Hear why Ravel is a classical music master, whether capturing the sensuous allure of Spain in Rapsodie espagnole or summoning “the Greece of [his] dreams” in his ravishing suite from Daphnis and Chloe. Barber’s Second Essay reflects the turbulent emotions of wartime. CSO Principal Clarinet Stephen Williamson solos in the world premiere of Indigo Heaven, a work written for him by American composer Christopher Theofanidis.

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Ravel Daphnis and Chloe

Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Discover how music can help us understand and share our feelings. Born of a life filled with joy and sorrow, love and pain, the music of Tchaikovsky pulses with strong emotions. Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser and members of the CSO present the Russian composer’s courageous journey and demonstrate how music helps all of us express our emotions.

School Concert: The Music of Our Emotions

A pair of superstars shares the Symphony Center stage. Leonidas Kavakos, “a commanding presence onstage” (The New York Times), teams up with CSO Artist-in-Residence Daniil Trifonov, “one of the most spectacularly virtuosic pianists of the day” (The New York Times), for a program that spans the restless outpourings of Beethoven and Brahms to the 20th-century fireworks of Poulenc and Bartók.

Leonidas Kavakos & Daniil Trifonov

Composed as Napoleon’s forces were threatening Austria, Haydn’s Mass in Time of War features an extraordinarily ominous use of timpani and ends with a plea for peace. Beethoven’s spirited First Symphony bears the influence of Haydn but also foreshadows the development of his own compositional style. MacMillan’s eloquent Larghetto is based on his choral setting of Psalm 51.

Haydn Mass in Time of War

Podcast link: https://youtu.be/4hagYvrYbuM

The Artelize Podcast and Kasper Holten - Pedefining Opera for the modern world

Podcast link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d36M5Hi6O80

The Artelize Podcast - A legacy of innovation in Opera: Celebrating Marc A. Scorca

Podcast link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=59E40S_EQSY

The Artelize Podcast: A love letter that was never sent

Podcast link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THv6htilWtI

The Artelize Podcast and Adolfo Corrado: Mediterranean flavors, opera and social media

Don’t miss this chance to hear one of today’s fastest-rising stars, as Japanese pianist Mao Fujita celebrates the music of Mozart — whose complete sonatas he recorded — along with pieces by Beethoven and Chopin. “It was obvious from the very beginning,” writes The Guardian of his Wigmore Hall debut, “that he does have something personal and fresh to bring to these works.”

Mao Fujita

Shostakovich’s Eleventh Symphony unfolds with the immediacy of a newsreel as it depicts the harrowing events of the 1905 Russian Revolution. Brimming with rebellious anthems and prisoners’ songs, the Cold War-era score is widely heard as a veiled critique of the Soviet regime. Rachmaninov’s First Piano Concerto, a farewell to Russia, features the captivating Simon Trpčeski.

Hrůša, Trpčeski & Rachmaninov

Journey up the Rhine River, as lovingly portrayed in Robert Schumann’s Rhenish Symphony. Listen for the flowing water and contemplate the majesty of the Cologne Cathedral. To begin, Nikolaj Szeps-Znaider leads and performs the rich and alluring melodies of Bruch’s First Violin Concerto. Pierre Boulez’s iridescent Livre pour cordes marks the centenary of the composer’s birth.

Bruch & Schumann Rhenish

Wheaton College

Internationally acclaimed violinist Julia Fischer, who dazzled CSO audiences in 2023 with the “gorgeous singing tone” of her playing (Chicago Classical Voice), teams up with piano sensation Jan Lisiecki, “a player of exceptional poise and refinement” (BBC Music Magazine). Works by Mozart, Beethoven and Schumann showcase their dynamic partnership.

Julia Fischer & Jan Lisiecki

Emma, Robert and Jerry have history. The “eternal triangle” takes center stage in an inventive retelling by the Nobel Prize-winning playwright. As Emma’s marriage to Robert comes to an end, she reconnects with Jerry, her former lover—and her husband’s best friend. The action unspools backward in time, uncovering hidden truths and revealing how little we know about those we think we know so much about. Acclaimed stage and screen actor Helen Hunt (Mad About You, As Good As It Gets) makes her Goodman debut in this “elegy about time and memory (where) the greatest dramatic weight lies in what’s unspoken, in the darkness of unsorted feelings” (New York Times).

Betrayal

Goodman Theatre

Experience the magic and whimsy of Shakespeare's beloved romantic comedy, "A Midsummer Night’s Dream," like never before at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater. This enchanting production, adapted and directed by the renowned Edward Hall, promises to captivate audiences with its portrayal of young love, foolishness, and the delightful chaos brought on by magic and enchantment. Set in the intimate Courtyard Theater, this adaptation is part of the Short Shakespeare series, designed to introduce the wonders of Shakespeare to middle and high school students from across the region.

From February 8 to March 8, 2025, the theater will host a special five-week run of school matinees, welcoming over 20,000 students to experience the exhilaration of this timeless story. Additionally, the public will have the opportunity to enjoy this 75-minute production during Saturday performances, making it a perfect weekend outing for families, Shakespeare enthusiasts, and newcomers alike.

Edward Hall, celebrated for his dynamic and engaging adaptations, shares his excitement about creating this Short Shakes production. He aims to warm hearts and delight souls, inspiring young audiences and future artists with a comedy that resonates across ages. This production is a testament to the Chicago Shakespeare Theater's ongoing commitment to providing exceptional theater experiences for young people.

Don't miss this opportunity to dive into a world where the boundaries between dream and reality blur, and love leads the way through a night of enchantment and laughter. With no intermission, the 75-minute run time ensures a captivating experience from start to finish. Tickets will go on sale later this summer, so be sure to mark your calendars for a magical journey to the heart of Shakespeare's imagination at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier.

Short Shakespeare A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Chicago Shakespeare Theater

**Chicago Shakespeare Theater Presents: Hamlet From Peru**

**Dates:** March 13 - 23, 2025  
**Location:** Upstairs at Chicago Shakespeare, 800 East Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611  
**Language:** Performed in Spanish with projected English translation  
**Run Time:** Approximately 90 minutes with no intermission  
**Tickets:** Available later this summer

In an extraordinary blend of Shakespeare's timeless drama and vibrant personal storytelling, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater (CST) is thrilled to present a world premiere from March 13 to 23, 2025: *Hamlet From Peru*. This unique production, presented in partnership with the Chicago Latino Theater Alliance (CLATA), brings to the stage a group of young performers with Down syndrome from Teatro La Plaza in Lima, Peru. Directed by the acclaimed Chela De Ferrari, this adaptation of *Hamlet* promises a joyful celebration of self-expression and a profound theatrical experience.

The performers weave Shakespeare’s classic text with personal anecdotes, exploring the central theme of "To be or not to be" through their own life experiences. This lively and profound performance is enhanced with a mix of pop music, dance, and wry humor, offering a provocative look at questions of inclusion and discrimination. It's a bold and energetic reimagining of one of Shakespeare's most famous works, promising to be a memorable event for all attendees.

Jorge Valdivia, CLATA’s executive director, expresses excitement for this unique adaptation, highlighting its importance as a representation of Latine actors and its potential to teach and inspire audiences with its fresh perspective on Shakespeare's work.

Don't miss this limited engagement at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier. It's not only a chance to experience a classic play through a new lens but also an opportunity to support an inclusive and innovative approach to theater.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Chicago Shakespeare Theater's website or contact the box office at 312.595.5600.

Hamlet

**Sunny Afternoon at Chicago Shakespeare Theater**

**Dates:** March 21 - April 27, 2025  
**Location:** The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare, 800 East Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611

**About the Show:**  
Dive into the electrifying journey of The Kinks' rise to fame with the North American Premiere of "Sunny Afternoon." This award-winning musical, capturing four Olivier Awards including Best New Musical, showcases the band's tumultuous ascent through their own iconic songs like "You Really Got Me," "Lola," and "All Day and All of the Night." With an original story, music, and lyrics by The Kinks’ legendary Ray Davies and a script by Joe Penhall, "Sunny Afternoon" offers an unforgettable rock-and-roll experience. Directed by Edward Hall, who led the world premiere in London, the musical promises a personal and timeless narrative straight from Davies' perspective, highlighting the family's collaborative spirit and the universal struggle of overcoming life's challenges.

**Duration:** Approximately 2 hours, 40 minutes, including intermission

**Tickets:** Available later this summer. For more information, visit the Chicago Shakespeare Theater's website or contact the Box Office at 312.595.5600.

**Additional Information:**  
- Parking and dining options are available at the venue.  
- For those interested in supporting the arts, consider becoming a sponsor or donating to the Chicago Shakespeare Theater.

Join us for a mesmerizing performance that celebrates the legacy of The Kinks and the power of music to transcend time. Don't miss this rock-and-roll journey through the highs and lows of one of the most influential bands in history.

Sunny Afternoon

In a sweltering motel room in the Mojave Desert, May and Eddie lick their wounds and get ready for another relentless round. This brawl is eternal and infernal. And the Old Man is always watching.

Fool For Love

Steppenwolf Theatre Company

Grace looks for the good in everything: in her husband’s rules, in the border he patrols, in the return of his estranged son. But a want for goodness cannot unwind the past, as this taut family reunion explodes in all directions. The Chicago premiere of Suzan Lori-Parks’ The Book of Grace is an incendiary family portrait from the Pulitzer Prize-winning writer of Topdog/Underdog. Witness this startling reminder that the search for common ground can be bloody and brutal, leaving casualties on every side of the divide.

The Book Of Grace

Join us for a monumental celebration of Handel's "Theodora" presented by Music of the Baroque. This event marks a special occasion in honor of Principal Guest Conductor Nicholas Kraemer's 80th birthday. Experience the dramatic masterpiece that Handel himself regarded as his personal favorite, telling the poignant story of the virtuous martyr Theodora and her Roman protector Didymus.

Under the baton of Nicholas Kraemer, a world-renowned cast of soloists including Sherezade Panthaki (soprano), Iestyn Davies (tenor), Allyson McHardy (mezzo-soprano), David Portillo (tenor), and Jonathan Woody (bass-baritone), alongside the Music of the Baroque Chorus & Orchestra, will bring this epic work to life. The performances promise an unforgettable experience, showcasing the depth of Handel's musical genius.

Event Details:
- **Dates and Times**:
  - Sunday, March 2, 2025, at 7:30 PM at North Shore Center, Skokie
  - Monday, March 3, 2025, at 7:30 PM at Harris Theater, Chicago
  - Friday, March 7, 2025, at 5:00 PM available On Demand

Don't miss this opportunity to witness one of Handel's great dramatic masterpieces performed by an exceptional ensemble. Subscribe and save to ensure your spot at this must-see event.

Handel's Theodora

Harris Theater for Music and Dance

North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie

### Golden Hour by Joffrey Ballet

**Event Overview:**
Bask in the glow of "Golden Hour," a radiant mixed repertoire program presented by the Joffrey Ballet. This captivating event will take place from February 20 to March 2, 2025, at the Lyric Opera House. The program promises an evening of warmth and splendor, featuring a blend of world premieres and audience favorites.

**Performance Details:**

1. **Princess and the Pea**
   - **Choreography:** Dani Rowe
   - **Music:** Jim Stephenson
   - **Description:** Australian choreographer Dani Rowe, known for her rich, flowing, and contemporary style, presents a modern re-envisioning of Hans Christian Andersen’s timeless fairy tale, "Princess and the Pea."

2. **Heimat**
   - **Choreography:** Cathy Marston
   - **Music:** Richard Wagner
   - **Description:** Cathy Marston’s "Heimat" is a dance interpretation of Wagner's symphonic poem "Siegfried Idyll." It paints a serene picture of a family in the Swiss countryside and explores the concept of "heimat," a term that suggests a place of spiritual and creative familiarity.

3. **Under the Trees' Voices**
   - **Choreography:** Nicolas Blanc
   - **Music:** Ezio Bosso
   - **Description:** Set to Symphony No. 2 by Bosso, Nicolas Blanc’s "Under the Trees’ Voices" examines the persistence of community and connection in the age of distance and isolation. The piece imagines a future of hope and unity, reminding us that we are better together than alone.

4. **Andante**
   - **Choreography:** Yuri Possokhov
   - **Music:** Dmitri Shostakovich
   - **Description:** Renowned choreographer Yuri Possokhov returns with an intimate world premiere set on three dancers. Possokhov is celebrated for his critically acclaimed works, including "Anna Karenina," "The Miraculous Mandarin," and "Don Quixote."

**Choreographers:**
- **Dani Rowe:** Artistic Director of Oregon Ballet Theatre, known for her works with San Francisco Ballet, Nederlands Dans Theater, and more.
- **Cathy Marston:** Award-winning choreographer and Artistic Director of Ballett Zürich.
- **Nicolas Blanc:** Chicago-based choreographer and Rehearsal Director at The Joffrey Ballet, with works created for New York City Ballet, Rome Opera Ballet, and San Francisco Ballet.
- **Yuri Possokhov:** Renowned dancer and choreographer with creations for The Joffrey Ballet, The Australian Ballet, San Francisco Ballet, Royal Danish Ballet, and Bolshoi Ballet.

**Venue:**
- **Location:** Lyric Opera House
- **Dates:** February 20 - March 2, 2025

Join the Joffrey Ballet for an unforgettable evening of dance that celebrates the beauty of human connection and artistic expression.

Golden Hour 

Lyric Opera House

“Is the American Dream at the expense of the American Negro?” This was the topic on February 18, 1965 when an overflow crowd packed the Cambridge Union in Cambridge, England, to bear witness to a historic televised debate between James Baldwin, the leading literary voice of the civil rights movement, and William F. Buckley Jr., a fierce critic of the movement and America’s most influential conservative intellectual. The stage was set for an epic confrontation that pitted Baldwin’s call for a moral revolution in race relations against Buckley’s unabashed elitism and implicit commitment to white supremacy. This historic clash reveals the deep roots and lasting legacy of racial conflict that continues to haunt America.

Debate: Baldwin vs. Buckley

DePaul University Welcome Center

### Event Description: Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández at the Auditorium Theatre

**Event Dates:**  
Saturday, March 1, 2025 - Sunday, March 2, 2025

**Event Overview:**  
Celebrate the stunning and visually opulent history, culture, music, and dance of Mexico with Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández. This world-renowned dance company, founded in 1952 by the legendary dancer and choreographer Amalia Hernández, brings together the rich tapestry of Mexican folklore, from pre-Colombian civilizations to the modern era. 

**Performance Highlights:**  
- **Renowned Choreography:** Experience the acclaimed choreography of Amalia Hernández, which has captivated audiences worldwide.
- **Live Music:** Be moved by the live music that accompanies the dancers, creating a whirling, kaleidoscopic splendor.
- **Cultural Showcase:** The performance features the music, dance, and costumes of Mexican folklore, offering a vibrant and immersive cultural experience.

**Company Background:**  
Ballet Folklórico de México has its permanent home at the Palacio de Bellas Artes, one of Mexico City’s most historic venues. The company has developed choreography for 40 ballets and is composed of 60 folk dancers and musicians who have performed extensively across Mexico and abroad.

**Ticket Information:**  
- **Tickets Start At:** $30.00
- **Purchase Tickets:** [Get Tickets](#)

Join us at the Auditorium Theatre for an unforgettable celebration of Mexican heritage through the art of dance and music.

Ballet Folklórico de México de Amalia Hernández

Roosevelt University

### Event Description: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at the Auditorium Theatre

**Event Dates:** Friday, March 7, 2025 - Sunday, March 9, 2025  
**Location:** Auditorium Theatre, Chicago  
**Ticket Price:** Starting at $39.00

#### Event Overview:
Returning to their Chicago home, the illustrious Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, a company with a 65-year legacy, brings incredible show-stopping performances to the Auditorium Theatre. This event promises to showcase the latest premieres, contemporary favorites, and beloved masterpieces that are both timely and timeless, as highlighted by the Chicago Tribune.

#### Historical Significance:
On March 30, 1958, Alvin Ailey led a group of young African-American modern dancers in a groundbreaking performance at the 92nd Street Y in New York City, forever changing the perception of American dance. Alvin Ailey was a pioneer in establishing a multi-racial repertory company that presented important works by both dance masters and emerging choreographers.

#### Artistic Legacy:
Through the remarkable artistry of extraordinary dancers, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater continues to celebrate the African-American cultural experience and to preserve and enrich the American modern dance tradition. With a repertory of over 235 works by more than 90 choreographers and a permanent home at The Joan Weill Center for Dance in New York City—the largest building dedicated to dance in New York City—the Ailey legacy flourishes. The company uses the universal language of dance as a medium for honoring the past, celebrating the present, and fearlessly reaching into the future.

#### Experience:
Attendees will have the opportunity to witness the extraordinary talent and creativity of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, experiencing performances that are both innovative and deeply rooted in cultural heritage.

**Get your tickets now and be part of an unforgettable celebration of dance and culture!**

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

The cool of the Arctic meets the warmth of Italy. The brooding, majestic themes of Sibelius’ Fifth Symphony evoke the remote landscapes of conductor Santtu-Matias Rouvali’s native Finland. Tchaikovsky transports listeners to a Roman carnival in his Capriccio Italien. Seong-Jin Cho, lauded for his “expert music-making … miraculous in its execution” (The New York Times), takes on Prokofiev’s incendiary Second Piano Concerto.

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Sunny Afternoon

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Fool For Love

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