July 7: James Lumber Center's Jump Start July sale to kick off subscription sales

Whether your tastes include music, acrobatics, dance or comedy, you will enjoy plenty of great entertainment options in the James Lumber Center (JLC) for the Performing Arts 2014-15 Professional Touring Season at the College of Lake County.

On Monday, July 7, subscriptions will go on sale at a new event called "Jump Start July." That day, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., patrons who purchase a subscription (buying tickets to at least three events) will be entered in a drawing to receive that subscription for free! Patrons can purchase subscriptions at the Box Office in the JLC, located on the Grayslake campus, 19351 W. Washington St. or by phone. Patrons who purchase tickets to three or more different events enjoy special subscriber benefits and the greatest discount over single-ticket prices. Some restrictions apply; call the Box Office at (847) 543-2300 for more details on the Jump Start July promotion.

The 18th season kicks off with the return of the sizzling Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theatre on Sept. 13. Three other CLC favorites are back this year: the American roots musical duo Switchback (Martin McCormack and Brian FitzGerald) on Jan. 16, the ever-popular Golden Dragon Acrobats on Feb. 20 and the hilarious comedy group Second City on April 10. Two musical comedy performances round out the season: "Broadway's Next H!T Musical" on March 13 and "I've Got A Little Twist" on May 9.

Many styles of music will be featured during the 2014-15 season. The entertainment includes ABBA MANIA on Nov. 7, singer/actress Jasmine Guy and the Avery Sharpe Trio performing "Raisin' Cane: A Harlem Renaissance" on Oct. 18 and holiday music (A Carpenters Christmas with Lisa Rock on Dec. 9 and Michael Londra's Celtic Yuletide on Dec. 21).

"We have selected an excellent variety of events for our audiences to enjoy this season," said Gwethalyn Bronner, executive director, James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts. "From Latin dance to Irish music, from Broadway show tunes to acrobatics to comedy, it's going to be another season of outstanding live entertainment, right here in Grayslake. With free parking and reasonable ticket prices, the James Lumber Center should be your local live entertainment destination," Bronner said. "And remember our pre-show mingle is great for gathering with friends to enjoy refreshments before the show."

2014-15 James Lumber Center Professional Touring Season Events (held in the Mainstage Theatre unless noted)

Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theatre: Saturday, Sept. 13 at 8 p.m. Internationally recognized for excellence in showcasing exciting Spanish dance, music and culture, this sizzling Chicago-based company returns to CLC with their romantic moves.

Raisin' Cane: A Harlem Renaissance Odyssey starring Jasmine Guy and the Avery Sharpe Trio: Saturday, Oct. 18 at 8 p.m. Enjoy the stories and jazz music of the Harlem Renaissance with Jasmine Guy ("The Cosby Show" and "A Different World") and acclaimed bassist Avery Sharpe.

ABBA MANIA The Official West End Tribute Show: Friday, Nov. 7 at 8 p.m., recreates one of the world's finest pop groups, with favorites such as "Mamma Mia," "Dancing Queen," "Super Trouper" and more.

A Carpenters Christmas: Tuesday, Dec. 9 at 7:30 p.m. Back by popular demand, Lisa Rock and her band performs a delightful holiday show, based on The Carpenters' holiday albums and TV variety shows.

Michael Londra's Celtic Yuletide - A Christmas From Ireland: Sunday, Dec. 21 at 4 p.m. Called "one of the greatest Irish singers of our time," Londra's Irish Christmas show features world-class dancers, classic Irish stories and heartwarming traditional carols.

Switchback: Friday, Jan. 16 at 8 p.m. (Studio Theatre). In this Americana program, Brian FitzGerald and Martin McCormack draw on their superb songwriting and delightful harmonies to play a repertoire that ranges from sentimental ballads to blistering rock songs, reflecting both their Midwestern roots and Irish heritage.

"Straight From Broadway!" The Golden Dragon Acrobats present Cirque Ziva: Friday, Feb. 20 at 8 p.m. Exciting acrobatics are featured in this fast-paced, technically innovative and beautifully presented new show, which enjoyed a five week run at Broadway's New Victory Theatre.

Broadway's Next H!T Musical: Friday, March 13 at 8 p.m. A hilarious team of master improvisers create an evening of music and laughter gathered from made-up, hit song suggestions from the audience, turning it into a full-blown improvised musical!

The Second City Hits Home: Friday, April 10 at 8 p.m. Chicago's famous comedy troupe serves up comedic twists on today's headlines to keep audiences giggling.

I've Got A Little Twist: Saturday, May 9 at 8 p.m. (Studio Theatre). The New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players perform a comedic mash-up cabaret of musical hits: "The Mikado" meets "The Music Man" and "HMS Pinafore" sets sail for "Brigadoon."

At the JLC Box Office Blitz on Saturday, Sept. 13 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., patrons can purchase discounted tickets to single Professional Touring Series shows and enjoy discount rates on select college performances (patrons must purchase tickets in person), plus prizes, backstage tours, technical hands-on opportunities and a video preview of the series.

Subscriber ticket prices for Professional Series shows range from $24 to $44, with three different price levels available for Mainstage theatre shows. When purchased with adult subscription, subscriptions for teens age 12-17 are $13 per show, with children under 12 paying just $10 (plus fees). CLC students may order a special new Flex Package, for $13 each for three different shows, Mainstage Level III seating.

The deadline to purchase Professional Touring Season Subscriptions (three or more events) is Sept. 15. Subscribers receive best seats available, guaranteed same seats for all events, personalized assistance creating their subscription, handling and exchange fees waived and ticket exchanges up to 24 hours prior to the event during regular Box Office hours. A dedicated subscriber phone line for ordering is available at (847) 986-1800. A $2 per ticket JLC facility fee will be added at the time of purchase. Other fees may apply.

Subscription tickets can be purchased at the Box Office in the James Lumber Center, room P112 on the Grayslake campus, 19351 W. Washington St., or by phone. Subscriptions are not available for online purchase, but patrons can learn more at www.clcillinois.edu/tickets. For more information, call the Box Office at (847) 543-2300 (option 5). The Box Office is open Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Single tickets (not part of a subscription of three or more events) go on sale Aug. 25.

To request a James Lumber Center subscription brochure or the 2014-15 CLC cultural arts calendar, which includes professional series as well as college-sponsored events such as music concerts, theatre and dance productions, films, art exhibits, literary events and much more, call (847) 543-2300 or join the mailing list at www.clcillinois.edu/tickets. Professional events make excellent group outings, with groups of six or more people eligible for discounted ticket prices. Call group sales at (847) 543-2431 or email JLCgroupsales@clcillinois.edu for more information.