WTTW's Phil Ponce on Sunday launches fall season at Barrington's White House

WTTW's Phil Ponce will kick off the 2017 fall season at Barrington's White House with a talk about politics, social trends and the arts at 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 17.

VIP tickets to the presentation by the host of "Chicago Tonight" are $40, adults $30 and students $10.

This year's lineup features 18 events, up from nine last year, said White House Cultural programming chair Rollin Potter.

"We are, this year, which is only our second full season, trying to respond to the strong support we have seen in audience size and encouragement," he said. "We hope to become the Barrington area's most comprehensive source for cultural programming."

Demand is so strong for Ron Keaton's one-man show Oct. 22 at 3 p.m. that a second show has been added at 7:30 p.m. VIP tickets include premiere seating and a reception after the show with Keaton.

New this year is the 3rd Thursday series, beginning Sept. 21, when the regal White House will provide free admission to view a showcase of local art work and will offer a local musical group performing in the Golden Ballroom upstairs for $20 or less. A cash bar will be provided.

"3rd Thursdays will focus on both the visual and performing arts," Potter said. "We hope to provide Barrington area artists with regular opportunities to showcase their works and also provide their following with a 'night out' musical performance and another reason to frequent area restaurants."

The 3rd Thursday lineup includes:

• Sept. 21, artist Margarita Bauer at 6:30 p.m. and the James Pedicone Band, acoustic singers/songwriters at 7:30 p.m.

• Oct. 19, artist Veronica Potter at 6:30 p.m. and Jazz Pizazz with soprano Kimberly Albrecht at 7:30 p.m.

• Nov. 16, artist Carol Foster at 6:30 p.m. and Barrington Music Institute at 7:30 p.m.

Barrington's White House is at 145 Main St. For the entire schedule and ticket information, go to www.BarringtonsWhiteHouse.com, or call (224) 512-4284.