Weekend Events Around Town: 5/10 - 5/12

Oklahoma! on stage, an immersive journey through 5,000 years of Chinese civilization, and the Art Institute "After Dark;" Chicago Tonight knows what's going on this weekend. 

On stage at the Lyric Opera, new faces and a seasoned veteran have revived this classic American musical about frontier life and coming of age. Enlivened by newcomers like John Cudia, who makes his Lyric Opera debut as “Curly,” and Ashley Brown as “Laurey Williams,” the production also benefits from the choreography of 91-year-old Gemze de Lappe, who first danced in Oklahoma! in 1943 as a member of the Broadway hit's first national touring company. Called a “delight to hear—and to see” by TimeOut Chicago, the show appeals to modern audiences without abandoning the original intent of its creators. Oklahoma! is on stage at the Civic Opera House through May 19, and tickets are priced between $47 and $163, and between $32 and $148 for matinees. For more information on the show and to purchase advance tickets, click here. Also, click here to check out Chicago Tonight’s story on the Lyric Opera’s production of Oklahoma!
 
Civic Opera House
20 N. Wacker Dr.
Chicago, IL 60606
 
Feel like taking a little trip this weekend, say, through 5,000 years of civilization, as told through classical Chinese dance? If so, you need not go far – just hurry to the Cadillac Palace Theatre, where Shen Yun 2013 is on stage THIS WEEKEND ONLY. See dynasties rise and fall as 100 artists, lively costumes, and an orchestra featuring both classical Western and Chinese instruments take audiences on a unique journey through time. The Chicago Tribune calls Shen Yun, “Beautiful - a nimble mastery.” But Chicago audiences only have four chances to catch the show this weekend: Friday at 7:30 pm; Saturday at 2:00 and 8:00 pm; and Sunday at 2:00 pm. Tickets are priced between $60 and $150. For more information on the show and to purchase tickets online, click here.
 
Cadillac Palace Theatre
151 W. Randolph St.
Chicago, IL 60601
 
If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to roam the halls of the Art Institute after hours, you are in luck. For those seeking something more exciting than the traditional museum experience, head to The Art Institute tonight for “After Dark” - a night of drinks, music, dancing and art exploration. Hosted in the Institute’s Modern Wing, the event features complimentary appetizers, a cash bar and live music performed by My Gold Mask, Tara Shanahan, and Dead Fame DJ’s. It’s also one of your last chances to catch the Picasso and Chicago exhibit - which features 250 of his paintings, sculptures and drawings – and is only on display through Sunday. Tickets to “After Dark” are $25 for adults; $20 for members and students; and $15 for Evening Associates. For more information on the event and to purchase tickets online, click here. Also, check out Chicago Tonight’s story on the Picasso exhibit to learn about his unique ties to the city. 
 
The Art Institute of Chicago
111 S. Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL 60603
 
Some of us may have had a few beers taking in a Bears game, but this Saturday at Soldier Field, it’s all about the beer. Saturday’s American Beer Classic offers attendees the chance to sample hundreds of beers from craft brewers around the country, including rare brews from local favorites like Goose Island, Dogfish Head, Bell’s and many, many more. A general admission ticket gets you 48 two-ounce samples of your choosing, and a rare chance to drink on the storied gridiron of Soldier Field and explore the stadium. For those interested in learning more about what they’re drinking, or even how to make craft beer at home, educational sessions on home brewing and the art of creating a world-class beer will be offered. However, tickets are going fast – currently, $60 general admission tickets are only on sale for Saturday’s second tasting session from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. VIP tickets are available for $110, and includes 12 additional drink tickets and entry to the festival one hour early. Designated driver tickets are available for $30 and include everything the ABC has to offer, minus the beer. For more information on the event and to purchase tickets online, click here.
 
Soldier Field
1410 Museum Campus Dr.
Chicago, IL 60605
 
In case you missed award-winning playwright, actress and author Eve Ensler on Chicago Tonight, well…you missed out. But you can still watch our full interview with Ensler and read an excerpt from her new memoir here. If you want to catch Ensler again while she’s in town, she’s hosting a reading and signing for her new book, In the Body of the World, Friday at the Swedish American Museum Center at 7:00 PM. Purchase of the book (either online or by calling 773-769-9299) from Women & Children First comes with a ticket to the event. For more information on the event and to purchase tickets, click here
 
The Swedish Museum
5511 N. Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60640

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