Metropolis reveals lineup for new season
More concerts, new shows, and lots of comedy. That’s what Metropolis patrons asked for in the upcoming season, and theater officials delivered.
At the Metropolis Gala on Friday, the center’s biggest fundraiser, supporters heard all about the upcoming season, as they gathered off site for the first time, to accommodate the theater’s growing fan base.
“It adds such a vibrant scene to the town,” Steve Fromm of Arlington Heights said.
Blues guitarist Robert Cray headed the list of guest artists playing Metropolis. Cray played two sold-out shows there last summer and he returns on June 18 for a return engagement.
In addition, Grammy Award winner Shawn Mullins returns along with actor Kevin Bacon and the Bacon Brothers in the new season. Add in a subscription series of plays, a comedy lineup and children’s series, and Metropolis supporters had lots to celebrate.
They converged on the European Crystal Banquets in Arlington Heights for a little music, a taste of theater and a gourmet meal. Proceeds from the event benefited the Metropolis School of the Performing Arts and its outreach programs.
Jim Jarvis, Metropolis executive director, announced the new season’s highlights.
“We got more than 12,000 surveys from our subscribers and single-ticket patrons this year,” Jarvis said, “and this new lineup is a direct response to what our audience wants to see.”
Fans wanted an expanded concert series, he said, with tribute bands playing music they liked. Patrons will recognize hits played by Fleetwood Mix, Reely Dan, and Heartache Tonight.
As far as theater offerings, Jarvis said fans told him they wanted to see shows that hadn’t been done a lot in the Chicago market. Consequently, the new season will feature a mix of comedies and musicals, starting with “The Andrews Brothers,” and “The Complete History of America (abridged),” before another original work by resident playwright Scott Woldman, “10 Ways to Kill Your Husband.”
The series closes with a comedy, which follows two couples through the course of their marriages, called “Married Alive!”
Jarvis described the lineup as “well-rounded,” with its comedy series, featuring “Sex & the Second City: A Romantic Dot Comedy,” and “Flanagan’s Wake,” as well as its popular holiday standards, including “A Christmas Carol” and the Second City’s “Holiday in the Heights.”
“We’ve been really fortunate,” Jarvis said. “Even in a down economy, people keep coming to shows and supporting Metropolis. I think we’re in a position to offer people an escape from all the craziness that’s taking place around us.
“Even if it’s just for a couple hours, they get to laugh, sing, spend time with family and friends, unwind and recharge.”