenhall, NBC5 Street Team

Bernard McCullough, a.k.a Bernie Mac, would have been honored and proud of the enormous outcome of fans and celebs at his funeral on the South Side of Chicago. Mac was famous for the coined phrase “Who U Wit” from the Emmy-winning “The Bernie Mac Show”.

In a very supernatural way he’s still here, as the movie premiere for “Soul Man” featuring Samuel L. Jackson and Issac Hayes will be released in November.  The movie is about a rhythm and blues band who reunite after 20 years of an acrimonious breakup following the death of the band’s lead singer. Jackson and Bernie play the group’s two main members, while Isaac Hayes portrays himself.  And eerily enough, the movie’s plot is about death.

Many can be replaced but duplicating will never happen. You are forever missed Bernie!

I spoke with some of his closest friends and here is what they had to say:

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Dancing Lollapalooza Boy

Cara Carriveau, NBC5 Street Team

I have many memories of Lollapalooza. Great music. Fun people-watching. Interviewing artists like Duffy and Tally Hall. Surprisingly delicious and affordable food at the concert. Running into friends I hadn’t seen in years. Hearing “Come Sail Away” by Styx sampled by one of the artists on stage (loved that!). The sea of urine on the sidewalks surrounding Grant Park (didn’t love that, especially the smell).

Without a doubt, though, my fondest memory is that of bringing my 3 year old son Sam. We tried our best but couldn’t secure a sitter on Saturday. Since kids under 10 get in free at Lollapalooza we took him with us as soon as he woke up from his afternoon nap. I am pretty certain that he was youngest mosher for Rage Against The Machine. Luckily, we were able to keep him far from the rowdy crowd in the press area. Earlier we took him to see The Toadies play. To say he loved them is putting it mildly.

Check out this video (try to watch until the very end – it’s got a cute finale):

Did your parents take you to Woodstock???

Click HERE to see a ton of Lollapalooza photos.

Type my name in the search bar to see/hear more of my posts including interviews with Alanis Morissette, The Bravery, Lovehammers, O.A.R’s Marc Roberge, Triumph’s Rik Emmett, Matthew Santos, Shooting Star, Mike Tafoya, Absentstar, comedian Lee Camp & more.

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