Remember the Silent Film era? Most people don’t, but for one night, audiences can experience it just as their great-grandparents did. On April 3, Guarneri Hall will host a special screening of The General, Buster Keaton’s 1926 Civil War comedy masterpiece, featuring a live performance of an original score by composer-pianist Stephen Prutsman and members of NEXUS Chamber Music.

The nonprofit Guarneri Hall, a state-of-the-art, custom-built classical music venue in downtown Chicago at 11 E. Adams St., presents another evening of Keaton’s cinematic genius following last season’s successful screening. The performance runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and will be followed by a silent-film-themed reception, allowing audience members to engage directly with the artists. Tickets for the show ($40) are sold out, but a waitlist is available by emailing operations manager Tanya Landau at tlandau@guarnerihall.org.

Widely regarded as Keaton’s greatest work, The General was one of the first films selected for preservation in the National Film Registry. Inspired by a real Civil War incident, the film follows Southern railway engineer Johnnie Gray as he embarks on a daring mission to recover his stolen locomotive—and rescue his fiancée—from Union spies. Keaton’s blend of thrilling action and signature physical comedy has made the film a cornerstone of silent cinema.

Prutsman’s score enhances the film’s humor and dramatic tension, offering audiences a fresh way to experience Keaton’s brilliance. Performing artists include Stephen Prutsman (piano and composer), Steven Copes and Gabriela Lara (violins), Doyle Armbrust (viola), and Lidanys Graterol (cello).

For more information about Guarneri Hall and upcoming events, visit Guarneri Hall’s website.

Parents looking for a fun and interactive way to keep their kids entertained over spring break can head to Water Tower Place for the Hershey Super Sweet Adventure, featuring new activities just in time for the season.

Families can enjoy hands-on games, interactive exhibits and sweet experiences celebrating some of The Hershey Company’s most beloved confections, including Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Hershey’s Kisses Milk Chocolates, Twizzlers Twists and Jolly Rancher candies.

New additions this year promise even more immersive fun for guests of all ages. From larger-than-life candy displays to engaging activities, the event offers a unique way to experience the magic of Hershey.

Tickets & Information:

The Hershey Super Sweet Adventure takes place at Water Tower Place, 835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago. Tickets are available for purchase online in advance and at the event, though early reservations are recommended due to high demand.

Nestled in the heart of Chicago’s Loop, Brando’s Speakeasy offers a unique blend of vintage charm, handcrafted cocktails and one of the city’s best karaoke experiences. This intimate lounge, known for its speakeasy-style ambiance and lively atmosphere, has become a favorite spot for both locals and tourists looking for a fun night out.

Brando’s Speakeasy, located at 343 S. Dearborn St., captures the essence of old-school Chicago with its dim lighting, cozy leather seating and vintage décor. While it’s dressed up like a vintage cocktail lounge, the seven-nights-a-week karaoke doesn’t exactly make it ideal for a first date—unless you’re trying to show off your amazing pipes. The venue’s speakeasy-inspired aesthetic is complemented by an extensive cocktail menu featuring classic and signature drinks. Guests can enjoy expertly mixed libations like the Old Fashioned, Brando’s Manhattan or the signature Purple Rain, all crafted by skilled bartenders who bring a touch of artistry to every pour.

What sets Brando’s apart is its renowned karaoke experience. You’ll have no trouble finding the song you’re looking for among the bar’s catalog of more than 300,000 tracks, and daily drink specials make it easy to get some affordable liquid courage before you test out your rendition of Blondie’s “Call Me” for the crowd. Unlike traditional karaoke bars, Brando’s offers an upscale yet unpretentious setting where patrons can take the stage and belt out their favorite tunes. The diverse song selection, professional sound system and enthusiastic crowd make it a must-visit for karaoke lovers of all skill levels. Whether performing solo or with a group, guests are sure to feel like stars in this lively atmosphere.

In addition to karaoke, Brando’s frequently hosts themed nights and special events, adding to its dynamic appeal. The venue’s central location makes it an ideal destination for a post-work happy hour, a weekend night out or even a spontaneous evening of entertainment.

Brando’s Speakeasy remains a standout in Chicago’s nightlife scene by combining the allure of a speakeasy with the excitement of karaoke. Whether stopping by for a craft cocktail, a memorable performance or simply to soak in the vibrant energy, visitors are guaranteed a night to remember.

For more information, including hours and upcoming events, visit Brando’s Speakeasy’s website or follow them on social media.

Always on the hunt for new music? Buckle up, because I’ve got something truly special for you.

Straight out of Ukraine, the electrifying folk group YAGÓDY is bringing their powerful, hypnotic sound to North America for the first time this spring. With primal percussion, layered vocal harmonies, and immersive, ethno-dramatic performances, this all-female ensemble is not just a band—they’re a cultural force.

The women of YAGÓDY are on a mission: to preserve, revive, and reimagine the rich traditions of Ukrainian folk music. Dressed in stunning, hand-embroidered garments like the iconic Vyshyvanka, their performances are as visually striking as they are sonically unforgettable.

Their sound can be raw and rebellious one moment, heartbreaking and delicate the next. YAGÓDY’s music speaks to the deep roots of their homeland—it’s a celebration of spirit, land, and lineage. Or, as they describe it:

“Songs of wild tribes. The voice of your ancestors. Live energy. A dance with voices. This is how our nature smells. This is how our blood sounds.”

Their self-titled debut album, YAGÓDY (2020), introduced listeners to their unique interpretations of Ukrainian, Bulgarian, and Serbian folk songs. In 2024, they captivated audiences at the Eurovision Songwriting Contest with their original piece “Tsunamia,” placing fifth in Ukraine’s national finals.

Since forming in 2016, YAGÓDY has performed at major festivals across Europe, enchanting crowds in Poland, Germany, and beyond. Now, they’re poised to share their bold, evocative artistry with North American audiences.

The group was founded by actress and vocalist Zoriana Dybovska, who fled Donetsk in 2014 following Russia’s military invasion and resettled in Lviv. There, she united a group of musicians and educators who shared her passion for preserving Ukrainian folk traditions. The name YAGÓDY—Ukrainian for “berries”—was first given to them by a concert announcer and stuck like folklore.

What started as a grassroots collective has blossomed into a globally recognized act known for intense, ritualistic performances and genre-defying interpretations of Eastern European music.

A Burlesque Parody in a Galaxy Far, Far Away…

If you’re a fan of the Star Wars universe, prepare for a night that’s out of this world. The Empire Strips Back is a dazzling burlesque experience that fuses seduction with sci-fi in a way you’ve never seen before.

From jaw-dropping costumes to Hollywood-level stage design, this is a galactic spectacle that’s equal parts hilarious and hypnotic. You’ll see your favorite characters reimagined with a spicy twist—think sultry Stormtroopers, a dangerously dashing Boba Fett, and a lady-like Skywalker ready to awaken the Force within you.

This is burlesque with a twist—and when we say twist, we mean with a slap, tickle, and a whole lot of sass.

With loving attention to detail, side-splitting humor, and just the right amount of risqué, The Empire Strips Back delivers a truly unforgettable intergalactic adventure. Whether you’re a die-hard Jedi or just looking for an unforgettable night out, this show will have you laughing, swooning, and quoting Star Wars like never before.

Catch it now at the Chicago Fine Arts Building—before it jumps to lightspeed after May 4th. May the Force (and the tease) be with you!

The secret to a great Record Store Day isn’t just the exclusive releases — it’s where you spend it. And there’s no better place to drop the needle than Val’s halla Records in Oak Park. This iconic shop has been a vinyl lover’s sanctuary for generations — and for good reason.

From its legendary connection to John Prine, to the quirky Elvis shrine tucked inside, Val’s is more than just a record store — it’s a cultural landmark. Sure, Record Store Day might be what brings you through the door, but once you’re in, ask Shayne or Trevor about any album on the shelf — you’ll walk away with a story, a recommendation, and probably a new favorite artist.

But how did it all begin? Pull up a chair — it’s a good one.

Val’s halla was born on July 26, 1972, just a week after the record chain Val Camilletti managed shut down. Instead of calling it quits, Val leased the same South Blvd location in Oak Park where she’d worked since 1967. With the help of passionate former employees, they brought a dream to life — and the legend of Val’s began.

For the next 40+ years, Val and her loyal crew rode the waves of the ever-changing music industry — from the peak of vinyl, through the CD boom, and the turbulence of the Napster era. No matter what was happening in the world of music, Val’s remained a hub for discovery, nostalgia, and community.

In the late ’90s, a teenager named Shayne Blakeley moved from Michigan to Chicago and started working at Val’s right out of high school. Quickly, he became Val’s right hand — helping steer the store into a new era when the business faced challenges in the early 2000s.

When re-development forced them to move, they found a new home in Oak Park’s Arts District at 239 Harrison Street, surrounded by fellow creatives and small businesses. From 2006 to 2018, Val and Shayne ran the store side by side, continuing to cultivate a space that felt like home for music lovers of all kinds.

In 2016, Val was diagnosed with breast cancer and sadly passed away in July 2018. But Shayne carried on, keeping the spirit of Val’s alive — even when it seemed impossible. By late 2019, as rumors of the store’s closure swirled, a local business partner stepped in, helping Shayne restructure and reimagine the store for the future.

And today? Val’s halla is alive and well. The music plays on. The legacy endures.

So this Record Store Day, make it count. Celebrate at a place where music isn’t just sold — it’s lived. You might come for the exclusives, but you’ll stay for the soul.

Drew Wiegman, a self-taught improvisational cellist and viral TikTok sensation, will return to his hometown for two performances at the James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts at the College of Lake County. The concerts will take place on Saturday, March 29, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 30, at 3 p.m.Wiegman, who plays the cello entirely by ear without formal classical training, has gained recognition for his spontaneous and deeply emotive compositions. His music has drawn the attention of television and classical radio, as well as a global online audience.

Ever felt intimidated walking into an art gallery or thought art just wasn’t for you? That may change this weekend as The Other Art Fair returns to Chicago for its seventh edition.

Presented by Saatchi Art, The Other Art Fair runs March 27-30 at Artifact Events, featuring more than 115 emerging and independent artists. Unlike traditional art fairs, this event allows visitors to meet the artists and purchase artwork directly from them.

The fair is designed to be accessible, fun and inspiring, breaking down barriers and redefining the way people experience art. Alongside a wide range of affordable artwork, the event features immersive installations, live performances and interactive experiences.

Since launching in 2011, The Other Art Fair has worked with more than 3,000 artists from over 20 countries and now hosts 12 fairs annually across the United States, United Kingdom and Australia. It remains the only global art event solely focused on representing independent artists.

Whether you’re an avid collector, a casual browser or simply curious, the fair invites all to explore, connect and experience art in a new way.