On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek talks to the playwright behind a world premiere that takes a comedic look back at one of Chicago’s most eccentric characters. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new musical that tells the story of the legendary rock group, the Kinks. Later in the show, Gary visits the curator of a new exhibit that covers DuPage’s farming history. And we’ll revisit Gary’s interview with Oscar-winning cinematographer Roger Deakins, who’s photo exhibit is on display in Chicago through the end of April.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with renowned composer Missy Mazzoli to talk abut her latest project, a thriller opera that’s opening in Chicago. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review Definition Theater’s latest. Later in the show, Gary sits down with Nan Giordano, the artistic director of the celebrated Giordano Dance company to talk about a special program coming up. And WDCB’s Leslie Keros has the story behind a new recording that sheds light on the career of Lil Hardin Armstrong.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek has a story about one of Chicago’s best kept secrets, a 150 year old club dedicated to supporting women musicians. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gart to review a new production of Shakespeare’s A WINTER’S TALE. Later in the show, Gary talks with the choreographer behind a new dance program that explores science and discovery. And we’ll hear about an exhibit that dives into the history of local typography.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes a closer look at the Block Museum of Art’s new exhibit that explores questions through an indigenous lens. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new production of a play that debuted 1777. Later in the show, Gary checks in with THOSE WERE THE DAYS host Steve Darnall to talk about the program’s 55th anniversary. And we’ll hear from the author of a book that’s all about checking out the area’s north shore.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek gets ready to cebrate St. Patrick’s Day. He’ll visit one of Chicago’s biggest hubs of Irish cultural activity. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a revival of GUYS AND DOLLS. Later in the show, we’ll hear from the author who put together a unique collaborative novel featuring some of the world’s most popular authors. The book is takes place during the first two weeks of the pandemic (which officially started 5 years ago this week). Plus, Gary chats with the College of DuPage professor who is bringing John Waters to Glen Ellyn.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek has the story of how surprise guests helped preview the Goodman Theater’s upcoming milestone centennial anniversary season. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a current Goodman production starring Helen Hunt. Later in the show, Gary highlights two pieces on Oscar nominated films that could walk away with awards . This past summer Gary talked to the co-directors of SUGAR CANE, a film that’s nominated for Best Documentary Feature. And we’ll revisit an interview with animator Adam Elliot, whose film MEMOIR OF A SNAIL is up for Best Animated Feature.

On this edition of The Arts Section, we’re getting ready for the Oscars. Local critic Janet Arvia joins host Gary Zidek to talk all about this year’s Academy Awards. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review Lookingglass’ return to the stage. Later in the show, Gary visits the Elmhurst Art Museum’s new exhibit that explores man’s relationship with our land. And we’ll hear from local stage actor Shariba Rivers, a recent recipient of a 3Arts Award.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek sits down with acclaimed filmmaker Alex Thompson and renowned actor Namie Smallwood, two of the key players behind the new film ROUNDING. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review Steppenwolf’s latest, a revival of FOOL FOR LOVE. Later in the show, Gary looks back at the history of Facets, the local independent cinema hub is celebrating it’s 50th anniversary this year. And we’ll take a look at the Museum of Contemporary Art’s new exhibit THE LIVING END.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with celebrated opera singer Sondra Radvanovsky to talk about returning home to the Chicago-area and a series of concerts at Lyric Opera. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review the Chicago premiere of a Hamlet-inspired play titled FAT HAM. Later in the show, Gary visits the North Shore-based Marriott Theater as it begins to celebrate it’s 50th anniversary season. And we’ll check out the Chicago Botanic Garden as it opens the 11th edition of its annual Orchid Show.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek visits one of the only museums in the world dedicated to lapidary art. The Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art brings was established in the early 60s by an Elmhurst businessman with a passion for cutting and polishing stones. Theater critic Kelly Kleiman joins Gary to review Porchlight Music Theater’s new production of FUN HOME. Later in the show, we’ll revisit a segment on the Cleve Carney Museum of Art’s INSERT COIN exhibit. And Gary catches up with director Anders Lindwall to talk about his new movie, GREEN AND GOLD.