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A nostalgic hourney through the highs and lows of life‘s journey through patter and song

Nationally known cabaret artist Kevin Wood invites you to join him on a nostalgic journey through life in song and patter. Stephen Mosher in Broadway World wrote of his previous show that “Kevin presents this act without a theme as a series of vignettes, personal observations, and anecdotes, an act reminiscent of those created by the likes of Charles Nelson Reilley, Imogene Coca, and Comden and Green. Carla Gordon in Cabaret Scenes calls Kevin a “masterful storyteller.” TWO SHOWS - 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Filipina-American cabaret artist Lou Ella Rose takes audiences on a heartfelt and humorous musical journey through the life of an Alto — on stage and off, along the way celebrating the musical legends and icons, Lea Salonga, Pat Suzuki, Peggy Lee, Karen Carpenter, Eartha Kitt, Ursula (The Little Mermaid), Julie London and Asaka (Once On This Island). Lou Ella Rose weaves together sharp-witted storytelling and powerhouse vocals, reclaiming the spotlight for anyone who’s ever been told “You’re not the lead character type,” proving that contraltos aren’t just "sidekicks" and "supporting characters" in the story -- they are the story. Whether you love Cabaret, musical theater, or simply a great night of music, this show offers a fresh and funny look at life from the lower end of the scale. A show you won’t want to miss. Lou Ella Rose is an International actor, recording artist, and 2022 Chicago Cabaret Professionals Emerging Artist, and she is joined onstage by the SamaSama Project, musical direction by Andrew Blendermann & Baron Cabalona, and directed by Ken Baker ?? Andrew Blendermann, piano ??Baron Cabalona, percussion ??EJ Luna, bass ??John Kniker, lead guitar ??Ran Sevilla, rhythm guitar ??Giga Yanong, saxophone ?? Saturday, May 3 | 7 PM ?? Epiphany Center for the Arts Ticket options: $35 Advanced | $90 VIP for 2 | $160 VIP for 4 For info and tickets: bit.ly/SamaMay03

We had so much fun at Monday’s CCP Open Mic we are doing it again in the Hospitality Room at 4300 N.Marine Drive on Monday, May 5 from 7 pm to 10:00 pm with Mark Burnell at the piano.

The Robin Watson Combo present "An Edible Array of Music: Tunes to Whet Your Appetite" along with Comedian Jeremiah Frazier as their featured opening act. All attendees will be entered into a special drawing for dining experiences at Tre Sorelle Ristorante in Oak Park. General admission is $30 pp and VIP for two at $90. Don‘t miss this tasty treat! Great kick off for Chicago Cabaret Week and Mother‘s Day weekend outing!

Muse incorporates drag, burlesque, clowning and other art forms to create an intimate, thought-provoking cabaret experience featuring live singing and instrumental music. ChicagoCabaretWeek featured show.

Encore: The Art of Aging Well is a salute to the Center for Life and Learning which has offered programs for people 60+ since 1965. With David Aaron, Anne Burnell, Mark Burnell, Pam Peterson. Featured show ChicagoCabaretWeek.org

Experience an Extraordinary Musical Journey Across Genres This isn’t just a concert—it’s an immersive experience that uplifts the heart and soul. Reimagining Cabaret: The Genres Explored takes audiences on a passionate journey through diverse musical styles, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Join us for a night of joy, laughter, and unforgettable music! Following a wave of critical praise from CBS News, the Chicago Sun-Times, and NBC, this vibrant concert experience continues its mission of reintroducing audiences to the timeless tradition of cabaret—through the soul-stirring sounds of jazz, rhythm and blues, classical, musical theatre, and more. New: Brianna Johnson, Meagan McNeal, Ron Gutierrez, Devon Sandridge, Bruce Henry, Joan Collaso, Kal Marshell Returning: Bobbi Wilsyn, Isiah Mitchell, Ava Logan, Madeline Morgan, Holly McGuire, Randy Johnson, Evelyn Danner, Sean Harris, Darcelle Williams, Gene Williams, Margaret Murphy-Webb Lynn - creator/director/producer Theodis Rodgers, Jr. - music director Margaret Murphy-Webb - emcee

“One of the most unbelievable vocal instruments in the industry today.” – BroadwayWorld. Join award-winning vocalist Ben Jones and legendary pianist, composer, and music director. Chicago Cabaret Week featured show.

WELCOME to the DRAGARET!
A FREE 100% live singing Drag Cabaret by MY CABARET!

Muffy Fishbasket (M) and Mrs. Yuka Layme (Y) combine the best elements of drag & live cabaret to bring you a night of music, sass, shade, and booze!

This is an evening you won‘t want to forget. So, gather that tipping cash and fix you a plan & cocktail for this interactive DRAGARET experience you’re not likely to find anywhere else!

Cast: Muffy Fishbasket & Mrs. Yuka Layne
NOTE: This show is rated R. We don‘t parent your kids, so use your own discretion on who you bring to the show.

Enjoy real life mother/daughter duo Nancy Hays and Mary Heffernan’s performance as they lovingly recall the famed 1964 concert of the legendary mother/daughter duo. Fulton Street Collective, a featured show ChicagoCabaretWeek.org

This Chicago Cabaret Week show will celebrate songs about the great cities of the world. Selections will include the romantic, humorous, well known, and those not as familiar. You will be able to tour these fabulous places with some of Chicago‘s most talented cabaret artists without leaving the comfort of your table.

Working In Concert is bringing our Chicago-Paris love affair to Rockwell on the River during Chicago Cabaret Week! Claudia Hommel & friends are conjuring up the Seine while looking out at the Chicago River. Let flow the Chicago sounds and Paris melodies with Bobby Schiff & Peter Storms at the keys. Sam Hyson brings his violin and accordion. The singing company includes Susan Arjmand, Anne Burnell, Jeanne Franks, John S. Green, Rae-Myra Hilliard, Elisabeth Howard, Rosalind Hurwitz, Randolph Johnson, Gaye Klopack, Lauren Lassen, Ava Logan, Patricia Mosley, Ren Perez, Carl Ratner, Cécile Savage, Christine Steyer! Ample free street and courtyard parking. Soul & Smoke is open for pre-show dinner and drinks. Show seating opens at 6:30 pm. Visit https://tinyurl.com/RockwellMay13 for tickets! $25 in advance, $35 at the door (plus processing fees). No drink or dinner minimum.

Opening act by Zoé Soteres with “Don’t Be So Dramatic!” Lexa Maxa is back this Chicago Cabaret Week with her band. The new Gateway Lounge at Copernicus Center. A featured show ChicagoCabaretWeek.org

At Cliff Dwellers. A featured show Chicago Cabaret Week.

Join us for an evening with a little bit of rhythm and blues, rock and roll, honky-tonk country, swing and Broadway. The 1950’s, besides being the decade when the Sarah Siddons Society was founded, had so many great musical genres. We will celebrate them with some of Chicago’s top cabaret artists. They will be performing along with talented theatre arts students from the four Chicago area universities where we fund scholarships. A featured show in Chicago Cabaret Week.

Tony Morrison Quartet featuring Robin Watson, Sunday, 10am to noon. Randolph Street Market Festival: Find the best art, antiques and vintage decor, ephemera, vintage and indie designer fashion and jewelry, vinyl, global goods, fancy and fun foods – thousands of top-quality goods presented by dealers from around the country at this fancy European style flea market festival! Enjoy our market bars, cabana and air-conditioned beaux-arts building plus a continuous variety of live bands each day to make for an exceptionally fun shopping vibe — and the best people watching anywhere! In the heart of the West Loop of Chicago! (just West of Millennium Park and “The Bean”!) General Admission May 24+25, 2025 ($15 at the gate) This ticket is good for both days! Ask for same weekend re-entry ticket at check-in if you plan to return. Not transferrable.

Jazz entertainment and dining. No cover. Drink and food menu available. Tony Morrison, Bass; John Scoville, Drums; Jonah Orlofsky, Pianist; and Robin Watson, Vocals.

Joan Collaso will be performing her repertoire of beloved songs. Emmy award winner and international vocalist, her flowing sensual melodies, colorful improvisations and soulful stylings intrigue your ear, her spirit will capture your heart. She blends the textures of Jazz, R&B, Blues and Gospel in a way that gives her a distinct sound. While Joan trail blazes her musical talents and performances all over the world she also weaves her extraordinary skills as an advocate for social justice and children’s creativity. Joan Collaso (Lead vocal), Larry Hanks (Keys, MD), Ron Hall (Bass), Kenari Allison (Drums), Rayzine Collaso (Background vocals), Jessica Walton (Background vocals) Advanced ticketing not required. One price, $30. First come first serve. Street parking is plentiful. Doors open at 6:30pm. Show time, 7:30-10pm. Full bar. A featured show of Chicago Cabaret Week

You‘re invited on a journey through love, laughter, triumph, and reflection. More than a show — a celebration of life, passion, and the art of connection. Our May 10 show sold out at Freedom Hall in Park Forest. Follow the buzz! Haven Entertainment Center Located at 932 E 43rd, Chicago, IL 60653, our venue offers a lively and vibrant atmosphere that perfectly complements the enchanting performances. Directed and produced by Lynn Colbert-Jones, hosted by Margaret Murphy-Webb, with pianist/music director Theodis Rodgers, Jr. New artist: Cynda Williams (of "Mo‘ Better Blues") Returning artists: Ken Fobs, Sean Harris, Bruce Henry, Madeline Morgan, and Sonia Oyola Tickets from $30-$55. Available at the door and at our website: https://blackvoicesincabaret.org

The music and entertainment of I’m M$. B’Havin and her Sexagenarians’ band is a unique blend of Blues, Jazz, R&B and a good time for all. When you leave the event, you will be singing . . . “There is no such thing as too much . . .” I’m M$. B’Havin – Entertainer (Band Founder) Paul McAdams – Rhythm Guitar and Vocals (Co-Founder) Sam Rodriguez – Percussion and Vocals Dave Service – Bass Guitar Dedrick Blanchard No cover charge and no reservation required. The Tonk offers a menu of delicious BBQ and full bar in Pilsen. https://immsbhavin.com/future-shows A featured show of Chicago Cabaret Week

Swingin‘ Again at Le Piano

Who doesn’t remember “Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh”? But parodist Allan Sherman wrote so many more songs than that and inspired all punny people after him. Learn all about history in “You Went The Wrong Way Old King Louis,” fine dining in “Hungarian Goulash,” medicine in “I See Bones,” or the names of all your relatives in “Shake Hands With Your Uncle Max, My Boy.” Sherman would have turned 100 on November 30, 2024, and what better way to celebrate this funny man’s legacy than singing through a bunch of his songs with singing pianist Andy Bossov and guests performers? Doors will open at 1:30, with light refreshments available for sale. A featured show of Chicago Cabaret Week

Celebrate 20+ years of music, kindness, and community with Acts Of Kindness Cabaret (AOKC) as we take our final bow. For over two decades, AOKC has harnessed the magic of cabaret to support local nonprofits, raising over half a million dollars for meaningful causes while introducing thousands to the beauty of cabaret. Now, as we close our doors, join us for a joyful farewell. Enjoy unforgettable performances by AOKC artists of the last 20 years, soak up love and gratitude for your years of support, partake in uplifting community music-making, savor delicious food and drinks, and share in the camaraderie of friends. Tickets just $10 (incl. food +1 drink ticket) https://www.aokcabaret.org/finalbow

At Vincent. No cover, reservations recommended. A featured show in Chicago Cabaret Week.

We had so much fun doing our Motown Revue that we decided to take one more trip down memory lane. This time we are going back to the 60‘s! Who doesn‘t like music from the 60‘s? Arlene Armstrong, Darcelle Williams Joyce Thomas, Patrick Davis, and Sonia Oyola will bring you the best in pop, R & B, Latin, jazz and folk. We have brought Drew Fase back as our master of ceremony. While you are being entertained, make sure to order one of Borelli’s fantastic pizzas and glass of wine. This is how you finish a weekend.

Join cabaret singer, Russ Goeltenbodt, his Musical Director, Sami Scot, and surprise guests, as he pays tribute to his Mother, Shirley‘s 100th Birthday. Russ tells Shirley‘s story through song stories, and humor. Shirley,the eldest of 5 siblings, grew up during the Depression taking care of her family,fell in love, got married, raised 3 children during the 1950‘s 60‘s and ‘70s, and creating many memories along the way.