Category Archives: Deals
Red Dress Party Chicago April 21 with Beverly McClellan
Chicago Red Dress Party
and visibility for the HIV/AIDS movement and raising funds for
organizations that provide vital community services.
Dress for the fight, end AIDS.
Last years party was a smashing success! And this years event which will be at Joffrey Ballet Studios is expected to be even bigger! The four hour event is a guaranteed great time!
The Voice’s Beverly McClellan has been confirmed to perform at the Chicago Red Dress Party on April 21, 2012 at the Joffrey Ballet Studios. McClellan was a contestant in the “Final 4” on the first season of NBC’s The Voice, an incredibly popular American reality talent show, currently in its second season. ALSO a 2012 GLAAD Outstanding Music Artist Nominee.
The Voice introduced
her to the world as a singer of stunning power and range, comparable to
Etta James, Janis Joplin, Bonnie Raitt and Melissa Etheridge; to name a
few talents whose legacies she evokes. On The Voice, McClellan
chose Team Xtina and was coached by the diva herself. Chicago Red Dress
Party is honored to have the support of such a multi-talented
performer.
While it’s hard to trace the roots of a long standing tradition we’ll do
our best to bring you the history of this grand standing event. In the
early 1990’s two gentlemen were dating when they both contracted
HIV/AIDS. To show their love and dedication they vowed when one of them
passed away the other would attend their funeral adorned in a red dress.
From this promise the concept of the Red Dress Party began. Currently
there are Red Dress Parties all over the United States from Seattle,
Washington to Chicago, IL.
TICKETS HAVE JUST WENT ON SALE! GRAB THEM THIS WEEK AND YOU CAN SAVE!
Prices will gradually increase from March 9th-April 13th. So the quicker you buy – the more you save!
The only rule for the evening is that all guests must wear red.
Farrells Chicago, A New Way To Work Out That Body
OK, I know you have a gym membership.
How long have you been going?
Are you stuck in rut, doing the same routine?
Have you hit a plateau?
Maybe it’s time shake your body up!
My partner and I discovered Farrell’s eXtreme Body Shaping this Winter. We joined the first 10 week session to officially launch in Chicago, in January.
We are in Week 7, and both have seen great results, and plan to continue on with the program this Spring. We have both seen our body fat drop and our muscle mass grow. But everyone has different goals.
OPEN REGISTRATION IS STARTING NOW for the next Session which Begins in April
Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping is a results based fitness program for
participants of any age, lifestyle, sex or athletic ability. The program
was developed by Lance Farrell — a long-time taekwondo competitor and
teacher — specifically to combat obesity and to help people develop
healthy lifestyle habits by incorporating the fat-burning, strengthening
and endurance building aspects of competitive martial arts training
into a course for regular people who aren’t interested in sparring or
contact drills.
In 45 minutes a day, six days a week, (yes! 6 days a week!) Farrell’s can help you make
real changes in your fitness and overall health. Results are typical
with the Farrell’s program. In 10 weeks with Farrell’s, you will see the
eXtreme changes you expect out of your fitness and nutrition
commitments.
The local owner and instructor Jason does an awesome job. He first went through the Farrell’s program in Iowa. Went on to become an instructor, then moved to Chicago last year to open this location.
The Farrell’s program combines four essential elements needed to make eXtreme changes in your bodyshape:
- Cardiovascular exercise to Burn Fat
- Strength training to Build Muscle
- Nutrition plan to help you Eat Healthy
- Instructors and coaches to keep you Encouraged throughout your journey
“Our mission is simple: We want to inspire you to live your life with power and purpose.
We are in business to help our members transform their lives —we have
helped over 30,000 people (and counting!), and we are ready to help you
too!“
FARRELL’S eXtreme Body Shaping
If you show up to class and follow the plan, YOU WILL SEE RESULTS!
Guaranteed – or your money back.
Don’t miss the next session of classes – and get a banging beach body NOW!
Farrell’s eXtreme Body Shaping
821 W. Blackhawk Off Halsted, S. of North Ave.
312-624-9794
JOIN FXB.com
Civil Unions Burdened with Complex Illinois State Income Tax Rules
By Linu Thomas
Civil Unions became effective on June 1, 2011 in Illinois through the Illinois Religious Freedom Protection and Civil Union Act.
Under this law, partners in a civil union must file a joint Illinois Income Tax returns as married couples beginning in January. Although, the Illinois Department of Revenue did not make it clear if they were going to accept joint returns when the law went into effect, it has now mandated them. Because partners in a same-sex civil union cannot file joint federal returns, they will have to take special steps this year to file their Illinois returns.
If you are an opposite-sex civil union and you and your partner are treated as spouses for federal income tax purposes, you have the option to file an Illinois state income tax return as married filing jointly or married filing separately just like any other married couple. This favorable filing status for federal purposes does not apply for same-sex civil unions. Because same-sex civil unions are not recognized under federal law, partners to a same-sex civil union are not permitted to file joint federal income tax returns or to claim tax breaks or protections that the federal government affords to married spouses.
For state purposes, Illinois allows same-sex civil unions to file a state income tax return either as married filing jointly or married filing separately, but the Illinois Department of Revenue does not make it easy for these couples to be compliant. In order to file either married filing jointly or married filing separately you must complete a “mock” federal return with the same filing status you picked for the state return. For example, if you and your same-sex partner choose to file a joint Illinois return, you must complete a federal “as-if-married-filing-jointly” return, for Illinois purposes only. Also, if you and your same-sex partner choose to file separate Illinois returns, you must complete federal “as-if-married filing separately” returns, for Illinois purposes only. It is very important that you do not send the “mock” federal return you prepared to the IRS. The “mock” returns will be used for Illinois purposes only. When completing your “mock” federal return please include all schedules and attachments, applying all the federal rules for the married filing status you choose. In addition, on the Illinois income tax return you must enter “as-if-married” federal information where Illinois requires federal information. The worst part of this process is that same-sex civil unions will not be allowed to properly file using electronic methods (E-File). Same-sex civil unions must file a paper return.
Special Situations
Special situations you may encounter while completing your federal “as-if-married” return for IL state income tax purposes only.
Earned Income Credit – You must compute your federal earned income credit using the income of both partners in order to properly calculate the correct amount for the state.
“As-if-Married-Filing-Separately” – If you choose this filing method for your “mock” federal return remember that you cannot claim an earned income credit or receive a federal deduction for student loan interest and higher education tuition.
Capital Losses – If you have a net capital loss this year or a net capital loss carryover to this year and offset it against your partner’s capital gain on a recomputed joint return, you may not carry your capital loss over to any other year, even if you file separately in that year or file a joint return with a different spouse.
Net-Operating Losses – If you have a federal net operating loss this year or a federal net operating loss carryback or carryover to this year and you use that loss to offset income of your partner on a recomputed joint return, you may not carry that loss to any other year, even if you file separately in that year or file a joint return with a different spouse.
Please refer to the Illinois Department of Revenue website for additional information on same-sex civil union tax filing procedures or call Provident Light Advisors at 866-256-9621 to schedule an appointment to discuss your return. Provident Light Advisors LLC provides accounting, tax, and consulting services. We are simple, honest, and affordable. Since we are a family owned business we treat our customers as members of our own family. No matter what the time of the day we are here to answer your accounting and tax questions. Provident Light Advisors is also a proud member of the Chicago Area Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce.
Linu Thomas, Partner
Provident Light Advisors LLC
22 W. Washington Street Suite 1500, Chicago, IL 60602
(312) 957-5751
FAT TUESDAY at CREW in Uptown Feb 21
You are not in New Orleans this week?
No Problem.
Stop by CREW BAR + GRILL!
CREW BAR + GRILL
4804 N. Broadway Chicago, IL
Phone: 773 784
CREW (2739)
Big Gay Brunch Club at Adriactic Cafe Restaurant Feb 19
Sunday Feb 19th 1pm-3pm, BIG GAY BRUNCH CLUB CHICAGO takes over Adriatic Restaurant in Andersonville!
Though the family that owns this Edgewater spot is Serbian, much of the
menu isn’t. Many of the meals do feature ingredients used in traditional
Serbian cuisine, but the owners have worked to Americanize the entrees.
The result: comfort food with a Mediterranean twist. Specialties
include the Adriatic plate, a carnivore’s dream of mixed meats such as
pork chops, chicken and liver; a daily fish special; and housemade
cevapcici.
Bottomless Sangria and mimosa’s. And an amazing buffet for $25 inclusive of tax and gratuity.
For appetizers:
Hummus
Kaymak ( homemade type of cream cheese)
Creamy rolls (made with ham, smoked meat, cheese, sour cream)
Meze ( smoked meats chicken, beef and pork, mozzarella cheese, feta cheese, olives)
Spicy feta spread , Capraise sandwich, Cornbread
Salads:
Green salad, Tomato, Cucumber, Pickled vegetables, Potato salad
Soup of the day
Main course:
Sarma (stuffed cabbage), Pork schnitzel , Breaded fish, Veal with veggie, Chicken in mushroom sauce
Beans , Grilled mixed meat , Rice, Mashed potato, Grilled vegetables, Baked potato
RSVP on Facebook. $25 cash at the door.
5553 N. Clark St.
I Heart Red party – A Pre Red Dress Party Feb 9th
Check this out! $20
Hosted Bar for 3 hours, plus small bites,
plus a raffle drawing, plus fun people!
PLUS, you’re helping a great cause!
Join Chicago Red Dress Party and our host Clive Christian Studios for I {HEART} Red. This design filled event will take place on Thursday February, 9, 2012 from 6:00p-9:00p at Clive Christian Studios, 222 Merchandise Mart, Suite 143.
Registration includes an open bar, small bites, and a “red” raffle.
Check out Facebook for more details.
$20 in advance $25 at the door.
BestGayChicago.com is a proud sponsor
of the 2012 Red Dress Party! 4-21-12
Taverna 750 Big Gay Brunch Club Party Jan 15th
BGBC takes over
Taverna750 JAN 15th!
Taverna750 is Boystown’s newest chic hipster hotspot — that IS NOT overpriced, as one might expect for a cool spot with awesome food and drinks. Taverna 750 is the best of old school Italian with a contemporary flair.
Jan. 15th – Join BGBC from 11-1
$25 (CASH ONLY)
inclusive of tax and gratuity or pizza or entree –
plus soda, tea and coffee in addition to the unlimited mimosas and adult chocolate milk.
LOTS of food choices to pick from!
RSVP on FACEBOOK
1:00 the party will move over to Scarlett, 3320 North Halsted Street
with some champagne, music, dancing and more!
PLUS, we’ll be giving everyone free passes to see
the new Glenn Close Film, ALBERT NOBBS!
PLUS, we’ll be giving everyone $10 gift cards
for UBER BLACK CAR SERVICE!
BestGayChicago.com is a proud sponsor of BGBC!
LIKE US on Facebook for Special Stuff
Ok – I don’t get it. We have 7500 friends on Facebook (Michael Snell and Derrick Sorles)
yet only a couple hundred people LIKE US for BEST GAY CHICAGO.
Did you know, if you LIKE US – we won’t bother you. But we will start offering those who LIKE US, special contests and special invitations to parties we host in Chicago! Don’t you want to be special??
So what are you waiting for – LIKE US!!
Big Gay Brunch Club Chicago at Taverna750 Jan 15
BGBC dives into the New Year
@ Taverna750 JAN 15th!
Taverna750 is Boystown’s newest chic hipster hotspot — that IS NOT overpriced, as one might expect for a cool spot with awesome food and drinks.
Taverna 750 is the best of old school Italian with a contemporary flair.
Proprietor Paul D. Cannella is bringing back his Grandfather Paul J.
Loverde’s and Uncle Chuckie Abruzzini’s classic Italian recipes from his
restaurant on Grand Avenue in the 50’s.
Jan. 15th – Join BGBC from 11-1
$25 (CASH ONLY)
inclusive of tax and gratuity or pizza or entree –
plus soda, tea and coffee in addition to the unlimited mimosas and adult chocolate milk.
LOTS of food choices to pick from!
BANANA CRESPELLE (crepe)
Caramelized banana, chocolate, sweet ricotta and maple balsamic anglaise
BERRY CRESPELLE (crepe)
Balsamic soaked mixed berries, sweet ricotta and grapefruit anglaise
PINWHEEL
Egg rolled with, Italian sausage, spinach, balsamic red peppers, asiago cheese and basil cream sauce
STUFFED TOMATOES
Warm lump seafood salad, wilted spinach and poached egg
SPINACH AND ARTICHOKE FRITATA
Asiago cheese, seared basil and parmesan polenta cake and red pepper coulis, candied bacon
Pizzas, Pannins and More to choose from!
1:00 the party will move over to Scarlett, 3320 North Halsted Street
with some champagne, music, dancing and more!
RSVP on FACEBOOK
Taverna 750, the latest ZAGAT rated hotspot in Chicago’s East Lakeview / Boystown!
BestGayChicago.com is a proud sponsor of BGBC!
UBER New Chicago Black Car Service Taxi
Going to a nice party and you’re all dressed up…and you have to crawl into a dirty smelly yellow cab? ICK!
What about fighting for a cab on a busy Saturday night? How fun is that? Especially if it is freezing cold outside?!
Personal car service has arrived in Chicago! UBER. Everyone’s private driver. A black car service, on demand, from your phone! What could be easier? While most black car or executive car services require a 24 hour advanced notice, this is on demand.
For years I have used black car services in New York City. But still, you usually need to give some kind of advance notice.
Now you can request a car from any mobile phone—text message, iPhone and Android apps. Uber will send the nearest driver to pick you up, and text message you an estimated arrival time. Cars usually arrive within 5-10 minutes. You can even track your driver right from your phone.
Your licensed professional driver will park curbside in a sleek black car. Uber will text you again when the car arrives. Hop in the car, tell the driver your destination and you’ll be on your way.
The fee’s are automatically charged to your credit card on file, and tip is included. No fuss with money and change. It is the law in Chicago, a cab driver MUST take your credit card. But how many times do they grumble or say their machine is broken?!
“We’re changing the way people are getting around by offering a convenient, cashless, and stylish on demand car request service from your mobile phone.”
Sign up with Uber.com and download the app. It’s that easy!
Sign up at UBER or by downloading the app and inputting “BESTGAY”. These special promo codes for our readers will get your $10 off your first ride.
Sure it’s a few dollars more than a cab. But it’s worth it to arrive in style and comfort. For me, I found it most economical to ride from Boystown to downtown for events, via Lake Shore Drive. If the cars have to cut through the city,and zig zag in traffic, the bill can get a little higher. But it’s about convenience. And a luxury ride.
Uber takes GPS data from your ride and charges for distance or time depending on your speed. When your Uber is traveling over 11mph, they charge a distance fee. When your Uber is traveling at or below 11mph, they charge a time fee. There is never extra charges for late night rides, weekend rides, extra passengers, or luggage fees, it’s always the same rate.
“We carefully select which fleet partners we work with and ensure that they have all the proper licensing. We’ve also implemented a rating system for drivers. If his or her rating goes beneath a certain level, we will no longer do business with them. We’re careful to maintain a standard of only doing business with quality, licensed drivers.
When Uber was started it was a service used by us and our friends. We will never allow our friends to be put into an uncomfortable or dangerous situation because of our service. One of the most important points about Uber service is to get away from those types of situations when looking for transportation around the city.“
Currently “UBER – Your Private Driver” in 7 cities:
San Francisco, NYC, Seattle, Boston, Washington, DC, Paris and now Chicago!
Christmas Day and New Years Eve at Kit Kat Lounge
Looking for something to
do Christmas Day?
or Christmas evening??
Look no further!
Christmas Day Jingle Bell Brunch!
With live entertainment by Madam X.
At KIT KAT LOUNGE.
With half-price Martinis!
Then Christmas Evening, get 50% off your entire bill – if you bring a canned good donation
for VITAL BRIDGES.
5:30pm-2am
NEW YEARS EVE Kit Kat will offer 2 seatings at 7pm and 10pm
Four course dinner , Traci Ross and more! Get your reservations now!
PH 773.525.1111
KIT KAT
3700 N. Halsted, Chicago, IL
El Mariachi Chicago Celebrates New Years Eve and New Years Day
Our FAVORITE Mexican restaurant,
El Mariachi Tequila Bar,
3906 N. Broadway,
is celebrating with New Years Eve
& New Years Day Specials!
New Years Eve –
enjoy a fabulous 3 course prix-fixe dinner
The menu will include a glass if champagne, soup or
salad, a choice of entree (Surf&Turf, Chicken, or their famous Tilapia) and a dessert. $29.99
(regular menu will also be available)
There will be 3 seatings on New Years Eve:
5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Reservations are recomended (773) 549-2932
NEW YEARS DAY –
$20 FREE FLOWING MIMOSA BRUNCH NEW YEARS DAY SUNDAY 11:00A.M. TO 3:00P.M.
2012 – Get The Body You Want with Farrell’s Extreme Body Shaping
This year, as I turned 45, I realized my body WAS NOT what it used to be.
When I had to buy a bigger pant size, THAT WAS IT. ENOUGH. I am getting my body back. I did just quit smoking – now I need to back on a fitness regimen.
A friend told me Farrell’s Extreme Body Shaping was about to open in Lincoln Park. I looked at the photos, talked to the owner (who is gay) and joined!
Farrell’s located on 821 W. Blackhawk Street in Lincoln Park is the newest of the FXB facilities. (Right near North and Clybourn).
It is owned and operated by Jason Hedden and Bret Sharp. Jason is a long-time member, Instructor and Coach in the FXB program. He began his journey in 2007 having lost 32 pounds in 10 Weeks and 9% body-fat.
He has a background in Martial Arts and holds a black belt in Tae Kwon. He has managed and operated two facilities in Iowa. He moved to Chicago from Iowa with his husband, Danny, in order to open his own FXB facility.
“Our fitness facilities provide a
family atmosphere where everyone, regardless of their beginning fitness level,
feels welcome. We stand proudly on our track record of helping real
people see real results. Our graduation rate is very strong. More
than 80% of people who begin our 10-Week program, finish, and everyone who
completes the 10-Week Challenge will see results.” says Jason.
Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping®
is a body changing, life-style transforming fitness program designed to help you quickly improve your fitness level.
“In ten weeks, our students make positive, permanent changes to their health, strength, appearance and confidence.”
Farrell’s is different than the traditional health club, gym or fitness center.
Every class is an instructor led group fitness experience. Your coach and teammates are always right there to help you stay motivated and to push you to find your level 10.
Farrell’s® 10-Week Challenge combines exercise through fitness kickboxing and strength training, nutrition, a coach, certified instructors, teammates and a $1000 contest to motivate you to transformation. The Farrell’s team will lead you to a healthy lifestyle, weight loss, increased lean muscle mass and complete body transformation.
COME JOIN ME ON MY JOURNEY!
First session launches in just a couple weeks!
Make it your New Years Resolution, like I did, to live a better, healthier, more fit lifestyle!
Call Jason for more details
319-325-6620
And Mention US!
Farrells Extreme Body Shaping Chicago
Big Gay Brunch Club Chicago does Anna Maria Dec. 11
BIG GAY BRUNCH CLUB (BGBC)
is off to Italy in Chicago for December!
Sunday, December 11, 2011
12:00pm until 2:00pm
4400 N. Clark Street @ Montrose
$35 cash at the door includes –
3 courses – plus unlimited mimosas, bloody marys, soft drinks, coffee, tea.
Course 1 – choice of small Caesar salad – or Orange Salad, with cranberries & walnuts
Course 2 – choice of
Italian Frittata w/ mushroom and asparagus
Cheese Tortellini Carbonara – w/ prosciutto, peas, eggs, cream sauce
Egg Plant Parmigiana w/ marinara sauce and fresh mozzarella
Traditional sausage & peppers & potatoes
Course 3 – a sampling of their famous Tiramisu!
(They are famous for their Tiramisu!)
Just a few blocks from Boystown and Andersonville, is Anna Marie Pasteria–
a little hidden gem with great Italian food and consistently voted best
tiramisu in the city of Chicago! Service is always great and the food
is always great in this quaint little spot ran by 2 sisters. No fancy avante garde food here – just traditional old world recipes.
RSVP on Facebook!
$20 Champagne Brunch at El Mariachi Tequila Bar and Restaurant
BRUNCH at El Mariachi just got even better! This week they introduce the $20 Champagne Brunch with free flowing Mimosas.
Saturdays & Sundays are great for brunch at EL Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill. Their superb Champagne Mimosa Brunch has an extensive Brunch menu which includes chilaquiles, skillets, omelettes, tortas and lots of Mexican favorites. The food here is always EXCELLENT!
All Breakfast items are made to order and freshly prepared.
Adrian, one of the two brothers who helps run the restaurant has been working with his father since the age of 11! He prides himself on quality management. “We pride ourselves on selecting quality ingredients and not skimping to save a few pennies, like some restaurants might do. Everything is fresh and made to order. “
If you love guacamole, you have to get it here and they make it to order tableside. It’s ALWAYS good. Never thinned down like some restaurants will blend in sour cream. Just fresh, pure, quality ingredients. Just recently a new chef came onboard and suggested they add just a few drops of avocado oil to the guacamole which gives it a nice smooth texture and finish.
The $20 Champagne Brunch is offered Saturdays and Sundays, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm.
EL Mariachi’s custom roasted coffee and an entree from our brunch menu are included. And unlimited Mimosas.
El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill’s is simply perfect for any occasion. It’s the perfect setting for big get togethers or a casual afternoon between friends!
El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill 3906 N Broadway Ph. 773.549.2932
Hubbard Street Dance to Open Series with Twyla Tharp Premiere
“When Glenn and I met we discussed many ideas,” notes Twyla Tharp. “When he asked me for a new work, I thought to myself, ‘Great, I’ve always enjoyed the vitality of Hubbard Street dancers and I have a long-term relationship with the company.’ I look forward to working with the new dancers and creating, what I believe, will be a very special dance – one that will challenge me as well as them.” Known for her playful style, Twyla Tharp returns to Hubbard Street Dance Chicago after 15 years where she was instrumental in creating and setting a plush repertoire of work, helping to form the renowned dance company that exists today. Beginning the creative process in June 2011 and returning to Hubbard Street Dance Center in early September, Tharp is deep in the creative process of this new commission. Currently untitled, Tharp’s new work is set to a selection of sonatas by Domenico Scarlatti, which is helping to inform the structure of the piece. This world premiere will also feature costumes from fashion icon Norma Kamali’s fall collection.
The world-renowned and celebrated Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, led by Artistic Director Glenn Edgerton, will launch its 34th season with the most anticipated dance event of the year featuring a world premiere by dance legend Twyla Tharp; the return of the reflective Arcangelo by Nacho Duato based on the marvelous Concerti Grossi by Arcangelo Corelli; and the hilariously bizarre Walking Mad by Johan Inger.
This eclectic engagement will take place at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph Drive, in four performances only, October 13-16, 2011.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago has created a new subscription series offer for the LGBT community – an offer that combines dance and culture with an opportunity to mix, mingle and network!
For $200 a subscription gets you THREE premiere section seats and an pre-performance cocktail party! What is not to love about that?
Call 312-850-9744 ext 167 and mention OUT FOR DANCE to get this special pricing package!
Hubbard Street Dance
Best Gay Chicago.com
OVO Announces 50% off certain shows and certain seats
OVO is a headlong rush into a colourful ecosystem teeming with life, where insects work, eat, crawl, flutter, play, fight and look for love in a non-stop riot of energy and movement.
The insects’ home is a world of biodiversity and beauty filled with noisy action and moments of quiet emotion.
Currently at the United Center, OVO has announced 50% off certain tickets. Check it out online!
The theatre/tent is smaller this time – Ovo only uses about 75% of the tent. I don’t think there is a bad seat in the house!
Get a sneak peak of OVO online.
Chicago Dancing Festival Returns FREE TICKETS
While all events are free, tickets for the indoor performance showcases must be reserved in advance. In 2010, tickets for the Festival “sold out” within two hours of being released.
Tickets will be available to the general public beginning Tuesday, July 19 in a staggered format so that each venue releases its tickets on a different day, as follows:
Tickets for performances at the Museum of Contemporary Art, including the MCA Moves programs on Wednesday, August 24 and the Muses program on Friday, August 26, will be released on Tuesday, July 19 beginning at 10:00 am. Tickets will be available in person at the MCA Stage Box Office, 220 E. Chicago Avenue, on line at MCAchicago.org or by calling 312-397-4010. Limit of two (2) tickets per order, per evening of performance, while available. Any tickets unclaimed at 15 minutes prior to curtain time will be released to customers on wait list. Wait list begins one hour before the performance, in person only.
Tickets for all performances at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, including both Moderns programs on Tuesday and Wednesday, August 23 and 24, will be released on Wednesday, July 20 beginning at12:00 pm. Tickets will be available in person at the Harris Theater Box Office, 205 E. Randolph Street, or by calling 312-334-7777. Limit of two (2) tickets per order.
Tickets for the performance at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, Masters on Thursday, August 25, will be released on Thursday, July 21 beginning at 11:00 am. Tickets will be available in person at the Auditorium Theatre Box Office, 50 E. Congress Parkway, online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/070046EB7F991A75 or by calling 1-800-982-ARTS. Limit of two (2) tickets per order.
All seating for all venues is general admission.
Unclaimed tickets will be released 15 minutes prior to curtain time.
Because of the popularity of the Festival, audience members not able to secure tickets to the indoor venues are encouraged to attend the Celebration of Dance Grand Finale on the stunning outdoor stage of the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park. No tickets are required for this outdoor performance and all seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Also, no tickets are required for the Movies program at the Chicago Cultural Center, an all-day screening of classic dance films on Friday, August 26 from 10 am to 6 pm.
FULL SCHEDULE AT CHICAGO DANCING FESTIVAL
Center on Halsted ROOFTOP Alfresco Dining Returns July 13
Intimate dining experience on the Richard M. Daley Rooftop at Center on Halsted!
Led by celebrity chef Dan Smith of The Hearty Boys, sixteen burgeoning chefs enrolled in the Center’s Silver Fork Culinary Arts Program will present two weeks of fantastic four-course al fresco dining. Each week will focus on a different regional cuisine and feature dishes from guest celebrity chefs.
The Silver Fork Program at Center on Halsted is a twelve-week vocational training program for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and allied young adults and adults (ages 18+), especially those who are unemployed or underemployed. The Dining on the Rooftop series is an opportunity for Silver Fork participants to showcase their new knowledge about fine cuisine and front-of-house dinner service. Potential employers will be in attendance at the dinners to discuss employment opportunities with the new graduates. Wednesday, July 13 and Thursday, July 14; 6PM Italy Under the Stars In our first week of the Dining on the Rooftop series, our young chefs will explore the savory and bold flavors developed over the centuries in the rolling hills of Italy. Expect refreshing appetizers, hearty pasta dishes, and tasty sweets from the birthplace of the Renaissance. Wine lovers should consider bringing a Chianti or a Cabernet Sauvignon to compliment tomato sauces. Beer lovers will prefer an American blonde ale or light lager for the evening. Wednesday, July 20 and Thursday, July 21; 6PM Une Nuit a Paris In the second week of our series, our chefs will make Julie and Julia blush as they master the art of French cooking. Traditional and modern techniques will be employed to achieve the refined flavors of several regions of France. Guests should consider bringinga Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to balance the French flavors, or sneak across the French border by pairing with a tasty Belgian beer. Tickets are $25, and reservations can be made online at
During each session, 16 participants receive hands-on training in the culinary arts and job readiness training. Graduates of the program leave with BASSET (Beverage and Alcohol Sellers Servers Education and Training) Certification and State of Illinois/City of Chicago Food Safety and Sanitation (FSS) certification, along with the knowledge and skills to be successful placed in the hospitality and restaurant industry. COH also provides case management services to participants to link them to needed resources, and support them through the training, job search, and employment process.
The Schedule:
Centeronhalsted.org. The rooftop will be open for seating at 6pm, and dinner will begin promptly at 6:30pm. “Dining on the Rooftop” is BYOB, and drinks will be chilled and filled throughout the night. Artisanal iced teas and water will also be served. Please be sure to note all food allergies and dietary restrictions on the online registration form to ensure a positive dining experience. Vegetarian dishes will be available.
