As summer begins to bloom, Chicago is set to come alive with a wave of exciting events this June. The Chicago Blues Festival, heralded as one of the largest blues festivals in the world, is poised to take center stage, featuring headliners such as Mavis Staples and Christone “Kingfish” Ingram. Additionally, a special B.B. King Centennial Tribute will honor this legendary artist, featuring performances by Ingram alongside D.K Harrell and Jonathan Ellison. The festivities will unfold from June 5-8 at various locations, including Millennium Park and the Ramova Theatre, with free admission to all attendees. For a complete schedule, music lovers can visit chicagobluesfestival.us for additional details.
Music aficionados should also mark their calendars for the opening of Ravinia’s season, which kicks off with performances from Ann and Nancy Wilson, the renowned sibling rock icons of Heart, on June 6. The following night will showcase the unique talents of Grace Jones and Janelle Monae, with ticket prices ranging from $49 to $180. Ravinia, located at 418 Sheridan Road in Highland Park, promises a diverse lineup for its summer resonance. For more information, the community can check out ravinia.org.
Alison Krauss & Union Station is back with a new album, “Arcadia,” their first release in over a decade. The touring ensemble, which includes notable musicians Jerry Douglas, Ron Block, Barry Bales, and Russell Moore, will take the stage at Chicago Theatre on June 7, with an opening act by Willie Watson at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for this anticipated concert are priced at $75 and above, available exclusively through ticketmaster.com.
Rounding out the musical events, the Grant Park Music Festival will launch its season with a performance of George Gershwin’s iconic “Rhapsody in Blue,” alongside the works of contemporary composer Gabriela Lena Frank and Manuel de Falla. Scheduled for June 11 at 6:30 p.m. at Pritzker Pavilion, this event is also free, allowing the public to enjoy classical music in a beautiful outdoor setting. Comprehensive details can be found at grantparkmusicfestival.com.
The local theatre scene is bursting with talent and creativity this month, starting with “Kimberly Akimbo,” a Tony Award-winning musical by David Lindsay-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori. The production tells the uplifting story of a teenager grappling with family strife and a rare genetic disorder, and will run from June 10-22 at CIBC Theatre, with tickets ranging from $35 to $125. Those interested can visit broadwayinchicago.com for booking information.
Another highlight includes Amy Morton’s return to the Steppenwolf Theatre, where she performs in Noah Diaz’s poignant play “You Will Get Sick.” Reflecting on the journey of one man’s illness and the aspirations of his caretaker, this production runs from June 5 to July 13 and is directed by Audrey Francis. Tickets are priced at $20 and above, available at steppenwolf.org.
“Always…Patsy Cline” continues the celebration of music as a heartfelt tribute to the country star. Featuring Aja Alcazar as Cline and Bri Sudia as her biggest admirer Louise Seger, this engaging production runs from June 11 to August 3 at Drury Lane Theatre, with tickets priced between $75 and $150. More information can be accessed at drurylanetheatre.com.
Court Theatre also showcases Lisa Peterson and Denis O’Hare’s adaptation of Homer’s “The Iliad.” Timothy Edward Kane reprises his role of The Poet in this dramatic retelling of war and human experience, running from June 11 to June 29. Tickets are available for $42 to $90 at courttheatre.org.
In a musical tribute, “That’s What Friends Are For: Gladys, Dionne and Patti” brings the legendary trio of Knight, Warwick, and LaBelle to life. Presented at the Black Ensemble Theater from June 7 to July 27, this vibrant celebration directed by Daryl D. Brooks features tickets priced between $57.50 and $67.50. Tickets and schedules can be viewed at blackensemble.org.
Comedy enthusiasts can enjoy a night of laughs with Emmy-winning actor Jeremy Piven, who is stepping into stand-up comedy at the Vic Theatre on June 6. Both the 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. shows are sold out, but fans can find tickets ranging from $35 to $55 on jamusa.com.
The Joffrey Ballet captivates audiences with Christopher Wheeldon’s interpretation of “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” a performance that intertwines classical dance with a contemporary twist, running from June 5 to June 22 at the Lyric Opera House. Tickets start at $36 and can be found at joffrey.org.
Cerqua Rivera Dance Theatre is set to present its spring performance featuring an array of dynamic pieces, showcasing talent through multiple works including “Lagrimas Negras” and “American Catracho.” Performances are slated for June 6-7 at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts. Tickets range from $39 to $79 and are available at cerquarivera.org.
Chicago Tap Theatre will conclude its season with the world premiere of “For All We Know,” inspired by bell hooks’ work on love. This piece will be showcased from June 5-8 at The Edge Theater, with tickets priced between $35 and $65, found at chicagotaptheatre.com.
The Art Institute of Chicago will host “Raqib Shaw: Paradise Lost” starting from June 7. This immersive exhibition, featuring a grand 21-panel painting, invites visitors into the intricate world of the artist’s imagination. Admission ranges from $14 to $32, and more information can be found at artic.edu.
Film lovers can enjoy a rooftop movie experience this summer with Rooftop Cinema Club, screening beloved classics and new favorites until October 31 atop The Emily Hotel. With tickets ranging from $13 to $31, movie buffs can expect a memorable outdoor cinematic experience; details are available at rooftopcinemaclub.com.
Art, music, and community collide at the 57th Street Art Fair, featuring nearly 200 artists, live music, and activities for children on June 7 and 8. Admission is free, and more information can be found at 57thstreetartfair.org.
Finally, the Gold Coast Art Fair invites attendees to explore more than 200 artists’ work alongside workshops and activities from June 7-8. Tickets are priced at $15 and offer a unique opportunity to appreciate a diverse range of artistic expressions; additional details are available at amdurproductions.com.
For those with a taste for barbecue, Ribfest Chicago beckons on June 6-8 with competitions, music, whiskey tastings, and family activities. Admission is a suggested donation of $10. Full details can be found at ribfest-chicago.com.
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