The Arts Section

Amy Landecker Interview + Environment-Inspired Dance Piece

Gary Zidek

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with acclaimed actor Amy Landecker to talk about her new film, FOR WORSE, which she wrote, directed and starred in. The Dueling Critics join Gary to review a new play set in the immediate aftermath of the covid pandemic. Later in the show, Gary talks to the choreographer behind a new climate-focused dance program set to make its Chicago premiere.

Natchez Documentary + Bob Dylan As Filmmaker Book

Gary Zidek

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with the director behind a thought-provoking new documentary that puts a spotlight on a southern town grappling with its dark history. The Dueling Critics join Gary to review a world premiere titled PIVOT.  Later in the show, Gary checks in with Chicago-based filmmaker & author Michael Glover Smith to talk about his new book BOB DYLAN AS FILMMAKER: NO TIME TO THINK. And we’ll visit a suburban music school that’s continues to grow.

Celebration Video Art + Democracy Documentary Series

Gary Zidek

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek talks to the filmmaker behind a new public video art project that utilizes old home movies to create something new. The Dueling Critics join Gary to review a new production of an acclaimed play from the early 80s. Later in the show, Gary takes a closer look at WTTW’s new documentary series FIRSTHAND, which is putting a spotlight on democracy this season. And we’ll hear all about what’s on display at the Chicago Architecture Biennial which is open for another week.

Joffrey Ballet Celebrates American Icons + Small Arts Funding

Gary Zidek

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with the Joffrey Ballet’s artistic director to talk about the company’s legacy as it turns 70 and to preview its upcoming winter program. The Dueling Critics join Gary to review a new version of old rom-com, Goodman Theater’s new production of HOLIDAY. Later in the show, Gary checks in with a program director at the Donnelley Foundation to discuss some of the challenges local small arts organizations are facing right now. And we’ll visit a Tiffany Lamps exhibit.

Irish-Themed Musical + Vocalist Alyssa Allgood

Gary Zidek

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with celebrated theater artist David Girolmo to learn more a new Irish musical he’s directing. Gary also sits down with theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel for a conversation about his life as a critic. And later, we’ll check in with local jazz vocalist Alyssa Allgood to talk about her new release and what’s next.

Kelli Connell Exhibit + Ice Art

Gary Zidek

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with artist Kelli Connell to talk about a new two part exhibit of her work at the Elmhurst Art Museum. The Dueling Critics will join me to review a new production from A RED ORCHID THEATER. Later in the show, we’ll learn all about one of the country’s premiere ice sculpting businesses that just so happens to be located in the suburbs.

International Jazz Day Comes to Chicago + Eureka Day Review

Gary Zidek

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek has all the details of International Jazz Day 2026. Chicago will host the global celebration of jazz this year. Illinois Govenor JB Pritzker, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, and jazz legend Herbie Hancock were among the luminaries at a Jazz Day launch event. Theater Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Kathy Hey, join Gary to review Timeline Theater’s EUREKA DAY. Later in the show, Gary revisits his conversation with celebrated producer and musician Don Was.

MLK Tribute Concert + Paul Marinaro's New ALbum

Gary Zidek

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek previews the latest installment of a Chicago orchestra’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. tribute concert. Gary also revisits a suburban man who is responsible for some of the most candid photos that exist of the late civil rights leader. Later in the show, Gary catches up with Chicago-based vocalist Paul Marinaro to talk about his new album, MOOD ELLINGTON. And we’ll hear what the Dueling Critics have to say about a new play titled THE UNKNOWN VARIABLE.

American Prophets Exhibit + Favorite Films of 2025

Gary Zidek

On this editon of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes a closer look at a new exhibit that highlights the ways spirituality influences authors. Later in the show, we enter awards season, Gary spotlights hist top 10 movies of the past year. Films didn’t make as much money as expected, but the quality was there. And we’ll hear what the Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, have to say about Steppenwolf Theater’s latest.

Happy New Year!

Gary Zidek

Happy New Year! On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes a look back at 2025. First up, food critic Nick Allen discusses his favorite new restaurants that opened in 2025. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to talk about their favorite productions from the last 12 months. Later in the show, WDCB music director Paul Abella joins Gary to chat about his favorite jazz albums of 2025. And we’ll hear from local artist Andi Crist.