Based on the 2003 movie “Elf,” this musical version tells the tale of Buddy the Elf, who is really human, as he ventures to New York City from his home at the North Pole to meet his real dad. Comic scenes are aplenty in this show as Buddy’s interactions with family and others often cause mayhem, confusion and all sorts of zaniness.
“Elf The Musical” is filled with energetic dance numbers, catchy songs and fine acting by the ensemble cast.
Starring as Buddy is Jack Ducat, who offers a perfect performance as the naive, loveable elf. Also giving enjoyable performances are Felicia Martis as Jovie, Jeff Brooks as Walter Hobbs, Yara Martin as Emily Hobbs and Camden Kwok as spunky Michael Hobbs.
Among standout musical numbers in the show are “World’s Greatest Dad,” “I’ll Believe in You,” “A Christmas Song,” “The Story of Buddy the Elf” and “Nobody Cares About Santa.”
Catch this stage version of “Elf The Musical.” You’ll be glad you did.
FYI: “Elf The Musical” continues to Dec. 14 at The Auditorium, 50 E. Ida B. Wells Dr., Chicago. Tickets range from $40 to $110. Visit BroadwayInChicago.com.
About Eloise Marie Valadez
Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.
There’s a dynamic theatrical work lighting up the stage of The Goodman Theatre.
“Revolution(s),” the brand new musical by Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine/Audioslave and Zayd Ayers Dohm, is a world premiere production directed by Steve H. Broadnax III. The production continues to Nov. 22.
YouTube courtesy of The Goodman Theatre.
Fans of metal/hip-hop and punk will easily be engrossed in this show. “Revolution(s)”revolves around Hampton Falk-Weems, a soldier and musician, who returns to his South Side Chicago home from Afghanistan and finds a number of problems and strife in the neighborhood which he must navigate around. There’s also strained relationships he must deal with. There’s definitely a war of a different kind going on back home.
The energetic music by Morello and various other artists help move this powerful musical along. The talented cast stars Aaron James McKenzie, Billy Rude, Alysia Velez, Jackie Burns, Jakeim Hart, Michael Ervin Martin and Al’ Jaleel McGhee.
Highlighted musical numbers include “Fight! Smash! Win,” “Keep Going,” “Rise to Power,” “Whatever It Takes,” “The Oath” and “The War Inside.”
FYI: “Revolution(s) continues to Nov. 22 at The Goodman’s Owen Theatre in Chicago. Visit goodmantheatre.org.
About Eloise Marie Valadez
Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.
For more on what to do in Chicago, visit Choose Chicago.
The storyline of “Hell’s Kitchen” revolves around the lives of teen Ali and her mother Jersey who live in New York’s Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood. Their relationship has its ups and downs as Ali experiences the strains and problems of growing up and coming of age while her mother tries to shield her from the heartaches and evils of the outside world. Once Ali finds the world of music and the joy of playing the piano, life becomes different.
“Hell’s Kitchen,” which is loosely based on musician Keys’ life, is directed by Michael Greif, and has a book by Kristoffer Diaz. The musical moves along swiftly and definitely keeps the audience’s attention.The Grammy-winning Keys’ music is woven perfectly throughout the production.
Starring as Ali is Maya Drake, whose vocals feature a dynamic mix of strong and sweet tones. Playing the role of Jersey is Kennedy Caughell, whose voice remains outstanding throughout the production. In the role of piano teacher Miss Liza Jane is Roz White, who also captures the audience’s attention with her beautiful vocals.
Among other strong performers in the show are Desmond Sean Ellington as Davis and JonAvery Worrell as Knuck.
Fans of Keys’ music will enjoy hearing theatrical performances of her hits. Highlighted tunes include “Teenage Love Affair,” “Girl on Fire,” “Fallin,”‘ “If I Ain’t Got You” and “Empire State of Mind.”
Don ‘t hesitate to get a ticket for this show and spend some time in “Hell’s Kitchen.”
FYI: “Hell’s Kitchen” runs to Nov. 30 at The James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St., Chicago. Tickets range from $40 to $149. Visit BroadwayInChicago.com.
Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.
Extended by popular demand, Louisville’s LouGrass Sessions will keep the music flowing through November, celebrating Kentucky’s rich Bluegrass roots tradition. What began as a seasonal series from April to October has struck a chord with fans, prompting additional shows Thursdays through Saturdays. LouGrass blends Bluegrass with Americana, blues, jazz, and more—carrying Kentucky’s legacy forward with a new generation of artists. Free live performances across Louisville’s venues give locals and visitors even more chances to experience authentic sounds in Bourbon City.
From cozy bars to lively hotel lounges, LouGrass brings Kentucky roots music to a variety of venues. Guests can explore the full lineup at lougrassmusic.com.
“The response has been phenomenal,” said Cleo Battle, Louisville Tourism President & CEO. “LouGrass proves just how much visitors and locals crave Kentucky’s roots music. It’s an authentic way to experience the spirit of Bourbon City, and we’re thrilled to keep the music going through November.”
The Last Refuge.
For a schedule of weekly performances, festivals and special events, visit lougrassmusic.com.
While planning a trip to Louisville, guests can book a LouGrass Hotel Packageat one of the six official LouGrass hotels. The hotel package includes:
Two complimentary tickets to Copper & Kings American Brandy Company visitor experience
$25 gift card to Bob Dylan’s The Last Refuge, A High Church of Bourbon in Downtown Louisville
Official LouGrass swag bag filled with LouGrass and Bourbon Country merchandise and keepsakes
Merchandise discount at the Louisville Visitor Center
Additionally, each hotel package booked receives one entry to win two weekend passes to the 2026 Bourbon & Beyond music festival.
Guests are encouraged to download a copy of Louisville Tourism’s annual Visitor Guide to see the city’s top attractions and bourbon distilleries. Visitors also can get additional city attraction, lodging and dining assistance at gotolouisville.com.
It’s not too soon to start making a list and checking it twice for what’s happening in Chicago this holiday season. Here are some suggestions from Choose Chicago.
HOLIDAY MARKETS
The Chicago Christkindlmarket is delighted to announce the return of its cherished holiday tradition for its 29th season at Daley Plaza in Chicago, its 4th year at RiverEdge Park in Aurora, and its return to Gallagher Way in Wrigleyville. The Chicago and Aurora locations will open on November 21, 2025, while Wrigleyville will welcome visitors starting November 23, 2025. All three markets are admission-free, featuring authentic vendors, live entertainment, and special events to create a festive holiday atmosphere.
Château Carbide Winter Garden at The Pendry Chicago (Launching Nov. 20 | 5 pm-12 am) – Château Carbide is launching their rooftop winter haven for another season with an all-new twist you won’t want to miss! Make a reservation for a private lodge and enjoy winter-inspired small bites and seasonal cocktails while taking in the stunning city-wide views of Chicago and all its snowy splendor.
A Christmas Carol returns to the Goodman Theatre from November 15 – December 31, 2025
Merry, Merry Chicago! – December 19-23, 2025, a series of concerts performed by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra
TOURS & ACTIVITIES
Bobby’s Bike HikeHoliday Hike: Season Sampling Food & Walking Tours begin at the end of November and run through Christmas Eve. See the lights of the Magnificent Mile, the ice skating rink and Christmas tree in Millennium Park, enjoy a warm and filling deep dish pizza, experience the German-inspired festivities of Christkindlmarket, and toast to a joyful season over a seasonal beverage! This 3 hour Chicago holiday tour is perfect for families, friends, holiday parties, and anyone looking to celebrate the season in an exciting new way. All food & non-alcoholic beverage samples included in ticket price. (Pricing starts at $74.99.)
Chicago Boat Company’s Hot Tub Boats, returning this winter with their launch in November (exact timeline and hours to come). Departing from Marina City (300 N. State St.), guests can take out a Hot Tub Boat for up to 90 minutes with as many as six guests per boat. They’ll cruise along the Chicago River, taking in iconic skyscraper views and, in December, the city’s festive décor and holiday cheer from river level. Each boat comes equipped with a Bluetooth speaker and is BYOB, with plenty of cooler space and floating cup holders. Hot chocolate, hot apple cider, mulled wine, you name it!
The Christmas Tree Crawl: The Magic of Chicago at the Holidays – Let Inside Chicago Walking Tours take you on an enchanting stroll through the heart of the city at its prettiest time — during the winter holiday season. On this nostalgic and educational tour, we will lead you on a “Christmas treasure hunt” through downtown Chicago in search of the most stunning and impressive Christmas trees and other holiday decorations — and we know where they are! This tour includes not only visits to well-known stops like the Christkindlmarkt and the old Marshall Field’s, but also to little-known stops that contain some of the best holiday decorations downtown. You’ll learn about the origins of some world-famous Christmas characters — some of them from Chicago, some not — as well as the history behind Christmas traditions practiced by people around the world. [November 28 – December 20, 2025; available Thursdays-Saturdays]
We call this tour a “pop-up tour” because it’s offered for a limited time, because we want to show off the city’s beauty at this time of year. You won’t find a boat, a bus, or even a segway where we’re going.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Chicago’s most unique and beloved holiday tradition is here: The Allstate CTA Holiday Fleet. Now in its 33rd year of operation, we are excited to be delivering holiday cheer throughout Chicago’s neighborhoods and welcome you aboard our decked-out and dazzling Allstate CTA Holiday Train and the popular Allstate CTA Holiday Bus!
Christlkindlemarket. Photo courtesy of Choose Chicago.
About Choose Chicago
Choose Chicago is the official sales and marketing organization responsible for promoting Chicago as a global visitor and meetings destination, leveraging the city’s unmatched assets to ensure the economic vitality of the city and its member business community. Follow @choosechicago on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok. For more information, visit choosechicago.com.
Something spooky is definitely invading a prominent stage in Chicago.
It’s “Paranormal Activity” and it’s taking place at The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier through Nov. 2. The North American premiere production, which is an original story, is based on the popular film franchise.
The show, written by Levi Holloway, is directed by Felix Barrett. Spectacular illusions by Chris Fisher star in this production as well.
Audience members who want to be in suspense throughout a theatrical presentation will, no doubt, be at the edge of their seats here. “Paranormal Activity” tells the story of husband and wife James and Lou, who have moved to London from Chicago to pursue a new life and get away from “something” in their past.
There are many fascinating illusions, haunting sounds and other frightening scenes throughout “Paranormal Activity” to keep theatergoers’ attention. All eyes and ears will be focused on the mysterious happenings on stage.
A strong cast helps make this production a winner and one not to be missed. Starring in “Paraniormal Activity” are Cher Alvarez as Lou, Patrick Heusinger as James, Shannon Cochran as Carolanne, Kate Fry as Etheline Cotgrave and Sophie Kaegi in an ensemble role.
After its Chicago run, the play will be performed in Los Angeles, Washington D.C. and San Francisco.
FYI: “Paranormal Activity” runs to Nov. 2 at The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre at Navy Pier. Visit chicagoshakes.com for more information.
For more information about what to do in Chicago, visit Choose Chicago.
About Eloise Marie Valadez
Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.
The Rodgers and Hammerstein gem “The Sound of Music” continues through Nov. 2 at the James M. Nederlander Theatre in Chicago. This national North American tour is being presented by Concord Theatricals NETworks Presentations and Broadway in Chicago.
“The Sound of Music tells the story of the Von Tapp Family singers. It revolves around Maria, who is in “training” to become a nun, and also pursues a job as a governess for Captain Von Trapp’s children. It’s a tale of family togetherness, love and a fondness for music and what music can bring to a home.
The production, which is directed by Jack O’Brien, celebrates the 65th anniversary of the original stage debut of “The Sound of Music.”
Starring as Maria is Cayleigh Capaldi, who exhibits exceptional vocal talents. Also offering strong vocals are Christiane Noll as Mother Abbess, Kevin Earley as Captain Georg Von Trapp and the cast of young singers who star as the Von Trapp children.
When it comes to soundtracks, “The Sound of Music” is a winner. Almost every tune is a favorite of theatergoers. And it’s difficult to keep from singing along during this show.
Among outstanding numbers are “My Favorite Things,” “Maria,” “Climb Every Mountain,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “Edelweiss” and the title tune “The Sound of Music.”
Theater fans will surely want to plan a visit to the theater to enjoy this production.
FYI: “The Sound of Music” continues to Nov. 2 at the James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph, Chicago. Tickets are $40 to $140. Visit broadwayinchicago.com.
A majestic production is gracing the stage in Chicago.
“The Lion King” is currently running through Oct. 19 at Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre. The show is a must-see production and shines on stage with a colorful set, fascinating costumes, creative puppetry elements and a strong cast.
In promotional materials for the show, it’s touted as “the world’s #1 musical” and that’s definitely not hype. “The Lion King” surely draws audience members in with its strong theatrical elements from powerful vocals, colorful sets, a standout soundtrack and more.
“The Lion King” tells the story of the young cub Simba, who after the death of his father Mufasa, must eventually take control of the throne. There are many adventures awaiting Simba as he grows and he must battle his evil uncle Scar on his way to the throne.
This hit production has been touring North America for nearly 25 years and has been capturing theatergoers’ hearts throughout its celebrated run. It originally opened on Broadway on Nov. 13, 1997.
Starring in the current touring production are Peter Hargrave as Scar, David D’Lancy Wilson as Mufasa,, Mukelisiwe Goba as Rafiki, Robert Creighton as Timon, Nick LaMedica as Zazu, Danny Grumich as Pumbaa, Gilbert Domally as Simba and Thembelihle Cele as Nala.
Standout out musical numbers include “Circle of Life,” “Hakuna Matata,” “I Just Can’t Wait To Be King” and “Can You Feel The Love Tonight.”
FYI: “The Lion King” continues to Oct. 19 at Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago. Tickets are $45 to $180. Visit BroadwayInChicago.com.
About Eloise Marie Valadez
Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.
Legendary Hollywood actress Ava Gardner is the subject of a new play at Chicago’s Studebaker Theater in the Fine Arts Building.
“Ava: The Secret Conversations,” starring award-winning actress Elizabeth McGovern, continues to Oct. 12. The show, written by McGovern, whom film and TV fans will know from starring roles in “Downton Abbey,”“Once Upon A Time in America” and “Ordinary People,” sheds a fascinating light on the late film legend.
Elizabeth McGovern and Aaron Costa Ganis are seen in “Ava: The Private Conversations.” Provided photo.
The play is based on interviews Gardner gave to writer Peter Evans for a book that was to be published about her. Although it was initially banned from publication, the book was printed 25 years later.
In the show, audience members are led on a journey through segments of Gardner’s career and her marriages to Mickey Rooney, Frank Sinatra and Artie Shaw as well as her relationship with the eccentric Howard Hughes.
Elizabeth McGovern. Photo provided.
McGovern, who hails from Evanston, Illinois, offers a stellar performance as Gardner in this show, directed by Moritz von Stuelpnagel. Starring as writer Evans is Aaron Costa Ganis. Ganis also portrays Rooney, Sinatra and Shaw. It’s fascinating to watch as he shifts from one character to another.
“Ava: The Secret Conversations” is making its Chicago premiere. It originally played at NY City Center. Don’t miss this interesting look at retro Hollywood and one of its most glamorous stars.
FYI: “Ava: The Secret Conversations” continues to Oct. 12 at The Studebaker Theater in the Fine Arts Building, 410 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. Tickets are $40 to $170. Call 312-753-3210, ext. 102. Visit AvaGardnerPlay.com.
About Eloise Marie Valadez
Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.
“Carmen,” starring choreography by Liam Scarlett, continues to Sept. 28 at The Lyric Opera House in Chicago. Scarlett is also the choreographer of the acclaimed ballet “Frankenstein.”
The story of “Carmen” revolves around a seductive gypsy named Carmen, who causes mayhem in the life of soldier Don Jose, leading to a complicated love triangle, destructive relationships and tragedy.
With the Joffrey Ballet at the helm of this story, this theatrical production soars with skillful and dynamic dance moves. The musical score by Georges Bizet shines as well.
Starring as Carmen in the Joffrey’s opening night production was Victoria Jaiani, who offered a passionate, sultry and engaging performance. Dancers Alberto Velazquez as Don Jose and Dylan Gutierrez, as the bullfighter Escamillo, proved powerful in their roles as they executed energetic leaps, turns and other dynamic dance moves.
Kudos to the entire troupe for its terrific performance throughout the full-length ballet. The Joffrey Ballet never fails to draw audiences in with their adept performances.
FYI: “Carmen,” by The Joffrey Ballet, continues to Sept. 28 at the Lyric Opera House, 20 North Upper Wacker Drive, Chicago. Visit joffrey.org.
About Eloise Marie Valadez
Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.
Top photo: Victoria Jaiani stars in The Joffrey Ballet’s “Carmen.” Photo by Cheryl Mann.
