University Park, IL, –(ENEWSPF)—October 14, 2015. For the fifth straight year, The Chicago Community Trust is supporting the work of Governors State University’s Center for Performing Arts. The grant awarded this season for $50,000 will be used towards GSU Center’s “Made in Chicago” series, which brings the best in Chicago-area live performance to local audiences in the Southland region.
Through this support, the Center for Performing Arts will introduce its audiences to Chicago-based theatre, dance, and musical ensemble companies and develop new audiences through collaboration with diverse arts organizations. The series is designed to increase attendance from underserved communities, increase theater participation by minority populations, and increase the number of first-time attendees.
“We are pleased that The Chicago Community Trust has once again recognized the work that GSU is doing to bring examples of the lively Chicago arts scene to the south suburbs,” said Governors State President Elaine P. Maimon. “Our goal is to develop new audiences for Chicago performing arts organizations. The Trust is supporting a true win/win arrangement.”
“Made in Chicago” fulfills the mission of Center for Performing Arts, which is to present the finest in world-class performing arts entertainment and education to area citizens at affordable prices. All performances are $28-38, with discounts available for seniors, students and groups of ten or more.
This series’ upcoming presentations include:
Chévere de Chicago on Saturday, November 21, 2015 at 8 p.m. turns up the heat for a night of Latin inspiration featuring composer, virtuoso pianist and master harmonica player, Howard Levy. Appearing with Levy are his long-time comrades in the Latin/jazz/funk/blues band, Chévere de Chicago along with special guest Gammy-nominated Trumpeter, Victor Garcia (of CALJE – Chicago Afro-Latin Jazz Ensemble).
Ain’t Misbehavin’ by Porchlight Music Theatre on Saturday, January 30 at 8 p.m. pays tribute to the Harlem Renaissance in a rowdy and humorous evening of fun that reflects an era of social change and Fats Waller’s view of life as a journey meant for pleasure and joy. Winner of the 2014 Joseph Jefferson Award for “Best Production – Revue,” “Best Direction – Revue” for Brenda Didier, “Artistic Specialization” for conductor/pianist Austin Cook , this production is one of Porchlight’s biggest hits ever!
Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater on Saturday, February 6 at 8 p.m. is an epic celebration of Flamenco, classical, folkloric, and contemporary dance, set to traditional Spanish rhythms. In this 40th anniversary tribute, the company highlights Maurice Ravel’s most popular work, the Bolero, which premiered in Paris in 1929. Combining flamenco and contemporary dance styles, choreographer and rising star Ron de Jesús creates “Mil Clavos – One Thousand Nails.”
Sweet Home Chicago Blues*on Saturday, March 5 at 8 p.m. is going to be the hottest blues ticket in town. Join three-time Grammy nominee BILLY BRANCH, formerly of the Willie Dixon All-Stars, and the ‘’Big Blues Band” (Billy Branch-harmonica; Sumito Ariyoshi-keyboards; Andrew “Blaze” Thomas-drums; Dan Coscarelly – lead guitar, Marvin Little-bass, horns and singers) in an unforgettable celebration of sound. Special guests include: Eddy” The Chief” Clearwater (guitar and vocal); Jimmy Burns (guitar and vocal); Eddie Shaw (saxophone, formerly of Howlin’ Wolfe); Zora Young (vocal); Demetria Taylor (daughter of the late Eddie Taylor); Jamayah On Fire (guitar and vocal); and Tail Dragger. * artists subject to change.
For Tickets and Information:
Online: CenterTickets.net
By Phone: 708.235.2222
In Person at the Box Office: 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL
Box Office Hours: Monday- Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (open to 6p.m. on Thursdays) & 2 hours prior to all performances
Groups of 10 or more, students, seniors and patrons who purchase a flex package of four or more shows are eligible for discounts.
Governors State University is located at 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL 60484. Conveniently located off of I57 (Sauk Trail exit), the Center for Performing Arts is easily accessible from all neighboring south suburban communities. Parking is free. For best GPS directions always use the location search term “Governors State University” only.
About The Chicago Community Trust
The Chicago Community Trust is a community foundation dedicated to improving our region through strategic grant making, civic engagement and inspiring philanthropy. We are here to serve the nonprofit organizations, the generous donors and the thoughtful residents who strive to make a difference, helping their bold vision create lasting community change. We work with a number of partnerships and initiatives to accomplish this work.
As businesses, local governments, and organizations strive to solve pressing challenges, the Trust brings these key actors together to spur necessary collaboration. Working together, connecting thoughtful donors with smart solutions, we leverage collective knowledge, creativity and resources for a greater impact than any of us can make alone. To learn more, please visit The Trust online at www.cct.org.
Source: www.govst.edu
