AcapellaFest brings voice art to Schaumburg
Now in its third year, AcapellaFest seeks to bring artistic prowess and education to audiences across the Midwest.
AcapellaFest Chicago takes place at the Schaumburg Prairie Center for the Arts in Schaumburg Saturday, Oct. 24, and there will be something for everyone: from classes on beatboxing to songwriting and performances from legendary vocal groups like The Bobs and Blue Jupiter. Favorite regional entertainers will round out the daylong festival.
A matinee showcase at 2 p.m. will also feature a performance by Cloud Nine from Waubonsie Valley High School in Aurora, winner of the fest's high school competition.
In addition to workshops throughout the day, patrons can opt to attend the afternoon or evening performances, or buy an all-day pass for $30.
"With AcapellaFest, we want to make musical entertainment and education accessible to everyone. Singing without instruments showcases the natural human voice and allows people to experiment with different styles," said Jeff Swearingen, co-executive producer of the festival and public relations director for Vocal Chaos, one of the featured acts. "This year we decided to offer a little more for our audience in the Windy City, so they can come learn something new or simply enjoy quality vocal music."
Vocal Chaos, made up of Chicago and suburban residents, is going strong after 13 years. The group strives to collaborate with other like-minded bands and organizations to perform and promote the art form of a cappella. Some of the members were featured in the Jennifer Aniston film "The Break Up" and in many locally produced TV and radio programs.
If you go
What: AcapellaFest 2009 Chicago, with workshops, performances and Q&A
When: 9:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24; matinee performance at 2 p.m.; evening performance at 8 p.m.
Who: The Bobs, Blue Jupiter, Chicago Voice Exchange, Voices In Your Head, Vocal Chaos
Where: Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg
Cost: $15 for day events, $20 for evening show, $30 for festival pass
Tickets or info: acappellafest.com or (847) 895-3600