direction tour marketing + promotion blog

RAIN @ Ford Center/Oriental Theatre

direction — Thu, 17 May 2012 15:55:18 +0000

Direct from Broadway, Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles will be at the Oriental Theatre for one week next month. The Washing Times has said, “The individual members of Rain are perfecting the posture, physical characteristics, facial and voice inflections of their namesake. The signature harmonies are truly spot on. The costuming is meticulous.” The Dallas Morning News has said “This is homage at its highest level, both in terms of adoration and execution.” If you’re a casual fan of the Fab Four or a full-out Beatlemaniac, this show is for you.

Direction has been hanging posters throughout the north shore and north west suburbs for this Broadway in Chicago production.

Rain plays June 26 to July 1 at the Ford Center/Oriental Theatre in the Loop. Please visit broadwayinchicago.com for tickets and more.

Freud's Last Session @ Mercury Theater

direction — Thu, 17 May 2012 14:53:20 +0000

After winning the Off-Broadway Alliance award for Best Play, the original production of “Freud’s Last Session” has come to Chicago. After spending over a year and a half in NYC, the original production is in Wrigleyville. This Noreen Heron & Associates production has recently been extended due to demand.

The direction team has been distributing materials for this play throughout East Lakeview, Lakeview and Wrigleyville.

“Freud’s Last Session’s” run at the Mercury Theater has been extended due to popular demand until July 15. To purchase tickets for this critically acclaimed play in a unique theater setting, please visit mercurytheaterchicago.com.

League of Chicago Theatres Summer Theatre Guide

direction — Thu, 17 May 2012 00:09:42 +0000

It’s difficult the navigate the Chicago theatre landscape. It’s one of the few cities that has the problem of too much going on. There are more productions being staged than nights to see them. Rather than miss out on what could be, go out and seize the night. The League of Chicago Theatres Summer Theatre Guide is just the right place to start. The guide features a listing and description of what this fair city has to offer.

The direction staff has been delivering this guide to hotels on our city concierge route. We’re reaching out to the tourists that make this a mecca for theater.

The League of Chicago Theatres Summer Theatre Brochure is available in most hotels and theaters. The guide can be downloaded from the League of Chicago Theaters site at chicagoplays.com.

Crooked @ Rivendell Theatre

direction — Thu, 17 May 2012 00:05:28 +0000

The Midwest premiere of “Crooked” opens next week at the Rivendell Theatre. The story of a young teenager, her deformed back, unstable mother and the short stories she pens, “Crooked” continues the tradition the Rivendell has set up as developing the talents of female theatrical performers.

The direction staff has been getting the word out for this premiere throughout Andersonville, Edgewater, Rogers Park and Evanson.

“Crooked” opens at the Rivendell Theatre in previews on May 17, opening night is May 20 and the regular run begins May 24 and the play runs until June 23. For more information about this fifteen years old homegrown theater company and to purchase tickets for “Crooked,” please visit rivendelltheatre.org.

Dream Theatre @ Chicago Theatre

direction — Wed, 16 May 2012 23:31:29 +0000

The classic rock band Dream Theatre is headed to Chicago on the heels of their most successful album to date. “A Dramatic Turn of Events” debuted at #8 on the Billboard charts and the song “On The Backs Of Angels” garned the band their first Grammy nomination in the Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance category.

The direction staff has been distributing promotions materials for this concert on our specialty Chicago metal route, specialty south suburban metal route and hand to hand at Fear Factory, Meshuggah, and Rogers Water shows.

Madison Square Garden Entertainment brings Dream Theatre with openers Crimson ProjeKct to the Chicago Theatre on June 23. Tickets for this performance are currently available. The show is likely to sell out so interested parties are encouraged to buy now. For seats and more upcoming shows at the Chicago Theatre, please visit thechicagotheatre.com.

Gotham City @ DCA Theatre

direction — Wed, 16 May 2012 04:47:43 +0000

The DCA Theatre is a wonderful downtown showcase for many black box theater companies across the city. Their next work will be a graphic novel told through dance. A mix of breakdancing, ballet, acrobatics and more from the Chicago Dance Crash, “Gotham City” is a different kind of production.

The direction team has been distributing materials for this upcoming theatrical experience on our specialty theatre route and on our downtown and Streeterville routes.

“Gotham City” will open at the DCA Theatre in the Loop on June 8 and run until July 15. For tickets and more information about this not too common theatre space, please visit dcatheater.org.

Hubbard Street Dance Company Summer Series @ Harris Theater

direction — Tue, 15 May 2012 16:00:30 +0000

Each season the Hubbard Street Dance Company stages some of the most world renowned dance to an audience of season ticket holders, dance aficionados and folks just looking for a night out. This upcoming season continues that artistic tradition. Over four nights starting on the last day of May the company will present the premiere of renowned choreographer William Forsythe’s new work “Quintett.” If you’re interested but haven’t been to a dance performance, this is an excellent opportunity to become acquainted with the art.

The direction team has been taking out promotional materials for the upcoming Hubbard season throughout the north side of Chicago, the north shore suburbs of Chicago and on our dance specialty route. We’ve also been getting the word out hand to hand at the Spring Desire and Humanities Festival.

The Summer Series at the Hubbard Street Dance Company only runs from May 31 to June 3. Tickets for this very limited run are currently on sale. For seats and more information about this world class dance company, please visit hubbardstreetdance.com.

Stuffed and Unstrung @ Bank of America Theatre

direction — Mon, 14 May 2012 21:45:20 +0000

For the folks that have been clamoring for more shows starring puppets, involving improv and material of the adult nature, “Stuffed and Unstrung” is finally coming to Chicago. The show has been getting rave reviews at comedy festivals since 2006. Their most recent claims to fame were backing up Cee-Lo and Gwyneth Paltrow at the Grammy’s and appearing on this seasons “Celebrity Apprentice.” Part fuzzy, part funny, all puppet, “Stuffed and Unstrung” is stopping by for a guaranteed to sell out run next month.

The direction staff has been taking out materials for this upcoming run on our specialty Comics route.

“Stuffed and Unstrung” will be at the Bank of America Theatre for one week only, June 12 to 17. The show is rated R and contains language and themes that are not intended for unaccompanied children under the age of 17. How often can you say that about a musical starring puppets? For tickets and more information about Broadway in Chicago, please visit broadwayinchicago.com.

The Blonde, The Brunette and the Vengeful Redhead @ Writers' Theatre

direction — Mon, 14 May 2012 17:00:05 +0000

Rhonda Russell loses control. In a moment of passion, she changes her life and sets off a series of unbelievable events. “The Blonde, the Brunette, and the Vengeful Redhead” opens next week at the Writers Theatre. This international hit is a story of a loss and redemption.

The direction staff has been distributing materials for this upcoming play throughout the north side of Chicago and the north shore suburbs.

“The Blonde, the Brunette, and the Vengeful Redhead” opens at the 664 Vernon Avenue location of the Writers Theatre on May 22 and runs until July 29. For tickets and more information about the just announced 2012-13 season, please visit writerstheatre.org.

Sherwood Music Conservatory

direction — Thu, 10 May 2012 18:00:31 +0000

The Sherwood Music Conservatory is an excellent destination for the teenager in your house that may want to pursue the art form as a career. As a member of the National Guild of Community Schools of the Arts, Sherwood is the place for serious, aspiring artists as well as amateurs interested in expanding their musical horizon. The school begins their summer registation next week and will be producing concerts and special events throughout the season.

The direction staff has distributed the Sherwood summer catalog throughout the city. Our staff has taken materials on our music culture specialty route, targeting instrument stores, sheet music stores, training center and more.

The Sherwood Music Conservatory has classes in the spring, summer, winter and fall. For school information and class registrations for all ages, please visit colum.edu.

A Little Night Music @ Writers Theatre

direction — Thu, 10 May 2012 16:00:39 +0000

Set in turn of the century Sweden, “A Little Night Music” is at the Writers Theatre. The Stephen Sondheim musical is about Desirée Armfeldt, a female that has a way with men. When her lovers and her lovers wives show up for a weekend in the country, new possibilities arise.

The direction staff has been taking out Writers Theatre materials on our north shore and northwest suburban routes.

“A Little Night Music” will run at the 325 Tudor Court location of the Writers Theatre until July 8. Tickets for this run are currently on sale. Seats and more information about the Writers Theatre can be found at writerstheatre.org.

Dead or Alive @ Vittum Theatre

direction — Thu, 10 May 2012 01:15:34 +0000

The direction staff is thrilled to be working with Chicago Slamworks for the first time. This poetry collective is about to stage the exciting, not your typical poetry reading later this month at the Vittum Theatre. “Dead or Alive? The Battle Royale for Slam Poetry Supremacy for All Eternity!” places up and coming Chicago poets against classic, but dead, poets from history. It’s a meeting of the future and past, all for poetry glory.

The direction staff has been distributing posters and handbills for Chicago Slamworks throughout Uptown, Edgewater and Rogers Park. We’ve also hit hot spots for poetry slams on our custom Literati route.

Chicago Slamworks’ “Dead or Alive” will be at the Vittum Theatre on Friday, May 25. Tickets for this one night only event can be found at chicagoslamworks.com.

In the Forest, Dark and Deep @ The Main Stage

direction — Wed, 09 May 2012 17:00:16 +0000

The Profiles Theatre is staging Neil LaBute’s newest play “In the Forest, Dark and Deep” at their new home, The Main Stage. The Chicago Tribune has said nice words about the work. “The latest LaBute drama, now in its American premiere at the Profiles Theatre in Chicago, contains various twists from a prolific playwright who, increasingly, takes as much care as he can to defy expectations and confound the identity ascribed to him by outsiders.”

The direction team has been distributing direction printworks produced for this play. We’ve been taking those materials out throughout the more theater friendly neighborhoods of the north side of Chicago.

“In the Forest, Dark and Deep” from the Profiles Theatre runs at The Main Stage through June 3. For tickets and more information about this debut, please visit profilestheatre.org.

Rent @ American Theatre Company

direction — Wed, 09 May 2012 03:00:47 +0000

There are three types of musical fans. People that love “Rent,” people that like “Rent” but are tired of their friends singing the score and those who haven’t seen but will love “Rent.” The modern classic is currently being staged at the American Theatre Company in North Center. Celebrated Broadway director David Cromer has returned to Chicago to direct this production.

The direction staff has been letting Chicago know that “Rent” is back by stopping at retail stores to drop off handbills and hang fliers throughout the north side.

“Rent” runs at the American Theatre Company until June 17. Tickets for most shows will sell out so interested parties are encouraged to pick up seats in advance. For tickets and more information about this Chicago theater institution, please visit atcweb.org.

[title of show] @ Northlight Theatre

direction — Wed, 09 May 2012 01:30:49 +0000

You know how “Seinfeld” was a show about nothing but everything? How “The Larry Sanders Show” was about a talk show, the process of what going into creating a piece of art? “[title of show]” comes from that proud tradition of shows about the creative process. The musical received a Tony nomination for Best Book of a Musical in 2009 for good reason.

The direction staff has been distributing promotional materials for this production throughout the north side of Chicago and north shore suburbs. Direction printworks handled the production of promotional materials.

“[title of show]” runs at the Northlight Theatre in Skokie until June 10. Tickets for this musical and more information about the Northlight can be found at northlight.org.

The Whole World is Watching @ Victory Gardens Biograph Theatre

direction — Mon, 07 May 2012 23:39:18 +0000

Presented by the Dog & Pony Theatre Company, “The Whole World is Watching” officially begins its Chicago run this weekend. Based on the events surrounding the infamous 1968 Democratic National Convention, the play tells a piece of Chicago’s bloody, not so protest friendly history. Told through viewpoints of police officers, journalists, clergy and demonstrators, with new music and projections, this event is an interactive experience ideal for any lifelong Chicagoan.

The direction team has been distributing promotional materials for this Dog & Pony show throughout the more theater friendly neighborhoods on the north side of Chicago.

“The Whole World is Watching” runs at the Victory Gardens Biograph Theatre in the Rehearsal Room in previews on May 11, beginning its regular run May 12. For tickets and more information about this show and other visiting companies coming to Victory Gardens, please visit victorygardens.org.

tick, tick…BOOM! @ Stage 773

direction — Mon, 07 May 2012 16:00:12 +0000

Before the phenomenon of “Rent,” Jonathan Larson had “tick, tick… BOOM!” The Porchlight Music Theatre is bringing the late, great Larson’s earlier work to the Lakeview space Stage 773. A story that any artist can relate to, Jon is with a girlfriend that wants to get married, best friends with much more financially successful individual and still trying to make the art he wants.

The direction staff has been taking out handbills and posters for this recently opened production throughout the north side of Chicago and on our college campus distribution.

“tick, tick…BOOM!” runs once a day Friday, Saturday and Sunday at Stage 773 with a special second performance on June 1. The production will run until June 10. For tickets and more information about the Porchlight Music Theatre, visit porchlightmusictheatre.org.

The March @ Steppenwolf Theatre

direction — Thu, 03 May 2012 18:15:04 +0000

Co-commissioned with Oregon Shakespeare Festival as part of their American Revolutions: the United States History Cycle and winner of an Edgerton Foundation New American Play award, “The March” is currently being staged at the Steppenwolf Theatre. General William Tecumseh Sherman, leads 62,000 Union troops through Georgia. Changing the lives of a liberated slave, a sheltered daughter of a Southern judge, a pair of Confederate deserters and himself, this drama of war has far reaching connections. The Chicago Tribune has praised the play, giving a three star review.

The direction team has been taking out Steppenwolf materials throughout the north side of Chicago and north shore suburbs.

“The March” runs at the Steppenwolf Theatre until June 10. For tickets, a comprehensive look at this production, the play and the Steppenwolf, please visit steppenwolf.org.

Pride & Prejudice @ Lifeline Theatre

direction — Thu, 03 May 2012 16:15:49 +0000

Jane Austen’s classic “Pride & Prejudice” is currently on the north side. The Lifeline Theatre production has been garnering excellent press from the Chicago Reader, Chicago Theater Beat and more. The company is Jeff Recommended. It’s hard to go wrong with classic source material, positive reviews and the Off Broadway industry’s highest honor.

The direction team has been taking out Lifeline Theatre promotional materials throughout the more theater friendly neighborhoods of the north side of Chicago.

“Pride & Prejudice” runs at the Lifeline Theatre in Rogers Park until June 10. Tickets for this well received and classic show are currently on sale. For seats and more information about the Lifeline, please visit lifelinetheatre.com.

The Receptionist @ Steep Theatre

direction — Thu, 03 May 2012 13:00:19 +0000

The Steep Theatre is taking you into a seemingly mundane office. The play “The Receptionist” puts the audience in an extremely familiar setting with not quite familiar work. Time Out Chicago gave the play a four star review and the The Chicago Tribune has praised the play, giving a three star review with kind words for the cast and director.

Both direction and direction printworks is pleased to be working for the Steep Theatre for the first time. In addition to producing their promotional materials, we also handled the distribution of materials on our Edgewater, Rogers Park and Andersonville routes.

“The Receptionist” will be at the Steep Theatre until May 19. For tickets and more information about the company, please visit steeptheatre.com.

Burlesque @ Gorilla Tango Theatre

direction — Thu, 03 May 2012 02:30:43 +0000

The Gorilla Tango Theatre has slowly but surely become Chicago’s home for burlesque. Every night of the week they house burlesque, sketch, improv, plays and musicals. They’re mainly known for their excellent, campy burlesque send ups of “Star Wars,” Super Mario Brothers and other things that make nerds very happy.

Direction and direction printworks are extremely pleased to be working for the Gorilla Tango for the first time. We’ve handled the printing and distribution of their promotional materials throughout Lakeview, Bucktown and on our comics specialty route.

The Gorilla Tango Theatre in Bucktown has shows every night of the week, with most weekends staging at least four a night. For a full list of shows and schedule, please visit gorillatango.com.

Lend Me A Tenor @ Citadel Theatre

direction — Thu, 03 May 2012 01:23:54 +0000

The musical farce is a long standing stage tradition. Set in September 1934, the Cleveland Grand Opera Company is elated to have world famous tenor Tito Morelli set to open their season. The night of the big performance, Morelli goes missing, setting off a set of hilarious misadventures. A hit on Broadway and in London’s West End, this musical should do quite well on Chicago’s north shore.

The direction team has distributed handbills and posters for this run throughout most neighborhoods on the north shore of Chicago.

“Lend Me A Tenor” will be at the Citadel Theatre West Campus performance space, 300 S. Waukegan Road in Lake Forest, Thursday through Sunday until June 3. Tickets and more information about the Citadel can be found at citadeltheatre.org.

Summer Intensive @ Columbia College

direction — Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:47 +0000

Not sure what to do this summer? Interested in dance but never took a class? The Columbia College Dance School is offering a summer intensive, designed to teach dance technique, repertory and choreography with an informal show at end of semester. Taught by multi-hyphenate artist and educator d. Sabela grimes aka Ovasoul7 and Caroline Fermin of Gallim Dance, these two sessions offer an excellent opportunity for old dancers and new parties a chance to move.

The direction team has been distributing handbills and hanging poster for the Summer Dance Intensive on our specialty urban hipster route.

Registration has begun for the Columbia College Summer Dance Intensive has begun. The deadline is May 11. Once spots are filled, folks will be put on a waiting list. Interested parties are encouraged to sign up now!

Girls Night: The Musical @ Genesee Theatre

direction — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 20:45:48 +0000

If you’re looking to blow off some steam on the north shore, head to the Genesee a few Saturday’s from now for the one night only performance of “Girls Night: The Musical.” This feel-good comedy about five female friends blowing off some stream at a karaoke bar is perfect for a group night out.

The direction office staff created a new woman-centric North Shore route targeting salons, spas, nail salons, gourmet grocers, boutiques and more for this special event.

“Girls Night: The Musical” will be at the Genesee Theatre on Saturday, May 19. Tickets for this one night only performance are currently available. For seats and a complete list of upcoming shows at the Genesee, please visit geneseetheatre.com.

Lookingglass Theatre Summercamps

direction — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 18:00:04 +0000

Look to the Lookingglass Theatre for where to send your children this summer. This Chicago theater company is offering multiple opportunities for kids of almost all ages to get a taste of the arts. The Arts Quest Camp is for kids 5 to 8. These two week sessions immerse children in storytelling, music and art in addition to taking multiple field trips to Chicago institutions like the MSI and Planetarium. For kids 8 to 14 there’s the Summerglass Camp. Students will learn stage combat, juggling, stilt walking, and tumbling and at the end of the two week session will stage a performance for family and friends. For the teen crowd there’s Lookingglass Lab. These two week classes are for the student interested in the theater for a career. Students work in the Lookingglass style of play creation and focus on a single theme. Registration is now open for all camps.

The direction team has been distributing camp materials to our children’s and family specialty routes.

All Lookingglass Theatre summer camps are now open for enrollment. Please visit lookingglasstheatre.org for information about each camp, the current season and upcoming productions at the Lookingglass.

May @ Chicago History Museum

direction — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 13:41:14 +0000

Each month the Chicago History Museum features events that expand the reach of their museum. Just because a certain artifact or exhibit isn’t on the floor doesn’t mean it should be ignored. The CHM remedies this by hosting almost daily events. One we’re looking forward to is 100 Years of Studs Terkel, a celebration on the day that woud be the author, audio documentarian, Chicagoan’s birhday on Wednesday, May 16. WFMT Critic-at-Large Andrew Patner will explore Studs’s life, legacy and contributions to history through radio and TV clips from his 75-year broadcast career.

The direction staff has been distributing CHS posters throughout all neighborhoods of Chicago and some surrounding suburbs.

The Chicago History Museum is open seven days a week. Most days feature at least one special event. Please visit chicagohistory.org for more information about tonight and to plan a visit or CHM outing that would suit your needs.

Summer Concerts @ Old Town School of Folk Music

direction — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:53 +0000

In addition to being a world class music school that reaches out to all ages in all genres, the Old Town School of Folk Music is also a world class music venue that brings in all types of music from around the world. We’re looking forward to rock turned into jazz from The Bad Plus, folk troubadour Billy Bragg, a 100th birthday celebration of Woody Guthrie, vaudeville from The Ditty Bops and more.

The direction team has been distributing brochures, handbills and hanging posters for the OTSFM summer concerts throughout all corners of Chicago.

The Old Town School of Folk Music has concerts most evenings at their Lincoln Square location. Tickets for all of the summer concerts are currently on sale. Please visit oldtownschool.org/concerts for a complete list of shows, tickets and information about the OTSFM.

Cats @ Cadillac Palace Theatre

direction — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 19:15:58 +0000

“Cats,” yes, the longest continuously touring show in American theatre history “Cats,” is coming to Chicago next month for one week only. “Cats” has been staged in five continents, 26 countries, for over eight and a half million audience members and almost 30 years later, is still going strong. This musical launched a revolution in theater and deserves to be seen in a gorgeous, downtown palace.

The direction team has been hanging posters for this limited run throughout the north side of Chicago.

“Cats” will be at the Cadillac Palace Theatre from May 1 to 6. Seats for these performances will sell out so interested parties are encouraged to buy tickets now. For more information on “Cats” and other Broadway in Chicago shows, please visit broadwayinchicago.com.

Million Dollar Quartet @ Apollo Theatre

direction — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 16:50:30 +0000

To say the longest running show in Chicago, “Million Dollar Quartet,” holds a special place in our heart is a bit on an understatement. We’ve been happily promoting this hit, Tony award winning musical for a few years and we hope it never ends. Though Elvis, Jerry Lee, Carl and Johnny only played music together on tape one magical evening, this production is keeping the music alive. The legends of rock, country and rockabilly are still going strong in Lincoln Park and across the world. You don’t have to head to Broadway when the legends are alive in your backyard.

The direction team has been promoting this Allied Live musical throughout the city and suburbs, making sure everyone living on the north side and near north side knows about MDQ.

“Million Dollar Quartet” is running at the Apollo Theatre, just a few blocks from the Red and Brown Line Lincoln Park El station. For tickets, show times and videos from the musical, please visit milliondollarquartetlive.com.

SAIC Kids Summer Camps

direction — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:55:33 +0000

In addition to being a world class art museum, the Art Institute of Chicago is also a learning institution for almost all ages. Yes, the university produces some of the art worlds finest, but they also encourage younger students to create. The School of the Art Institute offers one and two week summer camps for children ages four to thirteen. With classes ranging from drawing to fashion to toy design, there’s a focus for everyone.

The direction team has been taking out brochures for the School of Art Institute summer classes on our specialty kids and family route.

Class registration is currently open for the SAIC Kids Summer Camps. Visit saic.edu for schedules, enrollment and more information.

Lucha VaVoom @ Park West

direction — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 20:00:00 +0000

When I think of Cinco De Mayo, I think of burlesque dancers and acrobatic wrestlers, sex and violence. That last sentence wasn’t entirely accurate. It should have said, after this Cinco De Mayo, after seeing a special edition of “Lucha VaVOOM,” I’ll be thinking about two awesome things when May 5 pops into my head. The extremely fun, extremely visual “Lucha VaVOOM” is headed back to Chicago for another round. Masked Mexican wrestlers battle and sexy ladies striptease. If you’re a plan of fun things, go to this fun thing.

Direction has been promoting this Jam Production on our custom made Hipster route, Lakeview, Wicker Park and other hip Chicago neighborhoods.

“Lucha VaVOOM” comes to the Park West for a special Cinco De Mayo show on May 5. Please visit jamusa.com for tickets and more information.

A Brown Bear, A Moon, and A Caterpillar @ Victory Gardens Biograph Theatre

direction — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 16:00:57 +0000

From the company that staged the sold-out run of “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia’s is back in town with the brand new “A Brown Bear, A Caterpillar And A Moon: Treasured Stories By Eric Carle.” Based on the works of that famous and beloved author, these performances feature all new music, visual effects and puppetry that both entertains and educates.

The direction team has been distributing handbills and hanging posters for this Chicago Children’s Theatre production on our newly expanded kids and family specialty route.

Chicago Children’s Theatre presents Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia’s “A Brown Bear, A Moon, and A Caterpillar: Treasured Stories by Eric Carle” will be at the Victory Gardens Biograph Theatre from May 2 to 27. Tickets for these performances will likely sell out so interested parties are encouraged to secure seats in advance. For tickets and more information about the Victory Gardens, please visit victorygardens.org.

Jersey Boys @ Bank of America Theatre

direction — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 18:00:06 +0000

After wowing more than 13 million people, “Jersey Boys” shows no signs of slowing down. The musical story of Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi that has picked up some Tony, Grammy and Olivier Awards is back in town. All the hits, “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “Oh What a Night” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” are crowd pleasers.

The direction team has been hanging posters and distributing handbills for this Broadway in Chicago production throughout the suburbs of Chicago.

“Jersey Boys” continues its run at the beautiful Bank of America Theatre in Chicago’s Loop until June 3. Tickets for this hugely successful production are currently available. For seats and a complete list of current and upcoming Broadway in Chicago shows, please visit broadwayinchicago.com.

April @ Chicago History Museum

direction — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 15:30:19 +0000

Just because the Chicago Rocks! series has wrapped doesn’t mean the Chicago History Museum is staying quiet. This weekend their “Devil in the White City” tour takes willing participants on a chilling ride through legendary Hyde Park World’s Fair locales. The month closes with their Booze, Bars, and Bootlegging pub crawl, giving 21+ participants and excellent opportunity to try out a few new taverns.

The direction staff has been distributing CHS posters throughout all neighborhoods of Chicago and some surrounding suburbs.

Chicago Opera Theater 2012 Season

direction — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 03:28:00 +0000

The Chicago Opera Theater has just begun their 2012 Season. Two performances, “Moscow, Cheryomushki” and “Teseo” run throughout April and one May date and “The Magic Flute” will be staged in September. From a Soviet satire to a Handel classic to one of the world’s most well known works, the COT season is a well rounded trio of performances designed to please newcomers and opera lovers.

The direction staff has been quite busy promoting these three operas. In addition to our retail distribution throughout Chicago we’ve also been blanketing the north shore and making sure each city and nearby college campus has been hit.

The Chicago Opera Theater 2012 Season just begun and continues through September 23. All performances will be at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance in Millennium Park. Please visit chicagooperatheater.org for tickets and more information.

Angles in America @ Court Theatre

direction — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 19:43:32 +0000

The culturally important and long running “Angels in America” is currently being staged by the equally important and long standing Court Theatre. Set at the height of the AIDS academic, this two part drama has been adapted to screen, staged across the country and is a must see for any theater lover. Both parts, “Millennium Approaches” and “Perestroika,” are being staged separately.

The direction team has been hitting the south side and our specialty GLBT route to spread word about these Hyde Park based shows.

“Angels in America: Millennium Approaches and Perestroika” runs at the Court Theatre on the campus of the University of Chicago until June 3. Tickets for both performances, which can be seen in their entirety on most Wednesday’s, Saturday’s and Sunday’s and more information about Court is available at courttheatre.org.

Dead Can Dance @ Jay Pritzker Pavilion

direction — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 04:02:02 +0000

The Advice Agency is bringing the legendary Dead Can Dance to the beautiful Pritzker Pavilion. After influencing the forefathers of Lollapalooze, alternative and dance music, the group is finally touring the states. Dead Can Dance haven’t performed in Chicago in years, making this outdoor event in the Loop a guaranteed memorable evening.

The direction team has been taking out handbills and hanging posters for this one night only show throughout hipster neighborhoods and on our specialty hipster route.

Dead Can Dance will be at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park on August 21. Tickets and more information for this unique concert can be found at jamusa.com.

Rise of the Numberless @ Collaboraction Studio 300

direction — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 19:20:43 +0000

In a not too distant alternate reality, the country has been living under a one child per family regime. 50 years after the start of this mandatory program, a generation of forgotten souls are coming up. “Rise of the Numberless” from The New Colony tells the story of this group in a new, loud musical.

The direction team has been distributing posters and handbills for this production throughout the more theater friendly neighborhoods of Chicago’s north side.

“Rise of the Numberless” is being staged by The New Colony at Collaboraction Studio 300 in the Flat Iron Arts Building in the heart of Wicker Park. For tickets and more information about this ever evolving theater company, please visit thenewcolony.org.

Spring Desire @ Joffrey Ballet

direction — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 20:45:16 +0000

The Joffrey Ballet concludes their 2011-12 season with “Spring Desire,” a show consisting of three performances, all of which inspire romance. The first of three pieces, “In the Night” has been acclaimed by the Chicago Tribune. “Age of Innocence” is returning to the Joffrey and has been praised by the Chicago Sun-Times. “Incantations,” in its world premiere, features choreography from the acclaimed Val Caniparoli.

The direction team has been delivering Joffrey Ballet materials on our specialty concierge distribution. In addition to getting handbills and posters in stores, we also deliver materials to hotels, ensuring productions aren’t missed by visiting tourists.

“Spring Desire” will be at the Joffrey Ballet starting Wednesday, April 25 and running through Sunday, May 6. Tickets for this run are now available. Please visit joffrey.org/spring for more information about this run and the world class ballet company.

Timon of Athens @ Chicago Shakespeare Theater

direction — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 13:44:03 +0000

Timon is a successful businessman enjoying the riches of his labor. When the tide changes, he’s forced to confront a harsh reality. A timeless story, this production will star internationally celebrated actor Ian McDiarmid, from Royal Shakespeare Company, Broadway and “Star Wars.”

The direction staff has been distributing posters and handbills for this Chicago Shakespeare show throughout the more theater friendly neighborhoods of Chicago’s north side and north shore.

“Timon of Athens” will be at the Chicago Shakespeare Courtyard Theater from April 24 to June 10. Tickets are currently available. For more information about this play and other productions at the Chicago Shakespeare, please visit chicagoshakes.com.

Re-Spiced: A Silk Road Cabaret @ Chicago Temple Building

direction — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 18:15:42 +0000

A production that could only occur in a world class city, “Re-Spiced: A Silk Road Cabaret” is a wide reaching, fun, exciting, musical cornucopia of Asian and Middle Eastern imagery in American and British styled tunes. Running the gamut from pop to folk, poetry to prose, hip hop to country, the production brings in the audience, asking just who’s who.

The direction team has been distributing promotional materials on our theater route and our cultural music specialty route.

“Re-Spiced: A Silk Road Cabaret” runs Wednesday through Sunday at The Historic Chicago Temple Building in Pierce Hall in the Loop. For tickets, information about other upcoming Silk Road Rising productions and the renamed theater company, please visit silkroadrising.org.

Chicago Detours

direction — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 15:11:47 +0000

For tourists and city residents, Chicago Detours leads at least one tour that will interest you. You may have lived on the south side for sixty years or are fourteen and visiting your cousins for four days. Regardless of your place in Chicago, there’s part of Chicago that warrants exploration. We’re excited about their tour “Inside the Loop: Explore the Unexpected.” On the trip participants visit the buildings they’ve seen for years, viewing them with new insight. Part architecture tour, part Pedway tour, this tour is ideal for the casual admirer of Chicago’s Loop.

The direction team has taken out Chicago Architecture Tours promotional materials on our specialty architecture and design route.

Chicago Detours offers public tours Wednesday through Sunday, private tours seven days a week and school trips. For a list of current and upcoming tours, please visit chicagodetours.com.

The Touré-Raichel Collective @ Old Town School of Folk Music

direction — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 22:18:33 +0000

In addition to offering classes, highlighting local acts, selling instruments and creating communities, the Old Town School of Folk Music also brings in world class acts from around the globe. Next week musicians that have ties to Mali, Israel and Tel Aviv are visiting the Lincoln Square OTSFM for two shows. The Toure-Raichel Collective featuring Vieux Farka Touré, Idan Raichel, Souleymane Kane and Amit Carmeli are touring their new album, “The Tel Aviv Session.”

The direction team has been distributing OTSFM concert catalogues and hanging posters for this one night only show on our African Specialty Route.

The Touré-Raichel Collective will be at the Old Town School of Folk Music Gary and Laura Maurer Concert Hall next Thursday, April 19 for two shows. Tickets are now available for the performances. For seats, a complete list of upcoming performances, classes and more, visit oldtownschool.org.

Fish Men @ Goodman Theatre

direction — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 16:03:22 +0000

Based in Washington Square Park in New York City, “Fish Men” focuses on the lives of five chess hustlers. Set in real time, this play by Candido Tirdao, directed by Edward Torres, explores the inner demons that make up these chessmen. We’re happy to be promoting this Teatro Vista production world premiere.

The direction staff has been hitting our regular theater loving haunts on Chicago’s north side with posters and handbills for this debut.

“Fish Men” runs until May 6 at the Goodman Theatre in the Owen. Tickets for this world premiere are currently on sale. For seats and more information about this legendary Chicago theater, please visit goodmantheatre.org.

Judy at the Carnegie @ Mayne Stage

direction — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 01:00:56 +0000

Celebrating the 51st anniversary of one of modern musics most memorable concerts, Putting on the Ritz is staging “Judy at the Carnegie” for two nights at Rogers Park Mayne Stage. Chicago’s top cabaret vocalists will recreate that legendary evening song by song, anecdote by anecdote and costume by costume. Performers include Heather Currie, Elaine Dame, Elizabeth Doyle, Laura Freeman, Ester Hana, KT McCammond, Julia Merchant, Davenport’s front man Daryl Nitz, Stephen Rader, Tecora Rogers and special guest Honey West. Musical direction by George Howe with Nick Christensen on percussion, Jim Cox on bass and Mike Torte on horns.

The direction team has been taking promotional materials for these shows on our GLBT route.

Putting on the Ritz presents “Judy at the Carnegie” on Friday and Saturday, April 20 and 21. Tickets for both shows are now available. For seats, more information about the Mayne Stage and the Act One Gastropub, please visit maynestage.com.

Laugh Out Loud @ Genesee Theatre

direction — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 22:25:17 +0000

After 50 years performing sketch and improv, the Second City is well established as the preeminant stage for comedy. They’re bringing some of their best bits to Waukegan with Laugh Out Loud. This event benefits the Waukegan Schools Foundation. If you don’t want to head down to River North and want to see comedy in a beautiful theater for a good cause, this night can’t be beat.

The direction team has been distributing handbills and hanging posters throughout the far northern suburbs of Chicago.

Second City: Laugh Out Loud Tour will be at the Genesee Theatre for one night only, Friday, April 20. Tickets for this event are currently on sale. For seats and a complete list of upcoming events at the Waukegan theater, please visit geneseetheatre.com.

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater @ Auditorium Theatre

direction — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 22:00:34 +0000

Modern dance is an art form that most people love, they just don’t know it. The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is one of the most successful modern dance companies. Let their upcoming Chicago dates be an introduction to the dance world. They’ll be performing classics as well as new pieces, offering something for the new and initiated.

The direction team has been hitting south side record stores, cafes, restaurats and more, dropping off fliers and hanging posters. We’ve also passed out handbills throughout African American churches on Palm Sunday.

The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater will be at the Auditorium Theatre from April 11 to 15. Tickets for this five night, six show run and more information about the Auditorium Theatre can be found at auditoriumtheatre.org.

Paris Opera Ballet @ Harris Theatre

direction — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 16:00:40 +0000

One of ballets greatest companies is finally making their Chicago debut. The Paris Opera Ballet will be at the Harris Theatre for a week long engagement. Performing in North America for the first time in ten years, the 154-member company will perform “Giselle” and a program of mixed repertoire including “Suite en blanc” by Serge Lifar, Roland Petit’s “L’Arlésienne,” and “Le Boléro” by Maurice Béjart, both performances accompanied by the Grant Park Orchestra.

The direction team has been working hand to hand distro for this unique series of performances. We’ve aready hit performances at the American Ballet Company and will be at Metra commuter stations on April 17, 19, 24 and 26.

The Paris Opera Ballet will be at the Harris Theatre as part of the See The Dance week June 27-30. Tickets and more information about this week of rare performances can be found at harristheaterchicago.org.

We Are Proud to Present… @ Victory Gardens Theater

direction — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 14:55:03 +0000

Coming off its successful run at the 2010 IGNITION Festival run, “We Are Proud to Present…” has returned to the Victory Gardens Theater. A group of ambitious young actors are tackling the subject of the 20th century’s first genocide. Things don’t go as smoothly as they might have liked. This brave and hilarious work wowed audiences a few years ago and they’re back for an encore.

The direction team has been taking out materials for this play throughout the north side of Chicago and on two of our specialty routes, African and Urban Hipster.

“We Are Proud to Present a Presentation About the Herero of Namibia, Formerly Known as South-West Africa, From the German Sudwestafrika, Between the Years 1884-1915″ runs at the Zacek McVay Theater at the Victory Gardens until April 29. Tickets for the play are currently available and can be found at victorygardens.org.

The Improv Play @ DCA Theatre

direction — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 22:45:22 +0000

Written by Randall Colburn and directed by Mitch Golob, “The Improv Play” tells the story of three aspiring improvisers after a fellow troupe member leaves to perform on “Saturday Night Live.” This world premier is definitely a Chicago story. A mixture of improvisation, stand-up and sketch comedy with scripted material, the play is performed by folks that know the story inside and out.

The direction team has been taking out materials for this InFusion Theatre Company production on our theatre specialty route and throughout downtown.

“The Improv Play” will run April 10 to May 20 at the DCA Storefront Theater. More information about three post-show events on April 19, 30 and May 3, as well as tickets, can be found at dcatheater.org.