Entertainment Calendar
What's happening in the county, the region and Chicago
ART
Kane County
AURORA UNIVERSITY, Dunham Hall, 1400 Marseillaise Place, 630-844-5402 or www.aurora.edu. Hours: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, closed Saturday, 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday (September through May). Schedule: through April 25, With a Little Help from Our Friends: Gifts and Loans from Local Collectors artifact exhibit.
CAMPBELL HOUSE ART GALLERY, Kane County Events, Cultural and Conference Center, 33W848 Cherry Lane, Geneva, 630-208-9567 or www.co.kane.il.us/kcevents. Hours: 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday, closed Saturday, noon to 3 p.m. Sunday. Classes offered 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesdays, taught by Duane Geisness. Watercolor, acrylic and oil painters welcome. Everyone works on the project of their choice. Class registration and information: 630-587-8526.
McHenry County
A WALK WITH ME..., through March 29, Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road, Crystal Lake. McHenry County Conservation District presents a nature photography exhibit by Lori Indovina-Valus. An artist’s view in photographs of the simple beauty surrounding us in McHenry County. Viewing hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. Information: 815-344-5797; 815-459-5779 or Lvalus@comcast.net.
CAFFÉ LUNA, 6230 Northwest Highway, Crystal Lake, 815- 444-0444. Hours: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday. Schedule: through March 29, People & Places: A Black and White photography exhibition by Karen Fleck of Huntley.
FOX VALLEY ART SHOW, through April, McHenry County College, lower wing of Building A, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. The Fox Valley Conference schools will be displaying students’ artwork. Artwork shown will be a representation of the 13 FVC School’s Art Department’s best work of 2D drawing, paintings and prints to 3D ceramics, metals and fibers. Opening reception 6 to 8 p.m. April 3. Information: 815-385-7077.
GALLERY IN THE GARDEN ART SHOW, seeking artists celebrating art and nature for the fourth annual show scheduled for July 25-26 in Woodstock. Last year’s show featured 45 artists in all formats of artistic endeavors including photography, sculpture, water colors and oils. The show raises money for Turning Point to benefit victims of domestic violence. Deadline for applications is April 1. Applications and information: Gale Harris, 815-338-8081 or www.galleryinthegarden.org.
McHENRY COUNTY COLLEGE ART GALLERIES, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake, 815-455-8785. Schedule: through March 28, Lucas Shaffer Photography MCC Alumni Series Exhibit in the Epping Gallery; through April 10, Recent Work MCC Art Department Exhibit in Gallery One; through April, Fox Valley Art Show featuring a display of Fox Valley Conference schools students’ artwork (lower wing of Building A), with a 6 to 8 p.m. April 3 opening reception.
NORTHLAND AREA ART LEAGUE, Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. Meetings at 7 to 9 p.m. second Tuesdays, September through April, at the Opera House. New members welcome.
OLD COURT HOUSE ARTS CENTER, 101 N. Johnson St., Woodstock, 815-338-4525 or www.oldcourthouseartscenter.com. Gallery hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Featuring a variety of artwork in permanent and traveling exhibits.
SPRING CRAFT & VENDOR FAIR, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 4, Heritage Woods of McHenry, 4609 W. Crystal Lake Road, McHenry. A wide variety of crafters and vendors will feature designer purses, hand-dipped chocolates, handcrafted jewelry, Easter items and more. Lunch and snacks available. Free admission. Information: 815-363-4887.
WOODSTOCK OPERA HOUSE, 121 Van Buren St., 815-338-4212 or 815-338-5300. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and during theater performances. Come and view a new exhibit each month presented by local artists in the Community Room of the Woodstock Opera House.
Regional
A SHOWER OF CRAFTS CRAFT & ART FAIR, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 28 and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 29, College of DuPage gym, Park Boulevard & College Street, Glen Ellyn. 150 exhibitors from five states will feature paintings, Easter items, ceramics, candles, home decor, photography, glass art, florals, clothing, jewelry and more. Admission: $3.50 adults, free for children younger than age 12. Information: 815-878-2728.
ARTAVO GALLERIES, Design Pointe Center, 1320 N. Route 59, Naperville, 630-922-5400 or www.artavo.com. Schedule: March 31, Exhibition of the paintings of Gary Benfield. Free.
ART IN THE BARN 2009, artists invited to apply in the Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital Auxiliary’s 35th Annual juried and invited exhibition scheduled for 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 26-27, at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital, 450 W. Highway 22, Barrington. Show will feature paintings, jewelry, photography, sculpture, ceramics, stained and blown glass, woodworking and more. Entry deadline is April 1. For an entry form, visit: www.artinthebarn.org. Information: 847-842-4496 or gshp-artinthebarn@advocatehealth.com.
BARRINGTON/NORTHWEST COMMUNITY ASSOCIATES OF THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO, 847-358-3011. Schedule: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 27, members only excursion to the Art Institute to learn about Edvard Munch and the age of Expressionism. Fee: $60 includes transportation and lectures. Information: 847-358-5837.
CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, 847-835-5440 or www.chicago-botanic.org. Admission is free, select event fees apply. Parking: $15, $7 for seniors on Tuesdays. Schedule: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through April 5, Lost & Found: Remnants of Savannas and Old Growth Forests Miles Lowry Photo Exhibition, in the Joutras Gallery of the Regenstein Center.
NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY ART MUSEUM, Altgeld Hall 116, College & Castle drives, DeKalb, 815-753-1936 or www.niu.edu/artmuseum. Gallery hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, noon to 4 p.m. Saturday. Schedule: through May 9, Spring Printmaking Suite.
Chicago
2ND FRIDAYS GALLERY NIGHT, 6 to 10 p.m. second Fridays, featuring a myriad of works shown in 35 galleries in the Chicago Arts District surrounding South Halsted and 18th streets, Chicago. Free. Gallery listing, location map and information: 312-377-4444 or www.chicagoartsdistrict.org.
ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO, 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-443-3600 or visit www.artic.edu. Hours: Memorial Day-Labor Day: 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday (with free admission after 5 p.m.), 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Target Free Thursdays 5 to 8 p.m. Admission: $12 adults; $7 for students and seniors, free for children younger than 12. Special exhibitions may require extra admission fee.
BILL L. PARKS GALLERY, 332 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-461-0600. Gallery hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday or by appointment. Free. Open to the public. Schedule: through April 24, Society of Illustrators 2008-2009 Traveling Exhibition hosted by the American Academy of Art. Information: or www.aaart.edu.
CHICAGO CULTURAL CENTER, 78 E. Washington St., Chicago, 312-742-1148, www.egov.cityofchicago.org. Viewing hours: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. Free admission. Schedule: through March 29, William Conger: Paintings 1958-2008 (Exhibit Hall); through April 5, Collaborative Vision: The Poetic Dialogue Project (Sidney R. Yates Gallery); through April 20, Michael Smith: Evolver Project Onward Gallery; through May 17, Inquire Within: Soul searching and Truth Seeking by Artists with Disabilities.
COLUMBIA COLLEGE CHICAGO, A&D Gallery, 619 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago, 312-369-8687 or www.colum.edu/adgallery. Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday. Schedule: through April 15, Internally Displaced: Jane Hammond and Enrique Chagoya; through April 19, PhotoDimensional.
GALLERY KH, 311 W. Superior St., Chicago, 312-642-0202 or www.gallerykh.com. Gallery hours: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Schedule: through April 18, Middle Ground: A New Look at the Midwest Landscape by Rodger Bechtold.
INTERNATIONAL VINTAGE POSTER FAIR, March 27-29, Chicago Cultural Center, 77 E. Randolph St., Chicago. Aviation Posters: From Biplane to Jet Plane feature exhibition. Schedule: 5 to 9 p.m. March 27 (preview); 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. March 28; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. March 29. Preview party: $35 Evening Associates of the Art Institute of Chicago members, $45 public. Fair admission: $15 weekend ticket (Saturday and Sunday), free admission for those younger than 25 (Saturday and Sunday). Information: 800-856-8069 or www.posterfair.com.
LOYOLA UNIVERSITY MUSEUM OF ART, Loyola University, 820 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-915-7600 or www.luc.edu/luma. Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Admission: $6 general, $5 seniors, free for students and children younger than 14, free Tuesdays. Schedule: March 28 through May 17, Ecology.Design.Synergy exhibition, with a 11:30 a.m. March 28 public lecture with Stefan Behnisch and Thomas Auer.
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART, 220 E. Chicago Ave., 312-280-2660 or www.mcachicago.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday. Closed Mondays, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s day. Tuesdays free courtesy of Target. Admission: $12 adults, $7 students and seniors, free for children 12 and younger, members of the military and museum members.
THOS. MOSER CHICAGO SHOWROOM, 607 N. State St., Chicago, 312-867-4900 or www.thosmoser.com. Schedule: through March, featuring the work of renowned Maine artist Bernard Langlais (1923-1977). Show will includes works done in wood, including inlays, painting and sculpture. Portion of the proceeds generated by sales of the art will benefit the Bernard Langlais Foundation. For information, visit: www.bernardlanglais.com.
WALSH GALLERY, 118 N. Peoria St., Chicago, 312-829-3312 or www.walshgallery.com. Schedule: March 27 through April 25, Sheba Chhachhi Winged Pilgrims and other Creatures - Selected Works from 2006-2009, with a 5 to 8 p.m. March 27 opening reception.
ARTS, CRAFTS & COLLECTIBLES
Kane County
SPRING ARTS & CRAFT SHOW, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 4, VFW Post 2298, 117 S. First St., West Dundee. Sponsored by the Ladies Auxiliary VFW Post 2298. Information: 847-428-9006.
McHenry County
JOHNSBURG AREA BUSINESS & CRAFT EXPO, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 4, Johnsburg High School, 2002 W. Ringwood Road, Johnsburg. More than 50 vendor booths will showcase the products of area businesses, crafts, games and prizes. Light lunch available 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free admission. Information: 815-344-2700.
SPRING CRAFT & VENDOR FAIR, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 4, Heritage Woods of McHenry, 4609 W. Crystal Lake Road, McHenry. A wide variety of crafters and vendors will feature designer purses, hand-dipped chocolates, handcrafted jewelry, Easter items and more. Lunch and snacks available. Free admission. Information: 815-363-4887.
Regional
A SHOWER OF CRAFTS CRAFT & ART FAIR, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 28 and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 29, College of DuPage gym, Park Boulevard & College Street, Glen Ellyn. 150 exhibitors from five states will feature paintings, Easter items, ceramics, candles, home decor, photography, glass art, florals, clothing, jewelry and more. Admission: $3.50 adults, free for children younger than age 12. Information: 815-878-2728.
AUDITIONS
Kane County
NOBLE FOOL THEATRICALS PERFORMING ARTS ACADEMY, Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. Theater class schedule: 9 a.m. to noon March 30 through April 3, Spring Break On-Camera Boot Camp: Commercials, TV, Film for ages 8 to 18 (tuition: $195); 1 to 4 p.m. March 30 through April 3, Spring Break Theatre Acting Boot Camp: “The Crucible” (tuition $195). Registration and information: 630-364-0550 or www.noblefool.org/education.
RIVERSIDE CHORUS OF SWEET ADELINES, 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 401 W. Main St., West Dundee. Local barbershop singing chorus seeking women who like to sing. Rehearsals are like having voice lessons every week. Information: Lisa, 847-437-3310 or www.riversidechorus.com.
AUTO EVENTS
McHenry County
SKIP’S CAR/TRUCK PARTS SWAP MEET, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 5, McHenry County Fairgrounds, Route 47 & Country Club Road, Woodstock. Collectible car sale and high performance swap meet. Admission: $5 adults, $2 children ages 6-11. Information: 630-340-4744 or www.skipsusa.com.
Regional
BUICK-OLDS-PONTIAC-CADILLAC SWAP MEET & CAR CORRAL, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 29, DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton. Open to the public. Admission: $4. Food available. Sponsor: Chicagoland Chapter of the Buick Club of America. Information: 630-231-0868; www.buickclub.org/chicagoland or robertbez@earthlink.net.
COMEDY
Kane County
COMEDYCOMEDY AT WALTER PAYTON’S ROUNDHOUSE COMPLEX, 205 N. Broadway Ave., Aurora, 630-906-2277 or www.walterpaytonsroundhouse.com. Live stand-up comedy. Showtimes: 8:30 p.m. Thursday & Friday, 8 p.m. Saturday. Doors open at 7 p.m. Admission: $15 for ages 21 and older. Reservations recommended. No drink minimum.
MIDWEST COMEDY SHOWCASE, Clearwater Theater, 96 W. Main St., West Dundee. Show designed to bring local stand-up comics to West Dundee. Hosted by Matt Drufke. Schedule: 8 p.m. every Thursday night (no holidays or on dates of major shows). Doors open 7 p.m. Admission: $5 (must be age 21 or older). For show dates visit: www.clearwatertheater.com. Information: 815-762-9749; www.myspace.com/mattdrufkecomedy or mattdrufke@hotmail.com.
ZANIES-PHEASANT RUN RESORT, on North Avenue, St. Charles, 630-513-1761 or www.zanies.com. Showtimes: 8 p.m. Wednesday & Thursday; 8 and 9:45 p.m. Friday; 7:30 and 9:45 p.m. Saturday. All shows require a two-item food/beverage minimum. Schedule: March 27-28, Dobie Maxwell.
McHenry County
GREENROOM THEATER, Cosman Cultural Center, 12015 Mill St., Huntley. Schedule: 7 p.m. April 4, Unscripted improv show. Tickets: $12 adults, $8 seniors and students at the door. Tickets and information: 847-931-4233 or www.greenroomtheater.com.
MARTY McGINLEY LIVE, 8 p.m. April 4, Parker O’Riley’s Pub at Prairie Lodge, 12880 Del Webb Blvd., Huntley. A night of comedy by Marty McGinley of Cary with Gary Sullivan of Woodstock on guitar. No cover charge. Information: 847-515-7344.
Regional
AN EVENING WITH COLIN MOCHRIE & BRAD SHERWOOD, tickets on sale for the 8 p.m. May 30 performance, Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. The stars of “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” will present an evening of improv comedy. Tickets: $29-$49 at 800-982-2787, any Ticketmaster outlet or www.ticketmaster.com.
“CHEECH & CHONG: LIGHT UP AMERICA”: 7:30 p.m. March 29, Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. With special guest Shelby. For information, visit: www.cheechandchongtour.com. Tickets: $39.50-$59.50 at 312-559-1212, any Ticketmaster outlet or www.ticketmaster.com.
CHICAGO IMPROV, 5 Woodfield Road, Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 847-240-2001 or www.symfonee.com/improv/chicago. Showtimes: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 8 & 10:15 p.m. Friday, 7 & 9:15 p.m. Saturday, 7 p.m. Sunday. Schedule: Schedule: March 27-29, Gary Gulman ($17, $19); April 3-4, Dave Attell ($32).
IMPROV PLAYHOUSE, Black Box Theater, 735 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville, 847-968-4529 or www.improvplayhouse.com. Schedule: 8 p.m. April 2-4, 8 p.m. April 9 & 11, 3 p.m. April 5, Josephine Forsberg’s Easter-themed “The Gathering.” Tickets: $12 adults in advance, $15 adults at the door, $8 seniors, military and children in advance, $12 seniors, military and children at the door.
ZANIES-VERNON HILLS, 230 Hawthorn Village Commons, 847-549-6030 or www.zanies.com. Showtimes: 8 p.m. Thursday; 8 and 9:45 p.m. Friday, 7 & 9:30 p.m. Saturday. Schedule: March 27, Brian Scolaro; March 28, Greg Proops.
Chicago
BLUE MAN GROUP, Briar Street Theatre, 3133 N. Halsted St., Chicago, 773-348-4000. Daily performances. Performance times vary and subject to change. Tickets: $49-$64. Tickets and information: 312-902-1500 or www.ticketmaster.com.
COMEDYSPORTZ, Studio Playhouse at The Chicago Center for the Performing Arts, 777 N. Green St., Chicago, 312-733-6000 or www.comedysportzchicago.com. Improv comedy for all ages. 8 p.m. Friday; 6, 8 & 10 p.m. Saturday; 8 p.m. Sunday. Tickets: $21.
THE SECOND CITY, 1616 N. Wells St., 312-337-3992 or www.secondcity.com. Schedule: 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 8 & 11 p.m. Friday & Saturday, 7 p.m. Sunday, America: All Better! (Mainstage). Tickets: $20 Tuesday through Thursday & Sunday, $25 Friday & Saturday.
ZANIES-CHICAGO, 1548 N. Wells in Old Town, 312-337-4027 or www.zanies.com. Showtimes: 8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday & Sunday; 8:30 & 10:30 p.m. Friday; 7, 9, & 11:15 p.m. Saturday. All shows require a two-item food/beverage minimum. Schedule: March 27, Greg Proops; March 28-29, Broan Scolaro; March 31, Ross Bennett.
DANCE
Kane County
DANCE CONNECTION, ballroom dance club meets 2 to 3:30 p.m. Sundays at St. Charles School of Dance, 1429 W. Main St., St. Charles. Newcomers always welcome ages 18 and older. Cost: $8 a person. Information: 630-202-3222 or e-mail: dupageflute@aol.com or www.chrisburdick.com.
SUGAR SQUARES DANCE CLUB, Kaneville Community Center, 2S101 Harter Road, Kaneville. Featuring modern square dancing lessons 7 p.m. Sundays. Couples, singles and teenagers all invited. Cost: $40 a person for 10 weeks of lessons. Registration and information: 815-286-9702 or 630-377-3695.
McHenry County
B AND B SQUARE DANCE CLUB, Johnsburg Community Club, 2315 W. Church St., Johnsburg. Dances first and third Friday of every month. Rounds begin at 8 p.m., squares at 8:30 p.m. Cost: $4.50 members, $5 visitors. Information: 815-728-1026 or 847-395-1108.
DANCE! with Frank & Jackie Penze, ballroom, Latin and swing dance instructors, 847-639-8699. Crystal Lake Park District: 7-8:15 p.m. or 8:15 to 9:30 p.m. to April 8, Beginning Swing, Fox Trot, Rumba, Merengue; 7 to 8:15 p.m. to April 9, Advanced Fox Trot, Rumba, Salsa, Peabody; or 8:15 to 9:30 p.m. Intermediate Fox Trot, Salsa, East Coast Swing, Samba, at Rotary Building, Veteran Acres Park, 131 N. Walkup. $99 couple resident, $149 couple non-resident. Call 815-459-0680 or www.crystallakeparks.org. Health Bridge Fitness Center: 8-9:30 p.m. to April 6, Beginning Swing, Salsa & more, at Aerobics Studio of Crystal Lake, 200 E. Congress Pkwy., Crystal Lake. Cost: $50 members, $75 non-members. Call 815-788-2266 or www.healthbridgefitness.com. Lake in the Hills Parks & Recreation Department: 6:30-7:30 p.m. to April 10, Beginning Fox Trot, Swing, Tango, Cha Cha; 7:30-8:30 p.m. Intermediate East Coast Swing, Tango, Cha Cha, Fox Trot ($70 resident, $80 non-resident); 8:30-10 p.m. Advanced Lindy, American Tango, Fox Trot, Cha Cha ($97 resident, $107 non-resident), at LaBahn-Hain House, 149 Hilltop Drive. Call 847-960-7460. Lake Villa: 7 to 8 p.m. or 9 to 10 p.m. to April 14, Beginning Swing, Waltz, Cha Cha, Merengue; 8 to 9 p.m. Intermediate Cha Cha, Waltz, Samba, intro to Argentine Tango, at American Stars of Dance Studio, 133 Cedar Ave. ($95 a couple). Call 847-838-1234.
DANCE CLASSES FOR ALL AGES, McHenry County College, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Schedule: 7 ti 8 p.m. Fridays April 3 through May 15, Ballroom Dance - Beginners ($125 couple, Course ID:NSDS03004) and 8 to 9 p.m. Fridays April 3 through May 15 (Course ID:NSDS03005); 9 to 10 p.m. Fridays April 3 through May 15, Ballroom Dance - Intermediate ($125 couple, Course ID:NSDS09006); 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursdays April 2 through May 7, Belly Dancing - Beginning ($89, Course ID:NSDS01004); 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays April 1 through May 6, Rock the Reception ($59, Course ID:NSDS10004). Information: 815-455-8559. Registration: 815-455-8588.
GREATER FOX VALLEY CHAPTER OF USA DANCE, A non-profit organization, designed to promote and sponsor amateur ballroom dancing for the general public. Information: Walt, 815-337-6860 or ok3wire@joltmail.com; Jackie, 847-639-8699, jackiepenze@aol.com or www.dancefoxvalley.org. Admission: $8 members, $12 non-members. Dances take place 8 p.m. at Dole Mansion’s Sage Ballroom, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Dances include a free dance lesson at 7:30 p.m., cake and snacks.
HARVARD MILK CENTER SQUARES, square dancing from 8 to 10:30 p.m. fourth Saturdays, September through May. Level of dancing is Mainstream with two Plus tips. Donation: $10 per couple. Information: 815-568-8879 or 815-459-2299.
WOODSTOCK SQUARES DANCE CLUB, hosts square dances second Fridays, September through June, McHenry Township Senior Center, 3519 N. Richmond Road, Johnsburg. Admission: $5 a person. Spectators welcome. Information: 815-385-6638 or 815-385-2329.
FAMILY EVENTS
Kane County
“CINDERELLA”: through April 5, Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. Children’s Theater Series presentation by Noble Fool Theatricals Youth Ensemble. Join the NFT Youth Ensemble, a Fairy Godmother and some furry friends as they make Cinderella’s fairy tale dreams of finding her Prince Charming a reality. Schedule: 10:30 a.m. March 27-28 and April 4; 7 p.m. April 5. Tickets: $15 at 630-584-6342 or www.noblefool.org.
“JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH”: 9:30 a.m., 11:45 a.m. and 7 p.m. April 9, Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. By Roald Dahl. Musical featuring James Trotter, Old-Green-Grasshopper, Miss Spider and other characters as they journey down the hill, across the sea and into the air on their magic adventure. Ticket: $8 morning, $10 evening performance at 630-896-6666 or www.theparamounttheatre.com.
“THUMBELINA”: April 4 through May 9, Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. Classic fairy tale by Hans Christian Anderson. Story of the woman who plants a magic seed which grows into the tiniest lovely girl named Thumbelina and the adventures that follow. Schedule: 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. April 4, 11, 18; 10:30 a.m., 1 & 3 p.m. April 25, May 2 and May 9. Tickets: $10 with reservations suggested at 630-587-8521 or www.steelbeamtheatre.com.
McHenry County
GIOVANNI REISING BENEFIT, 5 p.m. to midnight March 28, Stratford Banquet Hall, 21007 McGuire Road, Harvard. Benefit for the son of Sonia and Steve Reising, a seven-year-old Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia patient. Benefit will feature dinner, dancing, silent auction, 50/50 raffle, bag tournaments, children’s activities and more. Tickets: $10 adults in advance, $5 children ages 5-12 in advance; $15 adults at the door, $7 children ages 5-12 at the door. Tickets and information: 815-560-1668 or 815-653-8700.
GREAT OUTDOORS EXPO, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. March 28 and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 29, McHenry County College, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Featuring more than 50 exhibitors, demonstrations, boats, hunting, fishing, outdoors and camping equipment, children’s activities, food and more. Tickets: $5 adults, free for children ages 12 and younger. Advance tickets available at Woodstock Chamber of Commerce office, Animal Hospital of Woodstock, Bohn’s Ace Hardware in Woodstock and Jones Meats in Woodstock. Information: 815-814-7966 or www.greatoutdoorsexpo.net.
ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY’S GAMMA PHI CIRCUS, 2 & 7 p.m. April 4, Huntley High School, 13719 Harmony Road, Huntley. One of only two surviving collegiate circuses in the United States and now includes more than 60 performers. Refreshments available. Host: Huntley High School Fine Arts Boosters. Tickets: $9 adults, $7 seniors and students, free for children age 2 and younger at 847-659-6634.
“NOTHIN’ UP MY SLEEVE”, seventh annual, 7 p.m. April 4, Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. An evening of family magic, comedy and surprises. This is a fundraiser for the Raue Center produced by Nino Cruz and Glenn Chelius. Ticket: $17, $20 at 815-356-9212 or www.rauecenter.org.
“TALES FROM DARKEST SUBURBIA”: 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through April 25, Riverfront Playhouse, 11-13 South Water Street Mall, Aurora. A dark comedy by Edward Crosby Wells featuring a series of seven scenes connected in one way or another. List of scenes: “The Rubbing,” “The Sullied Robe,” “The Dumplings,” “The Butcher’s Thumb,” “The Session,” “The Hanging Judges,” and “The Gazillion.” Tickets: $15 adults, $12 seniors and students at 630-897-9496 or www.riverfrontplayhouse.com.
Regional
“HANSEL AND GRETEL”: 7 p.m. March 27 and 3 p.m. March 29, Boutell Memorial Concert Hall in the Music Building at Northern Illinois University, 550 Lucinda Ave., DeKalb. Presented by the NIU Opera Workshop and NIU Philharmonic (in English). Based on the well-known folk tale by the Brothers Grimm about two young children who get lost in the woods while searching for food and discover a magical gingerbread cottage and wicked witch. Recommended for ages 8 and older. Tickets: $10 adults, $7 non-NIU students (ages 12 and older), $5 non-NIU students (younger than 12), free for NIU students with ID. Tickets available at the door. Information: 815-753-1546.
“HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL”: through May 9, Marriott Theatre, Ten Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. Theatrical version of Disney’s Emmy Award-winning movie presented by Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences. Story about Gabriella, a shy, brainy transfer student, and Troy, the hunky captain of the basketball team as they discover their secret passion for singing. Schedule: 10 a.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and Sundays, 11 a.m. Saturdays. Tickets: $12 at 847-634-5909 or www.marriotttheatre.com.
RV, CAMPING & TRAVEL SHOW, 38th annual, March 27-29, Indoor Sports Center/Expo ISC, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford. Debut of 2009 RVs, campers, travel trailers, motor homes, travel products and more. Schedule: 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6 adults, free for children younger than age 12. Information: 815-877-8043 or www.showtimeproduction.net.
Chicago
CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL DOLLHOUSE MINIATURES SHOW & SALE, April 3-5, Marriott Chicago O’Hare, 8535 W. Higgins Road, Chicago. Featuring dealers from 16 countries and 36 states. Preview show and sale: 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. April 3 and 9 to 10 a.m. April 4 ($25 admission). Show and sale: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 4 and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 5. Admission: $8 adults, $4 children younger than 12. Parking: $3 all day. Tickets and information: 561-434-6622 or www.bishopshow.com.
“MARY POPPINS”: through May 17, Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago. Based on the classic Disney film, “Mary Poppins” is the story of a nanny who brings a bit of magic into the lives of the children she visits. Original Broadway stars Ashley Brown and Gavin Lee will reprise their roles to launch the musical’s national tour. 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays & Thursdays, 2 p.m. Wednesdays & Saturdays, 8 p.m. Fridays & Saturdays, 1 & 6:30 p.m. Sundays. Tickets: $23-$150 at 312-902-1400; all Ticketmaster outlets or www.ticketmaster.com.
“THE WIZARD OF OZ”: tickets on sale for the April 30 through May 3 performances, Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., Chicago. Schedule: 10:30 a.m. & 7:30 p.m. April 30; 7:30 p.m. May 1; 11 a.m., 3 & 7:30 p.m. May 2; 11 a.m. & 3 p.m. May 3. For information, visit: www.wizardofozontour.com. Tickets: $25-$75 at: 800-745-3000; www.chicagotheatre.com; any Ticketmaster outlet or www.ticketmaster.com.
FILM
McHenry County
CRYSTAL LAKE SOUTH HIGH SCHOOL, 1200 S. McHenry Ave., Crystal Lake. Schedule: 7 to 9:30 p.m. April 4, screening of “Fireproof.” Free to the community and a tribute to local firefighters. Presented by Crystal Lake Adventist Fellowship in Lake in the Hills. Information: 847-458-7511 or www.mcadventist.org.
Regional
REALITY BYTES STUDENT FILM FESTIVAL, ninth annual, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb. Schedule: 9 p.m. April 1, film screenings at the House Cafe, DeKalb; 7:30 p.m. April 3, independent filmmaker Mark Borchardt of “American Movie” will speak at the NIU Visual and Performing Arts Building Room 100; 7:30 p.m. April 4, screening of student films and award ceremony at the Visual and Performing Arts Building Room 100. Free. Open to the public. For information, visit: www.realitybytes.niu.edu.
Chicago
GENE SISKEL FILM CENTER, 164 N. State St., Chicago. Information, movie times and tickets: 312-846-2600, www.siskelfilmcenter.org. Tickets: $9 adults, $7 students with ID, $5 film center members. Schedule: March 27, “Seraphine,” “Late Spring,” “Prater,” “The Last Homecoming; March 28, “Seraphine,” “Boogie,” “Prater,” “Il Divo,” “Eszter’s Inheritance,” “Summer Hours,” “Ben X,” “Sauna;” March 29, “Defenders of Riga,” “How About You,” “Apres Lui,” “I Was Here,” “The Last Homecoming;” March 30,” “How About You,” “Apres Lui,” “Il Divo,” “Boogie;” March 31, “Summer Hours,” “Eszter’s Inheritance,” “Defenders of Riga,” “Charlotte: A Royal at War;” April 1, “Late Spring,” “Ben X,” “I Was Here;” April 2, Films by Ben Rivers,” “Patrik, Age 1.5,” “Sauna.”
HENRY CROWN SPACE CENTER OMNIMAX, Museum of Science and Industry, 57th Street at Lake Shore Drive, 773-684-1414, 800-468-6674 or www.msichicago.org for show times and information. Admission: $7 adults and seniors, $5 children 3-11 (Omnimax only); or $20 adults, $19 seniors, $14 children ages 3 to 11 (includes museum admission). Tickets for museum and film must be purchased together. Schedule: through May 24, “Wild Ocean;” through Dec. 31, “Mysteries of the Great Lakes.”
NAVY PIER IMAX THEATRE, 700 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Information: 312-595-5629 or www.imax.com/chicago. Call for showtimes. Tickets: $15 adults, $14 seniors, $13 children age 3-12; children age 2 and younger free. Schedule: “Watchmen: The IMAX Experience;” “Under the Sea 3D;” “The Dark Knight: The IMAX Experience.”
MUSEUMS
McHenry County
McHENRY COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM, 6422 Main St., Union, 815-923-2267 or www.mchsonline.org. Featuring the 23rd Annual Sampler Lecture Series in April. Each program will focus on something or someone making history from McHenry County. Schedule: 2 p.m. April 1, Visit to Ravenstone Castle south of Harvard. The remaining three will take place at the museum. Cost: $35 all four programs, $10 individual programs.
Regional
BURPEE MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, 737 N. Main St., Rockford, 815-965-3433 or www.burpee.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Housed in two historic mansions. Main exhibits include mammals, birds, insects, reptiles and amphibians, rocks and minerals, fossils and dinosaurs. Featuring the permanent exhibit Jane: Diary of a Dinosaur. Admission: $6 for resident adults ($7 non-resident), $5 for children ages 3-17 ($6 non-resident), free for members and children younger than 3, Wednesdays free to all. Schedule: 3 to 4 p.m. March 29, Celebrate Women’s History Month featuring Ellen Richards - America’s First Water Crusader.
CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN, 385-acre living museum, 1000 Lake Cook Road (a half mile east of the Edens Expressway), Glencoe. Open 8 a.m. to sunset daily except Christmas. Free admission. Parking $15, seniors $7 on Tuesdays. Information: 847-835-6980 or www.chicagobotanic.org.
CIRCUS WORLD MUSEUM, 426 Water St., Baraboo, Wis., 608-356-0800 or www.circusworldmuseum.com. Museum conserves and exhibits the world’s largest collection of antique circus wagons. Admission: $7 adults, $6 seniors, $3.50 children ages 5-11, free for children 4 and younger in the off-season; $14.95, $12.95 and $7.95 during performance season.
CZECHOSLOVAK HERITAGE MUSEUM, 122 W. 22nd St., Oak Brook, 630-472-0500 or www.csafraternallife.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Highlighting the history and culture of the Czech Republic and Slovakia featuring a wide variety of displays and exhibits including authentic Czech, Moravian, and Slovak costumes, crystals and ceramics, historical exhibits, dolls and puppets, and needlework dating from 1850. Admission: $5 adults, $3 seniors and students, $10 per family, $3 a person in groups (five or more).
DISCOVERY CENTER MUSEUM, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, 815-963-6769 or www.discoverycentermuseum.org. A hands-on, family-oriented museum in Riverfront Museum Park. First outdoor museum park in the U.S., with exhibits about sound, weather, water, cave exploration, and a two-story maze. Also featuring a variety of home and after school classes. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6 adults, $5 seniors, students and children ages 2 to 17, free for children younger than 2 and museum members. Schedule: through March 27, Spring into Science spring break week activities; 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. April 4, Nano Day.
DuPAGE COUNTY CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville, 630-637-8000 or www.dupagechildrensmuseum.org. Hours: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $8.50 ages 1 to 59, $7.50 seniors, free for members. Featuring a variety of creative arts programs, storytelling and more. Fees apply to some programs.
ERLANDER HOME MUSEUM, 404 South 3rd St., Rockford, 815-963-5559 or www.swedishhistorical.org. The cultural centerpiece of Rockford's Swedish-ancestry community. Hours: 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 children ages 3-17, $15 family (two adults with children).
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT HOME AND STUDIO TOURS, 951 Chicago Ave., Oak Park, 708-848-1976, www.gowright.org. This historic house museum, operated by the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust, served as Wright’s residence, studio and architectural laboratory during the first twenty years of his career from 1889 to 1909. Oak Park contains the world’s largest concentration of Wright-designed structures, 26 in all. Daily guided tours 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. weekdays, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. weekends. Admission: $12 adults, $10 children ages 7-18 and seniors age 65 and older, $5 children ages 4-10, free for children ages 3 and younger. Featuring a 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 18, Exclusive tour of the B. Harley Bradley House in Kankakee hosted by the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust. Cost: $120 members, $125 non-members (lunch and snacks provided).
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT’S FREDERICK C. ROBIE HOUSE, 5757 S. Woodlawn, Hyde Park, 708-848-1976, www.gowright.org. Tours by the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust offer both a first-hand experience of its amazingly contemporary spaces and the current restoration work that is returning the house to its original magnificence in preparation of the home’s 100th annivesary in 2010. To accommodate the magnitude of interior restoration construction and maintain a safe guest environment, tour offerings at the Robie House will be limited through Oct. 31, 2009. Public tours will be conducted 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. Admission: $12 adults, $10 children ages 7-18 and seniors age 65 and older, $5 children ages 4-10, free for children ages 3 and younger.
HISTORIC AUTO ATTRACTIONS, 13825 Metric Drive, Roscoe, 815-389-7917 or www.historicautoattractions.com. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Memorial Day to Labor Day, weekends after Labor Day. Admission: $10 adults, $8 seniors, $6 students ages 6-15, free for children younger than 6. Tour rates available. Come take a journey through time and enjoy more than 70 historic vehicles and hundreds of pieces of history that takes you beyond the concept of most auto museums. Visit the John F. Kennedy Display. See the secret service limo from the Kennedy assassination, Richard Petty’s oldest existing car, Batmobiles, Ghostbusters, Elvis’ car & memorabilia, cars of gangsters like Al Capone and Bonnie and Clyde, Grateful Dead tour bus and more.
KOHL CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview, 847-832-6600 or www.kohlchildrensmuseum.org. Hours: 9:30 a.m. to noon Monday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $7.50 adults and children, $6.50 seniors, free for children younger than 1 and members.
LAKE COUNTY DISCOVERY MUSEUM, Lakewood Forest Preserve, 27277 Forest Preserve Drive (Route 176 and Fairfield Road), Wauconda, 847-968-3400 or www.lakecountydiscoverymuseum.org. Hours: 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6 adults, $2.50 children ages 4-17, free for children 3 and younger and members.
MIDWAY VILLAGE & MUSEUM CENTER, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, 815-397-9112 or www.midwayvillage.com. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, closed Mondays. General admission: $6 adults, $4 children ages 3 to 17, free for members. Event admission: $6 adults, $4 children ages 3 to 17. A turn-of-the-century reconstructed village on 134 acres, including a church, school, town hall, blacksmith shop, bank, jail, hospital, farmhouse, hardware store, plumber’s shop and water-powered machine shop.
MIDWEST MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, 425 W. State St., Sycamore, 815-895-9777 or www.mmnh.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, closed on holidays. Admission: $5 adults, $4 seniors and children ages 12 and younger and groups of 20 or more, free for children ages 2 and younger.
MILWAUKEE ART MUSEUM, 700 N. Art Museum Drive, 414-224-3220 or www.mam.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursdays. General Admission: $8 adults, $6 seniors, $4 students, free for children 12 and younger accompanied by an adult, free for members. Feature exhibit tickets: $14 adults, $12 seniors, $10 students, free for children younger than 12. Schedule: through April 26, Jan Lievens; through October, Sensory Overload: Light, Motion, Sound and the Optical in Art since 1945.
MILWAUKEE PUBLIC MUSEUM, 800 W. Wells St., Milwaukee, 414-278-2700 or www.mpm.edu. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Closed July 4, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Admission: $11 adults, $10 seniors age 60 and older, $10 children ages 3-17, $8 children ages 3-12, free for children age 2 and younger and museum members.
MORTON ARBORETUM, 4100 Route 53, Lisle, 630-719-2400, 630-968-0074 or www.mortonarb.org. An outdoor 1,700-acre museum with collections of several thousand varieties of trees, shrubs and other plants from around the world. Open daily. Hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. or sunset, whichever is earlier. Admission: $11 adults ($7 on Wednesday), $10 seniors ($6 on Wednesday), $8 ($5 on Wednesday) children ages 2-17, free for children younger than 2 and members.
NAPER SETTLEMENT, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville, 630-420-6010 or www.napersettlement.org. A 19th century living history museum. The 13-acre village has 30 historic structures, including a Victorian mansion, homes, businesses, a log house, fort, chapel and one-room schoolhouse. Summer hours April 1 through Oct. 31: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $8 adults, $7 seniors, $5.50 children ages 4-17, free for members. Schedule: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 30-31, Things That Fly; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 1, Clowning Around on April Fool’s Day; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 2-3, Jr. Ecologist ($45 a day per child, $40 members); 9 to 11 a.m. April 4, 18 & 25, Blacksmithing 101 class ($150 a person).
ROCKFORD ART MUSEUM, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, 815-968-2787 or www.rockfordartmuseum.org. Gallery Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday (until 7 p.m. Thursday), noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6 adults, $3 seniors/students, $2 group rate, free for children younger than 12. Free admission Tuesdays.
VOLO AUTO MUSEUM, 27582 W. Volo Village Road, near intersection of Route 120 & Route 12, Volo, 815-385-3644 or www.volocars.com. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday (closed Monday, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas). Admission: $9 adults, $7 seniors, veterans and active military personnel, $5 children ages 5-12, free for children younger than 5. Group rates. American Classic Shop offers unique auto-related books, clothing, toys and gifts, popcorn and candy. Free parking. Car museum includes more than 300 vintage collector and Hollywood cars.
Chicago
ADLER PLANETARIUM, 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, 312-922-7827 or www.adlerplanetarium.org. Museum of astronomy and space exploration featuring astronomer gallery talks, exhibits, astronomy artifacts, sky shows and more. Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Memorial Day through Labor Day, 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. first Fridays. Admission: General: $10 adults, $8 seniors, $6 children 4-17; Galaxy Package: $19 adults, $17 seniors, $15 children 4-17, includes admission and one Sky Show; Universe Package: $23 adults, $21 seniors, $19 children 4-17, includes admission and two sky shows.
ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO, 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-443-3600. (See Art section for exhibits.)
CHICAGO CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, 312-527-1000 or www.ChiChildrensMuseum.org. Interactive exhibits for children. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday & Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday & Saturday. Admission: $9 adults and children, $8 seniors, free for children younger than age 1. Permanent exhibitions: Dinosaur Expedition; The Inventing Lab; WaterWays; Allstate Foundation presents Play it Safe; Kovler Family Schooner; Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows for PlayMaze; Treehouse Trails, Artabounds Studio and Gallery; Kids on the Fly (located at O’Hare International Airport). Target Free First Mondays when children ages 15 and younger receive free museum admission first Mondays of every month. Kraft Free Family Night 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday evenings (free admission for everyone).
CHICAGO HISTORY MUSEUM, Clark Street and North Avenue, 312-642-4600 or www.chicagohistory.org. Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, Friday & Saturday; 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday; noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $14 adults, $12 seniors and students ages 13-22, free for children 12 and younger. Free general admission Mondays. Permanent exhibitions: A House Divided: America in the Age of Lincoln; We the People: Creating a New Nation; Richard H. Needham Chicago History Galleries; Illinois Pioneer Life and Fort Dearborn; On the Paper Trail; Hands-On History Gallery; Voices from History. Featuring courtroom drawings from the 1968 Chicago Seven Conspiracy Trial by Franklin McMahon. Schedule: April 1 through May 3, Gettysburg Address in Lincoln’s own hand (part of the Lincoln Treasures exhibition); through April 26, Burnham 2.0: A Patchwork Plan for the High-Speed Rail; through July 26, Chic Chicago: Couture Treasures from the Chicago History Museum.
THE FIELD MUSEUM, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, 312-922-9410 or www.fieldmuseum.org. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. General admission: $14 for adults; $11 seniors and students with ID; $9 children ages 4-11 (Gold Pass and Platinum Pass ticket options available). Permanent exhibits: What is an Animal? Africa; Sue the Tyrannosaurus rex; Inside Ancient Egypt; Nature Walk; Underground Adventure; Pawnee Earth Lodge; Pacific Spirits; Evolving Planet; The Ancient Americas; Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice DNA Discovery Center and many other exhibits. Schedule: through April 19, The Aztec World; through April 26, Sesame Street Presents: The Body; through July 5, Yellowstone to Yukon: Freedom to Roam; through July 5, Masterpieces of Ancient Jewelry: Exquisite Objects from the Cradle of Civilization; through July 19, Sacred Waters: India’s Great Kumbha Mela Pilgrimage; through Oct. 25, Real Pirates: The Untold Story of the Whydah from Slave Ship to Pirate Ship; through July 12, 2010, Travels of the Crow: Journey of an Indian Nation.
GARFIELD PARK CONSERVATORY, 300 N. Central Park Ave., Chicago, 312-746-5100 or www.garfield-conservatory.org. Featuring the Sugar from the Sun new permanent exhibit. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, Thursdays until 8 p.m. Free admission.
HANCOCK OBSERVATORY, 875 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 888-875-8439 or www.hancock-observatory.com. Hours: 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Admission: $15 adults, $13 seniors 62 years and older, $9 children ages 5-12, free for children age 4 and younger.
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART, 220 E. Chicago Ave., 312-280-2660 or www.mcachicago.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday. Closed Mondays, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Admission: $12 adults, $7 students and seniors, free for children 12 and younger, members of the military and museum members. Target Free Tuesdays 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY PHOTOGRAPHY, Columbia College Chicago, 600 S. Michigan Ave., 312-663-5554 or www.mocp.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays & Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Free admission. Schedule: through April 19, Photodimensional group exhibition.
MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY, 57th Street and Lake Shore Drive, 773-684-1414; 800-GO-TO-MSI or www.msichicago.org. Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. General admission: $13 adults, $12 seniors, $9 children ages 3-11, free for children younger than 3. Permanent exhibits: Petroleum Planet; The Great Train Story; Toymaker 3000; U-505 Submarine; Earth Revealed; Fast Forward. Special exhibits: Networld; Ships through the Ages; Reusable City; and more. Schedule: through Jan. 3, 2010, Smart Home: Green and Wired, Powered by ComEd (tickets $23, adults, $22 seniors, $14 children 3-11 include museum general admission).
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF MEXICAN ART, 1852 W. 19th St., Chicago, 312-738-1503 or www.nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, closed Monday. Free admission. Performance festivals are ticketed. Permanent exhibition: Mexicanland: Our Past is Present. Schedule: through Aug. 30, Miradas: Mexican Art from the Bank of America Collection.
NOTEBAERT NATURE MUSEUM, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago, 773-755-5100 or www.naturemuseum.org. Hours: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Admission: $9 adults, $7 seniors and college students with ID, $6 children ages 3-12, free on Thursdays. Featuring permanent exhibits such as The Extreme Green House and Hands-on Habitat.
RICHARD H. DRIEHAUS MUSEUM, 40 E. Erie St., Chicago, 312-932-8665 or www.driehausmuseum.org. Housed in the historic Samuel Mayo Nickerson Mansion, built from 1879 to 1883, the museum is a showcase for late 19th and early 20th century art and design. The Marble Palace, as the house became known, was one of the grandest residential buildings of the 19th century Chicago. Museum is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays for tours at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Admission: $25 adults, $17.50 seniors, $12.50 students with valid ID and children ages 12 to 16. Due to the fragile nature of the historic interiors, children younger than age 12 are not admitted and those younger than 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
SHEDD AQUARIUM, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, 312-939-2438 or www.sheddaquarium.org. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends. Featuring Caribbean Reef Dives and Wild Reef Dives, Animal Encounters, Camp Shedd, Dog Show and more. The 4-D theater features “Planet Earth: Shallow Seas,” and “SpongeBob SquarePants” shows. Admission: $11.95-$17.95. Visit the web site for other admission options.
SWEDISH AMERICAN MUSEUM CENTER, 5211 N. Clark, Chicago, 773-728-8111 or www.samac.org. E-mail: museum@samac.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission: $4 adults, $3 seniors, students and members, free for children younger than 1 year, $10 family rate. Free admission second Tuesday of every month.
UKRAINIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM, 2249 W. Superior St., Chicago, 312-421-8020 or www.ukrainiannationalmuseum.org. Hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, by appointment only Monday through Wednesday. Admission: $5 adults, free for children younger than 12.
SINGLES EVENTS
Kane County
INTRO2SINGLES, western suburbs’ premier event planning company for singles events such as dating parties, social mixers and wine tastings. No membership fee. Information: 630-845-8684. Calendar of events: www.intro2singles.com.
ST. CHARLES SINGLES CLUB, LTD., a social non-profit group welcomes ages 30 and older to dances at Riverside Receptions, 35 N. River Lane, Geneva. Dances are 7 to 11 p.m. on second, fourth and fifth Mondays. Lessons available at 6:30 p.m. Proper attire required. Admission: $6 members, $8 non-members on second and fourth Mondays; $8 members, $10 non-members on fifth Mondays with live band. Information: 630-340-6647 or www.stcharlessinglesclub.com.
McHenry County
BABY BOOMER SINGLES CLUB, for singles, divorced or widowed, older than age 40. Featuring dances and other activities. No membership, pay as you go. For information, visit: www.babyboomersinglesclub.com or e-mail: babyboomersingles@comcast.net. Schedule: 8 to 11 p.m. April 2, Karaoke night at Kelsey’s Road House, 352 Kelsey Road, Lake Barrington. Cost: $25 a person includes appetizers and beverages. Cash Bar. Reservations required for all events: 815-529-8139.
Regional
YOUNG AT HEART SINGLES CLUB, 773-777-2210. Hotline: 630-415-3449. Event location information: 847-678-7068. A club for singles who are ballroom dancers of all ages. Ladies to dress semi-dressy to dressy and men to wear sport jackets or suits, ties not required, but no jeans. Members $7, guests $9. All dances from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. Dance schedule: March 27 and April 3, American Legion Hall, 9757 Pacific, Franklin Park, with Ken Jandes.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Kane County
CHICAGOLAND ANTIQUE ADVERTISING, SLOT MACHINE & JUKEBOX SHOW, April 3-6, Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. Featuring dealers and collectors from across the country and around the world. Schedule: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Free admission. Information: www.chicagolandshow.com.
McHenry County
A GROOVIN’ GALA - Dancing through the ’60s, 6 p.m. April 4, Bull Valley Golf Club, 1311 Club Road, Woodstock. Home of the Sparrow annual fundraising dance featuring dinner, live and silent auctions, games, raffles, costume contests and dancing to the sounds of the 1960s. Tickets: $75 a person. Proceeds benefit homeless women and children. Tickets and information: 815-444-1660 or www.homeofthesparrowillinois.org.
BENEFIT DANCE, 19th annual, 6:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. April 4, Moose Family Center, 406 Clay St., Woodstock. Benefit dance for Adult and Child Rehab Center for McHenry County with live music by Hans and the Hormones, silent auction, raffles and cash drawings. Sponsor: McHenry County Independent Riders. Tickets: $7 in advance, $10 at the door. Tickets and information: 815-648-4333 or www.adultchildrehabcenter.org.
BUSINESS, HOME & GARDEN EXPO, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 28, Harvard High School, 1103 N. Jefferson St., Harvard. Featuring antiques, fire truck displays, race cars, live car auction, McGruff, Ident-a-Kid, Sparky the Fire Dog, dance performances, 1 p.m. professional wrestling match, live community radio and more. Admission: $1 or 50 cents with a non-perishable food item for the local food pantry. Sponsor: Harvard Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Information: 815-943-4404 or www.harvcc.net.
GIOVANNI REISING BENEFIT, 5 p.m. to midnight March 28, Stratford Banquet Hall, 21007 McGuire Road, Harvard. Benefit for the son of Sonia and Steve Reising, a seven-year-old Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia patient. Benefit will feature dinner, dancing, silent auction, 50/50 raffle, bag tournaments, children’s activities and more. Tickets: $10 adults in advance, $5 children ages 5-12 in advance; $15 adults at the door, $7 children ages 5-12 at the door. Tickets and information: 815-560-1668 or 815-653-8700.
GREAT OUTDOORS EXPO, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. March 28 and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 29, McHenry County College, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Featuring more than 50 exhibitors, demonstrations, boats, hunting, fishing, outdoors and camping equipment, children’s activities, food and more. Tickets: $5 adults, free for children ages 12 and younger. Advance tickets available at Woodstock Chamber of Commerce office, Animal Hospital of Woodstock, Bohn’s Ace Hardware in Woodstock and Jones Meats in Woodstock. Information: 815-814-7966 or www.greatoutdoorsexpo.net.
ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY’S GAMMA PHI CIRCUS, 2 & 7 p.m. April 4, Huntley High School, 13719 Harmony Road, Huntley. One of only two surviving collegiate circuses in the United States and now includes more than 60 performers. Refreshments available. Host: Huntley High School Fine Arts Boosters. Tickets: $9 adults, $7 seniors and students, free for children age 2 and younger at 847-659-6634.
JOHNSBURG AREA BUSINESS & CRAFT EXPO, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 4, Johnsburg High School, 2002 W. Ringwood Road, Johnsburg. More than 50 vendor booths will showcase the products of area businesses, crafts, games and prizes. Light lunch available 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free admission. Information: 815-344-2700.
NIGHT OF KNIGHTS DINNER/AUCTION, sixth annual, 5 p.m. to midnight April 4, The Stratford, 21007 McGuire Road, Harvard. Fundraiser for St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Harvard featuring dinner, dance music by Primetime, live and silent auctions, and a raffle. Cost: $40 a person. Tickets and information: 815-943-6933.
“NOTHIN’ UP MY SLEEVE”, seventh annual, 7 p.m. April 4, Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. An evening of family magic, comedy and surprises. This is a fundraiser for the Raue Center produced by Nino Cruz and Glenn Chelius. Ticket: $17, $20 at 815-356-9212 or www.rauecenter.org.
PUB CRAWL, 7 to 10 p.m. March 28, starting at Town Tap, 219 N. Benton St., Woodstock. Continues to Duffy’s at 7:45 p.m., 223 N. Benton St., Wayne’s Lanes at 8:30 p.m., 109 E. Church St., Trackside at 9:15 p.m., 101 E. Church St., and Liquid Blues at 10 p.m., 126 N. Benton St. Annual scholarship fundraiser hosted by the Woodstock Jaycees. Participants will collect playing cards at each bar and the person with the best five card poker hand wins. Information: 815-8861-3239 or www.woodstockjaycees.org.
McHenry County - Ongoing
MORAINE HILLS STATE PARK & McHENRY DAM, 1510 S. River Road, between Routes 120 & 176, McHenry, 815-385-1624 (park information); 815-344-1294 (registration); www.dnr.state.il.us/lands/landmgt/parks or e-mail: dnr.volobog@illinois.gov. An Illinois Department of Natural Resources site. Registration required. Schedule: 10 a.m. to noon March 28, Moraine Meanders at Northern Woods; 8 a.m. April 4, Bird Walk at McHenry Dam.
Regional
RV, CAMPING & TRAVEL SHOW, 38th annual, March 27-29, Indoor Sports Center/Expo ISC, 8800 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford. Debut of 2009 RVs, campers, travel trailers, motor homes, travel products and more. Schedule: 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6 adults, free for children younger than age 12. Information: 815-877-8043 or www.showtimeproduction.net.
Regional - Ongoing
VOLO BOG STATE NATURAL AREA, 28478 W. Brandenburg Road, west off Route 12 between Routes 120 & 134, Ingleside, 815-344-1294; www.dnr.state.il.us/lands/landmgt/parks or e-mail: dnr.volobog@illinois.gov. An Illinois Department of Natural Resources site. Site open daily 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Labor Day. Visitor Center open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Guided tours 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. most Saturdays and Sundays. Registration required. Schedule: 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. March 28, Spring Crafts with the Crafty Bog Committee (no registration required); 1 to 3 p.m. April 4, Wind Power & Wildlife presented by Keith Shank (registration required).
Chicago
CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL DOLLHOUSE MINIATURES SHOW & SALE, April 3-5, Marriott Chicago O’Hare, 8535 W. Higgins Road, Chicago. Featuring dealers from 16 countries and 36 states. Preview show and sale: 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. April 3 and 9 to 10 a.m. April 4 ($25 admission). Show and sale: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 4 and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 5. Admission: $8 adults, $4 children younger than 12. Parking: $3 all day. Tickets and information: 561-434-6622 or www.bishopshow.com.
RICHARD SIMMONS, 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. March 31, Grand Hall of Union Station, Adams and Jackson Blvd., Chicago. Fitness guru Richard Simmons will perform his aerobics routines and jazz up commuters and host a human fuel station that will dispense free Cranergy, an Ocean Spray energy juice drink. For information, visit: or www.cranergy.com.
RUN FOR THE CHEETAH, second annual, 9 a.m. April 4, Lincoln Park along the lakefront, Chicago. A fun and competitive 5K event for runners/walkers and families to raise awareness about the endangered cheetah and raise funds to support the Cheetah Conservation Fund’s programs. For information and registration, visit: www.runforthecheetah.org.
UNBEARABLY UNIQUE, 7 to 10 p.m. March 27, Le Passage, 937 N. Rush St., Chicago. Art and spring fashion show with appetizers, complimentary drinks, raffle prizes, goodie bags and more. Featuring designers Lara Miller, Serpico, Elise Bergman and various local artists. Benefit for the Bear Necessities Pediatric Cancer Foundation. Presented by the Bear Necessities Auxiliary Board. Tickets: $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Tickets and information: 312-214-1200 or www.bearnecessities.ejoinme.org/mypages/unbearableunique/tabid/133939/default.aspx.
ZOOS
Regional
BROOKFIELD ZOO, 31st Street and First Avenue, Brookfield, 708-485-0263 or www.brookfieldzoo.org. Featuring more than 2,000 exotic and familiar animals on 216 acres. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission: $12 adults, $8 seniors and children 3-11, free for zoo members and children 2 and younger. Parking: $8.
Chicago
LINCOLN PARK ZOO, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, 312-742-2000 or www.lpzoo.org. General hours: Grounds 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. buildings and farm 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Houses more than 2,000 birds, mammals and reptiles, including the world’s largest collection of gorillas in the great ape house. Also, orangutans, chimpanzees, a children’s petting zoo and Farm-in-the-Zoo. Free admission. There is a charge for parking.
