Mothers get in free on Mother’s Day to 'First Lady Suite'
Bailiwick Repertory Theatre is celebrating Mother’s Day by offering a special buy-one get-one free offer to theatergoers who bring their mothers to the 3:30 p.m. performance of “First Lady Suite” on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 8. Tickets are $30 and are available by calling (773) 883-1090. The funny and touching musical runs through May 29 at Bailiwick Repertory Theatre, 1229 W. Belmont Ave.
The women who have lived at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue have fascinated the world for decades with their triumphs and tears, and Michael John LaChiusa’s series of chamber musicals takes an introspective look at the lives of Jackie, Lady Bird, Mamie, Bess and others.
Produced to wide acclaim by the New York Shakespeare Festival's Joseph Papp Public Theatre and recently revised and revived, “First Lady Suite” is composed of four chamber pieces, ranging from funny to lyrical, focusing on celebrated first ladies and the people surrounding them.
The first piece, the staccato "Over Texas," takes place aboard Air Force One on Nov. 22, 1963. Mary Gallagher, the First Lady's personal secretary, and Evelyn Lincoln, personal secretary to the President, are trying to relax as they fly into Dallas. Mary's dreams become portentous nightmares as a ghostly Jackie and an eerie Lady Bird haunt them.
The brassy, bouncy "Where's Mame?" takes place in Ike and Mamie's bedroom at the White House, yet quickly turns into a time-travel fantasy as Mamie, melancholic and alone on her birthday, is paid a visit by Marian Anderson.
The comical "Olio" presents Margaret Truman at a recital trying her best to sing as she's constantly, hilariously, being upstaged by First Lady Bess.
The final piece of the Suite, the melodic "Eleanor Sleeps Here," is a heart-rending examination of the relationship between Eleanor Roosevelt and Lorena Hickok as Amelia Earhart is flying them over Washington.
Shifra Werch directs “First Lady Suite,” with Musical Direction by Dirk Van Brussel. Set Designer is Eric Appleton, Costume Designer is Carol Blanchard, and Lighting Designer is Jared Moore. Production Stage Manager is Rae Schobel. Elizabeth Haley (Mamie), Katherine Kerberlein (Jackie), Jenny Fitts Reynolds (Hickok), Melonie Collman (Mary), Tiffany Gates (Evelyn), Jill Van Brussel (Eleanor), and Brad Jungwirth (Ike) are featured. Director Shifra Werch has had a long association with Bailiwick Repertory as director and designer. She serves as Artistic Director for Opera Piccolo, and has directed operas and musicals around the world. Musical Director Dirk Van Brussel served as Musical Director for One Theater Company's production of "The Baker's Wife" and the upcoming "City of Angels" and is on the faculty of Northwestern University.
Michael John LaChiusa is one of the most prolific writers for the musical theater today, with numerous productions on and Off-Broadway. He received Tony nominations for "The Wild Party" and "Marie Christine," and in 1995 he won an Obie Award for "Hello, Again," which had its Chicago premiere at Bailiwick, and “First Lady Suite.” In 1989 he was the first recipient of the Stephen Sondheim Award.
Bailiwick Repertory Theatre produces diverse works, ranging from classics to cutting edge. Since its founding in 1982, Bailiwick Repertory Theatre has consistently endeavored to achieve the vision of gifted directors in productions that have been as diverse as its audiences. With the director as fulcrum of its artistic process, Bailiwick Repertory Theatre has been recognized with more than 150 Citations, Nominations, and Recommendations from the Jeff Committee for all aspects of production, and more than three-dozen After Dark Awards, several Black Theater Alliance Awards. Bailiwick’s Pride Series has been inducted into the City of Chicago's Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame and been the recipient of the Torch Award from the Human Rights Campaign, the only theatre in the nation to be so honored. Since 1995, Bailiwick Repertory Theatre has made its home in the Bailiwick Arts Center, 1229 W. Belmont Ave. The 150-seat Mainstage, 90-seat studio, and 40-seat loft contained in the Bailiwick building have allowed Bailiwick to further explore its art with staged readings, performance pieces, and workshops of new work.
“First Lady Suite” offers performances Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 3:30 p.m., through May 29. Tickets are $25 Thursday, and $30 on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Tickets can be purchased at (773) 883-1090 or www.bailiwick.org.
Procrastinators:
If they read, you're done
Last-minute gift ideas for moms
If you need a gift for someone who lives in Chicago and who picks up an occasional book, Lake Claremont Press has something you can't pass up and the recipient won't be able to put down. Lake Claremont Press publishes Chicago books by Chicago authors; each title takes a look at the city from a different perspective. Whether the special someone on your list is a cook, a baseball fan, a Civil War buff, or a college student, Lake Claremont Press has a book to reveal Chicago's best ethnic food markets, little-known Cubs history, Civil War connections, or budget hot spots, and more. Peruse Lake Claremont Press's Web site or Lincoln Square storefront for more ideas on how to please moms, dads, and grads with the Chicago book that seems written just for them.
For Mom, try "Finding Your Chicago Ancestors: A Beginner's Guide to Family History in the City and Cook County," by Grace DuMelle. Or consider "A Cook's Guide to Chicago," by Marilyn Pocius.
While you're browsing, think of Father's Day and whether Dad would enjoy "Wrigley Field's Last World Series: The Wartime Chicago Cubs and the Pennant of 1945," by Charles Billington. Another strong choice is "Hoofs and Guns of the Storm: Chicago's Civil War Connections," by Arnie Bernstein, as well as "The Golden Age of Chicago Children's Television," by Ted Okuda and Jack Mulqueen.
Know anybody graduating? Select "A Native's Guide to Chicago," by Lake Claremont Press, or "The Streets and San Man's Guide to Chicago Eats," by Dennis Foley.
For 10 years Lake Claremont Press has published books that foster and reveal Chicago's unique history and special identity.
The Mom Network Support Group
Are you a new mother looking for additional support? Do you have questions about your baby's development? Being a new mother is an emotional and physical challenge for many women, which brings with it an endless stream of questions. Join Saint Joseph Hospital's The Mom Network, a weekly support group for new mothers that provides parenting support and information. Topics covered in weekly meetings are determined by participants and typically include the baby blues, fatigue, feeding issues, sleep patterns, infant brain development and time management skills. For more information or to register, call (773) 665-3605.
Lincoln Park Cultural Center offers Mother's Day meal
Lincoln Park Cultural Center (LPCC), 2045 N. Lincoln Park West, has several programs planned. Queen for a Day will be Friday, May 6, at 6 p.m. for all ages. The cost is $5 per person; Moms and Grandmas are free. Moms and Grandmas will be served a delicious catered dinner (baked chicken, salad, baked potato, vegetables and hot buttered rolls) without lifting a finger. Activities of the day include making lovely jeweled paper crowns, creating magnificent cereal necklaces and painting Mom’s portrait to treasure for years to come.
Meanwhile, the Teen Photo Exhibition runs through May, Monday through Thursday 9 a.m.- 9 p.m., Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. –3 p.m., for all ages, free. Talented local teens are exhibiting photos in the lobby at the Cultural Center. Several of these teens have been past winners in the Lincoln thru the Lenz photo contest.
For more information, call (312) 742-7726.
Fluky's offers moms free breakfast on Mother's Day
In a tradition now in its 18th year, Fluky's Chicago-area restaurants once again will be serving complimentary breakfast to moms who stop by for a tasty start to Mother's Day on Sunday, May 8. It's a tradition moms relish.
Breakfast selections include choice of eggs, pancakes, French toast, breakfast burrito or egg and cheese sandwich with bacon, sausage or hash browns on the side; or Fluky's popular lox plate. Coffee or juice also is included.
Mother's Day will be celebrated at Fluky's three area locations: downtown at The Shops at North Bridge, 520 N. Michigan Ave. (312-245-0702); Lincolnwood Town Center at Touhy and McCormick avenues in suburban Lincolnwood (847-677-7726); and 6821 N. Western Ave. on the city's North Side (773-274-3652). Fluky's on Michigan Avenue serves breakfast on Sundays from 9 a.m. to noon; breakfast hours at other locations are 7 to 11:30 a.m.
For more information, visit www.flukys.com.
A Taste of the Mediterranean
For over 23 years Andies Restaurant has served customers with its unique meals and distinctive style. Three and a half years ago Andies, located at 5253 N. Clark St., expanded from its storefront operation to a large, airy eatery with seating for any size group. The high demand for its delicious Mediterranean food helped propel Andies into its new home where it accommodates vegetarians and meat lovers alike with its extensive menu. Combining Greek, Lebanese, Turkish, Moroccan and other eastern Mediterranean influences, Andies offers a delicious dining experience at an affordable price.
Although the atmosphere of the restaurant is wonderful, it is the food that really deserves praise. Health is first and foremost at Andies. A wide variety of vegan, vegetarian and seafood dishes as well as a vast selection of chicken and meat dishes provide a menu that can satisfy anyone.
At this Andersonville favorite, the servers are attentive and the prices are fair. Open for lunch and dinner, this Zagat award winning restaurant is worth trying. Catering is also an option.
The hours are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Brunch on Saturday or Sunday runs 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for $14.95. For reservations, call (773) 784-8616.
For more information, log on to andiesres.com. Visit Andies on Clark or its sister restaurant at 1467 W. Montrose Ave.
Find artisanal cheeses at The Cheese Stands Alone
Founded by Matt and Sarah Parker, this shop offers familiar cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella and provolone as well as more exotic varieties such as Cabrales, Chimay and Epoisses. "We want everyone to come in, and to not be intimidated," says Matt. The 100 varieties include artisanal cheeses from North America, as well as imported cheeses from Europe and around the world.
In addition, customers can pick up gourmet crackers or fresh bread, pate, hummus, mustard, olives and fresh mayonnaise. Cooks will appreciate the imported pastas, fresh sauces and a line of Scottish soups from Baxter. Try the signature collection of about 10 to 15 varieties of Belgian style chocolates, all handmade by Sarah.
Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday noon to 5 p.m., closed Monday. The Cheese Stands Alone is located at 4547 N. Western Ave.; call (773) 293-3870.
'Total quality' at Golden Nugget
It's a clean, attractive restaurant in a very convenient location. But that's not why the customers keep coming to Golden Nugget, 1765 W. Lawrence Ave. The big draw is the satisfying food.
"Practically everything is homemade," said Cathy Guzman, who manages the restaurant. "No pancakes can beat ours. We have fresh homemade soup daily. We make our own al fredo sauce, and spaghetti sauce, and chili, and salsa." The cooks use the best ingredients for the meals as well. Only Certified Angus Beef products—fresh, not frozen—are used, even for hamburgers. You'll find real butter, premium orange juice, grade AA extra large eggs, and 100 percent Colombian coffee instead of a blend. The fruit is fresh, not canned or frozen.
The entire menu is served 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The location next to the Metra platform at Ravenswood and Lawrence avenues is perfect for people who ride the trains or buses; they can enjoy breakfast before work or stop in for a meal afterwards. Many appreciate the full carry-out menu that enables them to bring a real dinner home with no hassle.
Golden Nugget, 1765 W. Lawrence Ave., is open 24 hours a day, serving the entire menu. (Italian style spaghetti at 7 a.m., a breakfast burrito at midnight? No problem.) The phone number is (773) 769-6700.
Indulge at O'Brien's
Step into Chicago's historic Old Town neighborhood at O'Brien's. Step into the main dining room and enjoy prime steaks, fresh seafood, chicken, veal and pasta entrees. Free valet parking, cigar friendly piano bar and private rooms for your celebration await you. It's open daily at 11 a.m., with a Sunday brunch. Reservations are recommended; visit obriensrestaurant.com. O'Brien's Restaurant is located at 1528 N. Wells St., (312) 787-3131.
More than pizza
Pat's Pizzeria offers delicious thin-crust pizza, pasta, seafood, vegetarian entrées and more. Outdoor dining is available. Take out, dine in or delivery—you'll enjoy it no matter how you get it. Parking is free. Pat's Pizzeria is located at 3114 N. Sheffield Ave., (773) 248-0168.
Simply sumptuous, sophisticated
Find an elegant yet cozy ambiance in the heart of trendy Roscoe Village. Piazza Bella's menu offers sumptuous Old World favorites with a light, sophisticated touch. Try the Lasagna Della Nonna, Pollo Parmigiana or Fettucine Alla Nettuno (with clams, shrimp, mussels and scallops). You'll love the gourmet pizza and panini. The hours are Monday-Thursday 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. Delivery is available. Piazza Bella Trattoria is located at 2116 W. Roscoe St., (773) 477-7330.
Prego for pleasure in dining
Lincoln Park's newest taste of Italy has opened. Qualita vita is quality of life and Buon cibo means good food, and both are available in great abundance. Ask for a table on the patio this summer for dining under the stars. Prego is open for dinner Tuesday through Thursday from 5 to 10 p.m., Saturday until 11 p.m. and Sunday until 9 p.m. Call for reservations. Prego Un Ristorante Italiano is located at 2901 N. Ashland Ave., (773) 472-9190.
Ranalli's Up North: Fast, hot, delicious
Pizza, pasta, salads, sandwiches, ribs and much, much more make this Ravenswood area family restaurant unbeatable at satisfying any cravings you might have. Cozy dine-in, prompt pick-up, hot fast delivery and quality custom catering are all available. And don't miss the outdoor patio! Ranalli's Up North brings all the downtown quality and service you've come to expect from Ranalli's to your neighborhood! Ranalli's Up North is located at 1522 W. Montrose Ave., (773) 506-8800.
Authentic English pub
Red Lion Pub, Chicago's only authentic English pub, is an Anglophile's delight with lots of memorabilia and a real London phone booth. Come for conversation, stay for the food... it's good! It's convenient to theater, movies, readings and special events. Try Twilight Tales on Monday night, when local authors read their works of various genres: science fiction, mystery, romance and western. Red Lion Pub is located at 2446 N. Lincoln Ave., (773) 348-2695.
Rustic Southern Italian foods
To recreate the relaxed way of life and foods of Calabria, Via Carducci offers typical rustic Southern Italian foods, considered one of the best diets in the world with plenty of natural ingredients. Everything's fresh! Enjoy regional Italian wines that complement the cuisine of Southern Italy. Dine in, carry out or ask for delivery. Via Carducci is located at 1419 W. Fullerton Ave., (773) 665-1981.
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