The Arts Section

Chicago Black Dance Legacy Project + Rosemont Museum

Gary Zidek

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek looks at the work being done by a cohort of black dance companies that have come together to help each other. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to talk about an intriguing new play that takes a more nuanced approach to human-AI relationships. Later in the show, Gary visits a new museum that covers the history of one of the Chicago-area’s most visited suburbs. And we’ll hear how a former convenient store is finding success as a concert venue.

F1 Arcade Comes to Chicago + Marble Review

Gary Zidek

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek visits a new Chicago attraction that’s aimed at fans of F1 racing. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review the new play MARBLE, that’s all about the disintegration of two marriages. Later in the show, Gary revisits a segment on the history of the Uptown Theater. And we’ll go inside a new MCA exhibit that explores the cultural impact of two music genres.

New Jazz Photo Book + Yo Ho Review

Gary Zidek

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek dives into a new book of jazz photography with an intriguing backstory, all the pictures were taken over 60 years ago, but were never released. Hear the story behind the new book. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review a new pirate play. And later in the show, Gary catches up with magician/artist Jeanette Andrews to talk about her first ever solo exhibition.

Museum of Broadcast Communications Ready For Next Chapter + Pasta Time!

Gary Zidek

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes you inside the Museum of Broadcast Communication, we’ll hear about the non-profit’s current exhibits and future plans. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review a free children’s play touring Chicago parks. Later in the show, Gary catches up with the chef behind a new west suburban handmade pasta shop. And we’ll look back at the history of a film that some say is the best bad movie of all time.

Youth Orchestra Lolla Stage + Author Finds Mystery Niche

Gary Zidek

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with the executive director of a youth orchestra that’s getting ready for giant performance this week. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review a new children’s musical. Later in the show, Emily Werner stops by to preview what’s hitting Chicago stages in August. And Gary sits down with a suburban fiction author who found her calling later in life.

Rainbow Cone 100 + Book Banning Pushback

Gary Zidek

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes a closer look at local ice cream institution that’s turning 100. We’ll hear about an effort to raise awareness as the number banned books increases around the country. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review a new production of CRIME AND PUNISHMENT that’s been extended over two months, because it keeps selling out. Later in the show, Gary reviews the much anticipated Christopher Nolan film THE ODYSSEY. We’ll get ready for the World Cup final with a look at a soccer-themed photo exhibit that’s open in the western suburbs. And Gary talks to the author of a book about the popular TV series TED LASSO.

Grass Roots Jazz Series Thriving + Woodstock Folk Fest Back

Gary Zidek

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek checks in on an outdoor jazz concert series born in the midst of the pandemic that has not only continued, but expanded long after the COVID restrictions went away. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review a new production of A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC. Later in the show, Gary previews the 41st Woodstock Folk Festival. And he’ll catch up with the author of a book all about the history of one of Chicago’s oldest cultural landmarks.

Interviews With John Early and Gary Sinise

Gary Zidek

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with celebrated actor and comedian John Early to talk about his new film, MADDIE’S SECRET. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel will joins Gary to review a Goodman Theatre world premiere starring Megan Mullaly and Nick Offerman. Later in the show, Gary revisits his interview with actor Gary Sinise, who is returning to the western suburbs to raise money for a non-profit that helps veterans. And we’ll spotlight some of the hottest theatrical productions opening this month.

Anerican Weekender + Commute Photo Book

Gary Zidek

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with a Chicago couple that launched their own online dining publication that covers restaurants all over the country. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review an ambitious new production of LEOPOLDSTADT. Later in the show, Gary talks to TV and film actor Marilyn Rajskub about her unlikely path to Hollywood. And Gary sits down with the photographer behind a new photo book that captures the moments within Chicago’s commute.

Tom Dreesen Obit + Opera Festival of Chicago

Gary Zidek

Happy Father’s Day! On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek revisits his interview with celebrated comedian Tom Dreesen. The Harvey native, who enjoyed a decades-long career in show business, passed away this week. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review a world premiere at Lookingglass Theater. Later in the show, Gary highlights the mission the Opera Festival Of Chicago. And we’ll take a look at a conversational exhibit at the Museum of Contemporary Art.