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21 February 2024 11:49 AM

Chicago musical: UK tour dates announced, with tickets on sale now

The show will visit seven cities across england.

By Brian Leonard

A new UK tour of the ever-popular Chicago music has been announced, with tickets already on sale for shows this winter.

Opening at the Milton Keynes Theatre on 12 October, Chicago will visit a number of locations across England before ending its run at the end of November. It’s due to hit Bradford, Manchester, Newcastle, Dartford, Stoke and Southampton.

Set in the roaring jazz era of the 1920s, Chicago tells the story of housewife and aspiring star Roxie Hart, who ends up in prison after murdering her lover. It features iconic songs ‘All That Jazz’, ‘Cell Block Tango’ and ‘Razzle Dazzle’.

Chicago was originally created by John Kander, Fred Ebb and legendary choreographer Bob Fosse, opening on Broadway in 1975. The musical was made into a movie in 2002, starring the fabulous Renée Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones.

Casting for the UK tour hasn’t yet been announced, though we’re holding out hope for Jinkx Monsoon as Mama, after the Drag Race star stunned audiences on Broadway with the part last year.

Get tickets for Chicago musical UK tour

Tickets for the Chicago musical UK tour are on sale now. You can grab yours by clicking here .

The full UK tour dates are below:

Saturday 12 – Saturday 19 October Milton Keynes Theatre

Monday 21 – Saturday 26 October Alhambra Theatre, Bradford

Monday 28 October – Saturday 2 November Theatre Royal, Newcastle

Monday 4 – Saturday 9 November Palace Theatre, Manchester

Monday 11 – Saturday 16 November Orchard Theatre, Dartford

Tuesday 19 – Saturday 23 November Mayflower Theatre, Southampton

Monday 25 – Saturday 30 November Stoke Regent Theatre

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Chicago - The Musical

• Sat 12 Oct ➙ Sat 19 Oct Milton Keynes Theatre Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 21 Oct ➙ Fri 25 Oct Bradford, Alhambra Theatre Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 28 Oct ➙ Sat 2 Nov Newcastle upon Tyne, Theatre Royal Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 4 Nov ➙ Sat 9 Nov Manchester, Palace Theatre Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 11 Nov ➙ Sat 16 Nov Dartford, Orchard Theatre Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Tue 19 Nov ➙ Sat 23 Nov Southampton, Mayflower Theatre Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 25 Nov ➙ Sat 30 Nov Stoke-on-Trent, Regent Theatre Chicago - The Musical View tickets

January 2025

• Tue 14 Jan ➙ Sat 18 Jan Aberdeen, His Majesty's Theatre Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 20 Jan ➙ Sat 25 Jan Cheltenham, Everyman Theatre Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Tue 28 Jan ➙ Sat 1 Feb Sheffield, Lyceum Theatre Chicago - The Musical View tickets

February 2025

• Tue 4 Feb ➙ Sat 8 Feb Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 10 Feb ➙ Sat 15 Feb Liverpool Empire Theatre Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 24 Feb ➙ Sat 1 Mar New Theatre Oxford Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 3 Mar ➙ Sat 8 Mar Southend-on-Sea, Cliffs Pavilion Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Tue 11 Mar ➙ Sat 15 Mar Dublin, Bord Gáis Energy Theatre Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 17 Mar ➙ Sat 22 Mar Belfast, Grand Opera House Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 31 Mar ➙ Sat 5 Apr Bournemouth Pavilion Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 7 Apr ➙ Sat 12 Apr Nottingham, Theatre Royal and Royal Concert Hall Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 14 Apr ➙ Sat 19 Apr Birmingham, The Alexandra Theatre Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 5 May ➙ Sat 10 May Cardiff, Wales Millennium Centre Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 19 May ➙ Sat 24 May The Bristol Hippodrome Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 9 Jun ➙ Sat 14 Jun London, New Wimbledon Theatre Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 16 Jun ➙ Sat 21 Jun Leicester, Curve Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 23 Jun ➙ Sat 28 Jun Wolverhampton Grand Theatre Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 30 Jun ➙ Sat 5 Jul Hull New Theatre Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 7 Jul ➙ Sat 12 Jul Eastbourne, Congress Theatre Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 14 Jul ➙ Sat 19 Jul Norwich, Theatre Royal Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 28 Jul ➙ Sat 2 Aug Woking, New Victoria Theatre Chicago - The Musical View tickets

August 2025

• Mon 4 Aug ➙ Sat 9 Aug Sunderland Empire Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 11 Aug ➙ Sat 16 Aug Crawley, The Hawth Chicago - The Musical View tickets
• Mon 18 Aug ➙ Sat 23 Aug Glasgow, Kings Theatre Chicago - The Musical View tickets

Chicago announces UK tour

All That Jazz🎶

David Ian for Crossroads Live in association with Barry and Fran Weissler have announced the 2024/2025 UK tour of the multi award-winning musical Chicago. The tour will open at Milton Keynes Theatre on 12th October 2024. (Casting is yet to be announced)

Set amidst the razzle-dazzle decadence of the 1920s, Chicago is the story of Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who murders her on-the-side lover after he threatens to walk out on her. Desperate to avoid conviction, she dupes the public, the media and her rival cellmate, Velma Kelly, by hiring Chicago’s slickest criminal lawyer to transform her malicious crime into a barrage of sensational headlines, the likes of which might just as easily be ripped from today's tabloids.

Created by the musical theatre talents of John Kander, Fred Ebb and legendary choreographer Bob Fosse, Chicago sexy, sassy score includes the show-stopping songs “Razzle Dazzle”, “Cell Block Tango”, and “All That Jazz”. Winner of six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards and a Grammy, Chicago is the longest running American musical in Broadway and West End history.

Since it opened in New York in 1996, Chicago has played in 38 countries worldwide, and been performed in English, Dutch, German, Swedish, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Italian, French, Danish, Japanese and Korean. Worldwide it has been seen by an estimated 34 million people, grossed over $1.7 billion has played over 33,500 performances.

Chicago, which is based on the play by Maurine Dallas Watkins, has a book by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse, music by John Kander and lyrics by Fred Ebb. The 1996 Broadway revival of Chicago was choreographed by Ann Reinking in the style of Bob Fosse, directed by Walter Bobbie, and produced by Barry and Fran Weissler.

Tour dates:

Saturday 12th – saturday 19th October 2024: Milton keynes theatre

Monday 21st – Saturday 26th October 2024: Alhambra theatre, Bradford

Monday 28 October – Saturday 2nd November 2024: Theatre royal, Newcastle

Monday 4th – Saturday 9th November 2024: Palace theatre, Manchester

Monday 11th – Saturday 16th November 2024: Orchard theatre, Dartford

Tuesday 19th – Saturday 23rd November 2024: Mayflower theatre, Southampton

Monday 25th – Saturday 30th November 2024: Stoke regent theatre

For full tour dates and to buy tickets you can visit the Chicago website.

Have a look at more musicals coming this year:

Standing at the sky's edge.

Where: Gillian Lynne Theatre, London When: Closes August 2024 Following their win at the 2023 Olivier Awards , Sheffield Theatre's production of Standing at the Sky's Edge will transfer to the West End in 2024. The musical tells three interweaving stories across time all set in the Park Hill estate in Sheffield alongside the music of Richard Hawley.

Where: Lyric Theatre, London. When: From 10th February 2024 After becoming a smash on Broadway, Hadestown is returning to London for its West End debut. The production was last seen on this side of the Atlantic back in 2018 when it ran at the National Theatre.

Cruel Intentions: The 90's Musical

Where: the Other Palace theatre. When: January 2024 till May 2024 Based on the film of the same name, the show started off in New York then transferred to the Edinburgh Fringe festival with a sold out run. Featuring all the best 90's music!

Everybody's Talking About Jamie

Where: Peacock Theatre. When: 5th February. The smash hit musical is back in the West End. Based on a true story, Jamie New is sixteen and lives on a council estate in Sheffield. Jamie doesn't quite fit in. Jamie is terrified about the future. Jamie is going to be a sensation!

Clueless The Musical

Where: Churchill Theatre Bromley. When: 12th February. 90's Beverly Hill is coming to the UK! Based on the film with the same name. Directed by Sarna Lapine (Sunday in the Park with George), Clueless The Musical features music by the multi-platinum singer-songwriter KT Tunstall, and lyrics by Grammy winner and three-time Tony nominee Glenn Slater (Sister Act The Musical, Tangled).

Bonnie & Clyde

Where: UK and Ireland tour. When: From 22nd February 2024 Following two runs in London, Bonnie & Clyde are hitting the road in 2024 starting with the Curve Theatre in Leicester.

Starter For Ten

Where: Bristol Old Vic, Bristol. When: 29th February to 30th March 2024 Based on the David Nicholls' novel and the HBO/Playtone film adaptation, the musical Starter For Ten will be getting its world premiere in Bristol in 2024. This tale of love, class and growing up in the 1980s is set in Bristol against the backdrop of the legendary British quiz show University Challenge.

MJ The Musical

Where: Prince Edward Theatre, London. When: 6th March 2024 The jukebox musical inspired by the making of Michael Jackson's 1992 Dangerous World tour has been a smash on Broadway and will be crossing the pond in 2024. MJ The Musical will star Tony Award winner Myles Frost in the titular role, having originated it in New York.

Opening Night

Where: Gielgud Theatre. When: 6th March – 27th July. Starring Sheridan Smith this is a new musical based on a theatre company who are preparing to stage a play on Broadway.

Where: Dominion Theatre. When: March 2024. Another musical based on a film the smash-hit musical is back! Starring the Olivier award winner Beverley Knight, our very own Lemar , Alexandra Burke and Ruth Jones the all star cast will be bringing the gospel to the West End!

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

Where: UK tour. When: From 30th April 2024 Based on the books by James Bond author Ian Fleming and its 1968 film adaptation a new production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang will be flying across the UK in 2024.

Kiss Me, Kate

Where: The Barbican. When: 4th June till 14th September 2024. It's a sophisticated, ferociously funny, show within a show – which whisks you into a world of backstage chaos and romantic entanglements as a theatre company attempt to put on a production of Shakespeare's 'The Taming of the Shrew'. The battle of the sexes takes centre stage as former spouses feud, only to find the off-stage antics rival the drama on-stage. Throw in a number of cases of mistaken identity, confused love, gangsters and a spectacular tap routine and you get Kiss Me, Kate.

Burlesque The Musical

Where: Manchester Opera House. When: 13th June. Burlesque the Musical has a book by Steven Antin, with additional material by Kate Wetherhead. The music and lyrics are by Christina Aguilera, Sia, Diane Warren, Todrick Hall & Jess Folley.

Next To Normal

Where: Wyndham's Theatre. When: 18th June. The hit Donmar Wearhouse production of the Broadway musical gets a West End transfer. Directed by Michael Longhurst, this powerful rock musical takes audiences into the minds and hearts of each character, presenting their family's story with love, sympathy and heart.

Where: Savoy Theatre. When: June 2024. Based on the hit film and the musical is transferring from Broadway all the way to the West End ! So get in looser! The musical will follow the film storyline closely with the

Starlight Express

Where: Troubadour Wembley park When: June 2024. The iconic musica l from Andrew Lloyd Webber is coming back to London! The roller-skating fast moving musical will be showing at the Wembley with an extended run due to high demand! The story follows a children's train set coming to life.

Hello Dolly!

Where: London Palladium. When: 6th July. Winner of four Tony Awards and the critically acclaimed Broadway musical is back in the West End. Staring Olivier award and BAFTA Award winning Imelda Staunton. Say Hello Dolly!

Shrek The Musical

Where: Eventim Apollo. When: 19th July. The musical is back in the West End. Based on the hit film series the musical features Antony Lawrence (The Lion King, Mary Poppins, Matilda the Musical) as Shrek, with Strictly Come Dancing star Joanne Clifton (The Addams Family) as Princess Fiona

A Chorus line

Where: Sadler's Wells Theatre. When: July 2024. The smash hit Broadway production Known for its stellar choreography and snappy songs celebrating theatre and the stories behind it.

The Devil wears Prada The Musical

Where: Dominion Theatre. When: October 2024. Yet another musical based on a film! Groundbreaking. Headed by Elton John the plot will follow closely to the film with this musical being in the works since 2017!

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Where: Ambassadors Theatre When: October 2024 The foot-stomping new musical, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button will transfer to the West End's Ambassadors Theatre from Thursday 10th October 2024. The production captured hearts last year with its sold-out Southwark Playhouse run - winning Best Musical Theatre Production at the 2024 Off West End Awards.

Only Fools and Horses The Musical

Where: Eventim Apollo. When: 17th December. Lovely jubbly! The English classic has its own musical and its back! Based on the BBC comedy with the Trotters of Peckham are brought to life once again through an ingenious and hilarious original score.

Where: London (Venue TBC) When: 2024 The new comedy musical about corn that's taking Broadway by storm is set to cross the Atlantic in 2024. While most details are yet to be announced, we know that producer Cameron Mackintosh is set to have Shucked open in one of his West End theatres in 2024.

Bronco Billy The Musical

Where: Charing Cross Theatre. When: Jan 2024. Based on the hit film starring Clint Eastwood the musical follows a group of romantic fast-drawing, trick-riding, disco-dancing Wild West roustabouts and their travelling show, but things take an unexpected turn when Bronco Billy (leader of this rag-tag troupe) meets Antoinette Lilly, a determined Manhattan heiress on the run for her life. Starring Emily Benjamin who appeared as an alternate Sally Bowles in Cabaret.

Just For One Day

Where: The Old Vic. When: 26th January – 30th March. Based on the worlds most famous concert Band Aid this musical tells the story of how this epic concert brought so many people together and how Rock 'n' Roll changed the world. Featuring songs from Queen, U2, The Who, Elton John and many more.

Calendar Girls

Where: The Lowry When: Tuesday 16th to Saturday 20th January. Calendar Girls follows a group of extraordinary women in a small Yorkshire Women's Institute, prompted to create a nude calendar following the death of a much-loved husband, to raise funds for charity.

Musical theatre cover band give 'Defying Gravity' a disco funk makeover

Todrick Hall to join Burlesque the musical

How to listen to Magic at the Musicals

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Rock And Roll Garage

Chicago announce more than 60 new tour dates.

Classic Rock

Chicago is for more than five decades on the road and will be touring again in 2023. The band announced more than 60 new tour dates for the United States and Canada that will happen next May, June, July, August, September, October and November.

The current line-up of the Rock group has the original members Robert Lamm (Keyboardist), Lee Loughnane (Trumpeter) and James Pankow (Trombonist). Walter Parazaider (Saxophone, flute and clarinet) still is a member of the band but he retired from touring in 2017.

Chicago 2023 tour dates

• 9 – Milwaukee, WI – Riverside Theater
• 10 – La Crosse, WI – La Crosse Center
• 12 – Lincoln, NE – Pinewood Bowl Theater
• 13 – Coralville, IA – Xtream Arena
• 16 – Louisville, KY – The Louisville Palace Theatre
• 17 – Nashville, IN – Brown County Music Center
• 19 – New Buffalo, MI – Four Winds Casino Resort / Silver Creek Event Center
• 20 – Welch, MN – Treasure Island Resort & Casino
• 21 – Moorehead, MN – Bluestem Center for the Arts – Bluestem Amphitheater
• 23 – Salina, KS – Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts
• 25 – Ames, IA – Stephens Auditorium – Iowa State Center
• 26 – Kansas City, MO – Starlight Theater
• 27 – Camdenton, MO – Ozarks Amphitheater
• 16 – Evansville, IN – The Old National Events Plaza
• 17 – Springfield, IL – UIS Performing Arts Center
• 18 – Highland Park, IL – Ravinia Festival
• 20 – Toledo, OH – Toledo Zoo Amphitheater
• 21 – Rochester, NY – Kodak Center
• 23 – Westbury, NY – NYCB Theatre at Westbury
• 24 – Farmingville, NY – Catholic Health Amphitheater at Bald Hill
• 25 – New Brunswick, NJ – State Theatre New Jersey
• 27 – National Harbor, MD – The Theater at MGM National Harbor
• 29 – Stamford, CT – The Palace Theatre Stamford
• 30 – Springfield, MA – MGM Springfield
• 1 – Gilford, NH – Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion
• 6 – Cincinnati, OH – PNC Pavilion
• 7 – Traverse City, MI – National Cherry Festival
• 8 – Bay Harbor, MI – Great Lakes Center for the Arts
• 10 – Colorado Springs, CO – Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts
• 11 – Vail, CO – Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater
• 12 – Albuquerque, NM – Kiva Auditorium
• 15 – Tucson, AZ – Linda Ronstadt Music Hall
• 16 – Prescott Valley, AZ – Findlay Toyota Center
• 18 – Phoenix, AZ – Celebrity Theatre
• 19 – Los Angeles, CA – Greek Theatre
• 20 – Costa Mesa, CA – The Pacific Amphitheatre
• 22 – San Diego, CA – Humphreys Concerts by the Bay
• 23 – San Diego, CA – Humphreys Concerts by the Bay
• 25 – Paso Robles, CA – Vina Robles Amphitheatre
• 26 – Lincoln, CA – The Venue at Thunder Valley
• 29 – Saratoga, CA – The Mountain Winery
• 30 – Saratoga, CA – The Mountain Winery
• 1 – Puyallup, WA – Washington State Fair Events Center
• 2 – Toppenish, WA – Legends Casino Event Center
• 3 – Boise, ID – Outlaw Field at the Idaho Botanical Garden
• 14 – Tulsa, OK – River Spirit Casino – Margaritaville
• 15 – Norman, OK – Riverwind Casino
• 16 – Fort Worth, TX – Will Rogers Memorial Center
• 19 – San Antonio, TX – Majestic Theatre
• 20 – Sugar Land, TX – Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land
• 22 – Biloxi, MS – Beau Rivage Theatre
• 23 – Biloxi, MS – Beau Rivage Theatre
• 25 – Franklin, TN – FirstBank Amphitheater
• 26 – Knoxville, TN – Tennessee Theatre
• 28 – Durham, NC – DPAC
• 29 – Columbia, SC – Township Auditorium
• 30 – Atlanta, GA – Cadence Bank Amphitheatre at Chastain Park
• 3 – Daytona Beach, FL – Peabody Auditorium
• 4 – Hollywood, FL – Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
• 6 – Tallahassee, FL – Donald L. Tucker Civic Center
• 7 – Clearwater, FL – The Sound
• 11 – Bethlehem, PA – Wind Creek Event Center

I'm a Brazilian journalist who always loved Classic Rock and Heavy Metal music. That passion inspired me to create Rock and Roll Garage over 6 years ago. Music has always been a part of my life, helping me through tough times and being a support to celebrate the good ones. When I became a journalist, I knew I wanted to write about my passions. After graduating in journalism from the Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, I pursued a postgraduate degree in digital communication at the same institution. The studies and experience in the field helped me improve the website and always bring the best of classic rock to the world! MTB: 0021377/MG

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Chicago tour dates 2024

Chicago is currently touring across 1 country and has 5 upcoming concerts.

Their next tour date is at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville, after that they'll be at Constellation Brands–Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center: CMAC in Canandaigua.

Currently touring across

Upcoming concerts (5) See nearest concert

Ruoff Music Center

Constellation Brands–Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center: CMAC

Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater

PNC Bank Arts Center

Ameris Bank Amphitheatre

Past concerts

Blossom Music Center

Riverside Theatre - WI

State Farm Center

View all past concerts

Recent tour reviews

The show was great. As I had seen them twice within the past 2 years this show I was the best performance. The other was at the Allegheny Casino in Salamanca,Ny and the Molson Theatre in Toronto. Whenever they are near to my hometown I go to their concert.

They made sure that they gave it their all. Non stop songs from

approximately 8:45 till 11:15pm.

The Doobie Brothers started off the double bill show. They are always good as well.

If they are near your town go and see them. You won't be disappointed.

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Whoa! What a show! Chicago play nonstop hits and the instrumental sections are as crisp as ever. I'm mostly a fan of their first four albums and they didn't skimp on that material, but still played quite a bit of their AM Gold from later on haha. New man Jeff Coffey does a great job but the stars are still the rest of the band who have the live energy and passion of a band that just got started, not one that is celebrating 50 years. James Pankow is a beast.

Chicago did NOT disappoint!! How often do we attend a concert with high hopes of a great performance only to walk away let down? Not this time! Chicago gave a stellar performance, belting out hit after hit. It left fans satisfied without regret. The brass sounded as crisp and clean as ever. Robert Lamm, Lee Loughnane, James Pankow, and Walter Parazaider can still rock with the same ferver from 30 years ago!! New lead singer Jeff Coffey did better than adequate keeping the continuity of the hits we grew up singing...and still do. I'm not sure how much longer they will be touring, but I imagine this was an opportunity I may not have again. This group was long overdue in their induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2016). May they continue do what they love, performing for those of us who love and appreciate this incredibly talented group of musicians!

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• Stranger Things: The First Shadow

Chicago returns to the London stage at Phoenix Theatre

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After a hugely successful tours across the UK and internationally, smash-hit American musical Chicago returns to the London stage, starring Martin Kemp as Billy Flynn. Last seen at the Garrick Theatre in 2012, the production returns to the Phoenix Theatre in March 2018, celebrating its 21st anniversary as the longest-running musical on Broadway. Based on Maureen Dallas Watkins' 1926 play of the same name, Chicago is the thrilling tale of 1920's nightclub performers turned murderess'. Dancing for their lives to stay off of Death Row, Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly enlist the help of the smooth-talking Billy Flynn to help them clear their names. Featuring a sizzling score by Kander and Ebb, the musical includes numbers such as "All That Jazz", "Hot Honey Rag" and "Razzle Dazzle", amongst many more well-known show-stoppers. Casting includes Duncan James as Billy Flynn, Mazz Murray as Mama Morton, Alexandra Burke as Roxie and Josefina Gabrielle as Velma. One of the greatest musicals around, this is simply not to be missed!

Denise Van Outen stars as Velma Hart from 24 September 2018.

What the audience said…

Absolutely brilliant! I went to see it with my mum in 2018 and Josefina Gabrielle, Duncan James and Alexandra Burke were fabulous - really, excellent casting choices! The show felt intimate and gave us chills the entire time. Would definitely see it again if possible!

Absolutely brilliant! I went to see it with my mum in 2018 and Josefina Gabrielle, Duncan James and Alexandra Burke were fabulous - really, excellent casting choices! The show felt intimate and gave…

Disappointing. Although the cast themselves where fantastic and I had no idea Caroline Flack was so talented, but there was no set/s - just the orchestra a few chairs and and a few feathers! I expected a large floor to ceiling 2-3 tier jail scene but no just some chairs! Poor value and I am sure there are better shows in London for over £100 per ticket. Travelled by train from the midlands just for the show - returning same day. Wasn’t worth the trouble.

Disappointing. Although the cast themselves where fantastic and I had no idea Caroline Flack was so talented, but there was no set/s - just the orchestra a few chairs and and a few feathers! I…

What a truly amazing and enjoyable performance! Top quality cast who had relentless energy throughout, with an exceptional jazz band and thoroughly impressive and entertaining choreography. Surprisingly funny and interactive too which was a bonus! This is a must-see!

What a truly amazing and enjoyable performance! Top quality cast who had relentless energy throughout, with an exceptional jazz band and thoroughly impressive and entertaining choreography.…

Worst show I have ever seen! Production, awful. Costumes, terrible. So much more could be done with this show. Definatly not worth the £170 cost for 2 tickets!

Incredbile performance but I was SO disappointed at the complete lack of diversity. There wasn't a single non-white cast member and barely even any brunettes. For a production like Chicago this felt almost like a conscious choice and one the director should be ashamed of.

Incredbile performance but I was SO disappointed at the complete lack of diversity. There wasn't a single non-white cast member and barely even any brunettes. For a production like Chicago this felt…

Fabulous show 5***** Duncan James is great as Billy Flynn ,cheeky with a twinkle in his eye and the rest of the cast are brilliant .

Absolutely amazing! Alexandra Burke really gave it her all and was a charasmatic, funny and energetic Roxie. The band were incredible and we really enjoyed them being part of the show and on stage. Vocals were impeccable all round and dancing was unbelievable. Great night out in a gorgeous little theatre.

Absolutely amazing! Alexandra Burke really gave it her all and was a charasmatic, funny and energetic Roxie. The band were incredible and we really enjoyed them being part of the show and on stage.…

Absolutely stunning performances by all.Love the fact that it is a 'simplistic' staging with orchestra on stage .Josephina Gabrielle stands out as Velma and exceptional singer and dancer.Alexandra Burke gave it her all and the multi talented Martin Kemp fantastic as Billy Flynn .In all a wonderful uplifting night and could see again.West End at its best.

Absolutely stunning performances by all.Love the fact that it is a 'simplistic' staging with orchestra on stage .Josephina Gabrielle stands out as Velma and exceptional singer and dancer.Alexandra…

what a birthday treat fantastic show brilliant cast thankyou for making my day

AMAZING - Well worth going to watch, the cast were spectacular, made you feel as though you were a part of it all.

Saw Chicago on July 21st for the 7:30, 19:30 showing and was very pleased. Theater is small and old but I am 5’6 and my husband 6’1 and there was just enough leg room. The cast was energetic and put on a great performance. I had read other reviews that bashed the production but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Maybe my standards are lower but I had no complaints. Orchestra/ band was great.

Saw Chicago on July 21st for the 7:30, 19:30 showing and was very pleased. Theater is small and old but I am 5’6 and my husband 6’1 and there was just enough leg room. The cast was energetic and…

Is there a 0 rating? Chicago – don’t waste your money or time on one of the most amateur productions and a cast that have reached their expiry dates! As South Africans, we do not have many opportunities to go to the theatre to see stage productions, and as part of our holiday, my partner wanted to treat me to a show for my birthday, and paid quite a handsome amount of pounds to see Chicago, in London! Yay, the excitement and build-up was incredible for the evening show at 19:30 on the 16th of July 2018, BUT… DISASTER struck! What a complete disappointment. The singing – off pitch Billy Flynn, you sound even worse than Pierce Brosnan in Mamma Mia, did you actually rehearse the part?; Roxie, your vibrato mutes the actual notes, not bad acting, but where’s your voice, or was it the ‘sound-engineer’…? Mr Sellofane – very missible, the reason why they chose you for this part. Shall I continue? The acting – did the cast have a drink-fest the previous night? There was no gutspa, passion or energy on stage, none whatsoever, like they were doing us a favour and forced themselves to ‘get through it’. The dilapidated theatre – the seats are ruined, worn and oh so uncomfortable! Is this a first world production in a first world country??? NOT! I had the privilege to see the amazingly fabulous and professional South African production (thank you Peter Toerien), and loved it so much that I went a second time – every cent worth it, in fact 100% better than this pathetic excuse of a high school musical! Can the owners of this production: 1. Ensure that cast members are cast properly in future, if you want to continue with this show, and change the theatre already! 2. Refund us! Or at least just cancel this show, it’s ruining the thrill and excitement of Chicago, the musical! Martin PS: thank you to the ‘female’ reporter, Mama Morton and the 3 or 4 dancers that gave it their all!

Is there a 0 rating? Chicago – don’t waste your money or time on one of the most amateur productions and a cast that have reached their expiry dates! As South Africans, we do not have many…

Amazing! Loved this production. Cast absolutely fantastic, music outstanding, well worth a visit. We loved every single moment and thought it was amazing value.

The next time you see a headline asking the question "Why is West End Theatre struggling?", here's the answer. I was unfortunate enough to experience this poor outing of a great musical a few weeks ago. Cuba Gooding Jr wasn't just awful, he was embarrassingly, watch it through your fingers awful. He can't sing, can't dance and has less stage presence than the cardboard in the scenery. He played the part like he was reading from an idiot board and even then managed to fluff the lines at least 5 times to my count. Ruthie Henshall was woefully miscast as Mama and seemed as bored singing and phoning in the lines as I was watching her. I truly feel for the rest of the cast who did their part brilliantly but probably end each performance with backache from all the heavy lifting of these two dead weights. The performance I saw cost me the best part of two hundred quid. I'd have had more fun setting the notes on fire.

The next time you see a headline asking the question "Why is West End Theatre struggling?", here's the answer. I was unfortunate enough to experience this poor outing of a great musical a few weeks…

Had seen the show several times in London back at The Cambridge and The Garrick and I already loved it then. Saw it multiple times on Broadway afterwards. And saw it 3 times at the end of May at The Phoenix. After seeing the show so many times you would think I would be blase but no. This London cast was/is absolutely magnificent. Sarah Soetaert is the best of all the Roxies I have seen. Josefina Gabrielle has now become my favorite Velma. Cuba Gooding Junior was fabulous. Ruthie was missing for the 3 shows I saw but her understudy was spot on. As was Cuba's. Bravo bravo bravo! And I will go back when Martin Kemp is on. Please extend your dates through the end of the year❤

Had seen the show several times in London back at The Cambridge and The Garrick and I already loved it then. Saw it multiple times on Broadway afterwards. And saw it 3 times at the end of May at The…

Really enjoyed Chicago last night - Brilliant, upbeat show, quality dancing and singing. We were in the upper Circle and sometimes a bit hard to hear especially Cuba Gooding Junior who mumbled and to be fair was the least positive bit about the musical - thought he was poor!

Really enjoyed Chicago last night - Brilliant, upbeat show, quality dancing and singing. We were in the upper Circle and sometimes a bit hard to hear especially Cuba Gooding Junior who mumbled and to…

The best show I’ve ever seen. It’s a must to watch!!

This is the third time I’ve seen Chicago - once years ago in London, when Ruthie Henshall played Roxie and more recently in New York. This was by far the best production - the musicians were fabulous. The actors just seemed to tick off each other brilliantly. It was great to see Ruthie come full circle and play mama - that was an added bonus! Although I’m usually sceptical of having a “big name” in a lead role for box office draw, Cuba Gooding Jr was wonderful - he played the Machiavellian lawyer to perfection, with just a the right amount of comic genius! Would recommend!

This is the third time I’ve seen Chicago - once years ago in London, when Ruthie Henshall played Roxie and more recently in New York. This was by far the best production - the musicians were…

Ibought the ticket special to see MR Cuba Gooding JR ,at but he did not perform for the show on 26 of MAY at 3.00 pm,what was a bit dissapointing.

What a great production, I saw Chicago when it played at the Cambridge Theatre years ago and that was a dire production, but this one was brilliant. The ensemble were superb, the orchestra Razzled and Dazzled, Ruthie, Josefina and Sarah are true pros and a delight to watch them perform their art. Cuba relied on his comic timing to get him through, his voice was not strong enough and he only gave glimpses of pizzazz in his dancing which was a shame because he is an excellent actor. If you get the chance go an see this production it is very good.

What a great production, I saw Chicago when it played at the Cambridge Theatre years ago and that was a dire production, but this one was brilliant. The ensemble were superb, the orchestra Razzled and…

Truly brilliant musical. Everyones performance was electric. This is by far the best musical we have seen in a long time.Everyones singing and acting was superb. We would like to thank all those involved in bringing this production to the stage.lina & Joe

Truly brilliant musical. Everyones performance was electric. This is by far the best musical we have seen in a long time.Everyones singing and acting was superb. We would like to thank all those…

An excellent performance, and the cast are truly exceptional! It is a shame that the cast is not more diverse however, with the exception of Cuba Gooding Jr. who is the only person from an ethnic minority background. Especially in such a multiculturally rich city as London, and being set in a 1930s American prison, it would have been nice to see more representation ofthis.

An excellent performance, and the cast are truly exceptional! It is a shame that the cast is not more diverse however, with the exception of Cuba Gooding Jr. who is the only person from an ethnic…

excellent show but a major flaw was the lack of diversity in the cast, Cuba Gooding Jr being the only exception. this is unacceptable for a show set in a circ 1930's Chicago prison playing in London a multi ethnic city. It is time that the issue of diversity on the London stage was addressed.

excellent show but a major flaw was the lack of diversity in the cast, Cuba Gooding Jr being the only exception. this is unacceptable for a show set in a circ 1930's Chicago prison playing in London a…

Fantastic show. The timing of the dance was amazing, the characters had an amazing charisma. Great to see Cuba Gooding Jr. An amazing show guys. You did a great job. We thank you very my for the entertainment.

Fantastic show. The timing of the dance was amazing, the characters had an amazing charisma. Great to see Cuba Gooding Jr. An amazing show guys. You did a great job. We thank you very my for the…

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Classic rockers chicago have over 60 concerts in 2023. get tickets now.

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We have a soft spot for bands named after places.

There’s classic rockers America , Boston and Kansas , country stalwarts Alabama and indie veterans Phoenix .

You can’t forget the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Chicago though.

The band that brought the world love ballads like “If You Leave Me Now,” “You’re The Inspiration” and “Hard To Say I’m Sorry” as well as FM radio staples “25 or 6 to 4,” “Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is” and “Saturday In The Park” will bring their classics to venues all over North America this year.

That includes quite a few stops in the Big Apple and Garden State.

On April 15, Chicago will play Atlantic City’s Etess Arena at Hard Rock Hotel and Casino . Following that big night, the group will perform at Staten Island’s St. George Theatre on April 16, Morristown, NJ’s Mayo Performing Arts Center on April 18 and April 19 and Verona, NY’s Turning Stone Resort and Casino Event Center on April 22.

Then, two months later they return to the Northeast for gigs at Rochester, NY’s Kodak Center on June 21, Westbury, NY’s NYCB Theatre on June 23, Farmingville, NY’s Amphitheater at Bald Hill on June 24 and New Brunswick’s State Theatre on June 25 .

And we’re just getting started. The band has over 60 concerts scheduled this year .

Not bad for a band that’s been touring since 1967.

Best of all, some tickets are going for as low as $29 before fees on Vivid Seats.

Want to see Chicago live?

Here’s everything you need to know about how you can make that happen this year.

All prices were found at the time of publication and are subject to fluctuation.

Chicago 2023 tour schedule

The self-described “rock and roll band with horns” will first fulfill the final dates of their Las Vegas residency at the Venetian Theater from Feb. 24 through March 11.

Soon after that, they’ll hit the road for huge concerts in Baltimore on April 21, Milwaukee on May 9, Kansas City on May 26, Cincinnati on July 6 and Phoenix on Aug. 18.

As of now, the final show booked for Chicago in 2023 will take place at Boise’s Idaho Botanical Garden on Sept. 3.

A complete calendar including all tour dates, venues, show start times and links to buy tickets can be found here .

Chicago new music

56 years deep into their storied career, Chicago is still creating.

In July 2022, the band featuring original members Robert Lamm (keyboard, vocals), Lee Loughnane (trumpet, flugelhorn, backing vocals), James Pankow (trombone, backing vocals), Walter Parazaider (saxophones, flute, clarinet, backing vocals) and new lead vocalist Neil Donell released their 26th studio album “Born For This Moment.”

Comprised of 14 songs, the record is a jazzy throwback to the band’s signature, lively sound.

And for our money, “Our New York Time” is a standout track that wouldn’t be out of place on one of the group’s classic ’60s and ’70s albums.

If you want to hear the horn-heavy record for yourself, you can find it here .

Chicago set list

Chicago closed their 2022 tour in November and appears to have had a fairly standard set list at each show.

Still, they don’t phone it in — the band regularly plays 25+ songs when they perform.

While we can’t predict what you’ll hear when you see the band live in 2023, here’s what they played live last year courtesy of Set List FM .

01.) “Introduction” 02.) “Dialogue (Part I & II)” 03.) “Questions 67 & 68” 04.) “Call on Me” 05.) “Wake Up Sunshine” 06.) “(I’ve Been) Searchin’ So Long” 07.) “Mongonucleosis” 08.) “If This Is Goodbye” 09.) “If You Leave Me Now” 10.) “Make Me Smile” 11.) “So Much to Say, So Much to Give” 12.) “Anxiety’s Moment” 13.) “West Virginia Fantasies” 14.) “Colour My World” 15.) “To Be Free” 16.) “Now More Than Ever” 17.) “Alive Again” 18.) “Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?” 19.) “Old Days” 20.) “Hard Habit to Break” 21.) “You’re the Inspiration” 22.) “Beginnings” 23.) “I’m a Man” (The Spencer Davis Group cover) (With percussion duet) 24.) “Just You ‘n’ Me” 25.) “Hard to Say I’m Sorry / Get Away” 26.) “Saturday in the Park” 27.) “Feelin’ Stronger Every Day”

28.) “Free” 29.) “25 or 6 to 4”

For those who would like to see what Chicago played way back when they were The Chicago Transit Authority in the late 60s before they shortened their name to Chicago, you can find all set lists from their history dating back to 1967 here .

Classic rockers on tour in 2023

Fans of pre-music video era rock and roll, we come bearing good news.

Many of the most iconic acts from before MTV was a thing are bringing their hits to venues all over North America this year.

Here are just five of our favorite classic rockers you won’t want to miss live these next few months when they come to a city near you.

•  Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band

•  Ringo Starr

•  Billy Joel with Stevie Nicks

•  Dead and Company featuring John Mayer

•  Lynyrd Skynyrd with ZZ Top

Need to see who else is out and about? Check out our list of the 22 biggest classic rock acts on tour in 2023 here .

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Chicago at Ravinia

There is no Fan Club Pre-Sale for this event.

Chicago is coming to Ravinia in Highland Park, IL on June 18th, 2023.

This year marks Chicago’s 56th consecutive year of touring, our setlist will include timeless fan-favorites that span multiple decades and are beloved by fans of all ages!

Chicago is one of the longest-running and best-selling groups of all time and the highest charting American band in Billboard’s Hot 100 All-Time Top Artists. The first American band to ever chart albums in Billboard’s Pop Top 40 in five consecutive decades, Chicago has earned an impressive 47 gold and platinum awards throughout their distinguished career. In 2020 Chicago was awarded a Grammy for the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Recording Academy.

Chicago is an American rock band formed in 1967 in Chicago, Illinois. They have recorded 38 albums, sold over 100,000,000 records and are one of the longest-running and best-selling music groups of all time.

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Performing Hit After Hit, Chicago Is Still Chicago: Concert Review

And yet Chicago , the rock and brass band known for its revolving door of sidemen, still makes the cut because Robert Lamm, the original lead singer and primary songwriter on their early albums, is still there, as are trombonist James Pankow and trumpeter Lee Loughnane, the heart of Chicago’s signature horn section. (Guitarist Terry Kath, who in the band’s original lineup shared lead vocal duties with Lamm and bassist Peter Cetera in a baritone virtually indistinguishable from Lamm’s, accidentally shot himself in the head in January 1978. Chicago considered breaking up, but instead plowed on with a succession of guitarists.)

James Pankow, with Neil Donell in the foreground (Photo by Thomas K. Arnold; used with permision)

With Lamm, Pankow and Loughnane still on board, Chicago is still Chicago. The early stuff is where it’s at. I lost interest in the band after the third or fourth album, when Cetera, a tenor, took over most of the lead vocals and the band took a turn toward pop schmaltz with such hits as “Baby What a Big Surprise,” “If You Leave Me Now” and the dreadful “Old Days.” (Cetera left the band in 1985 and was replaced by Jason Scheff, who remained with the band for 31 years.)

Chicago’s sold-out Aug. 23, 2023, concert at Humphrey’s in San Diego, an outdoor venue overlooking a gorgeous marina on San Diego Bay, consisted, in true legacy-band style, of a veritable hit parade of songs most in the audience grew up with.

Related: Our Album Rewind of the LP that started it all

And hearing Lamm, a keyboard strapped around his neck, belting out such early Chicago favorites as “Make Me Smile,” “Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is” and “25 or 6 to 4,” their first Top 5 hit, while Pankow and Loughnane blew their hearts out on their respective horns, took me back to my own high school days. Chicago may not have been among the bands the cool kids listened to (those honors belonged to Jethro Tull, Led Zeppelin and Uriah Heep), but they sure had a lot of songs the rest of us loved and sang along with—in the privacy of our own rooms, of course—every time they came on the FM radio we all listened to after school.

The three originals with drummer Walfredo Reyes Jr. (Photo by Thomas K. Arnold; used with permission)

The flow of music was carefully curated by Lamm and his two fellow original members, who are said to run the band with an iron hand and make all decisions together. In a July 2022 interview with Rock Cellar, Lamm said, “There are only three members who are calling the shots. The rest of the band are great guys, contracted players, top-notch guys.”

One of those “top-notch guys” is Neil Donell, who since 2018 has been singing tenor as a replacement for Cetera, Scheff and, briefly, Jeff Coffey.

Chicago’s Humphrey’s concert, the final show in a two-night stand, lasted nearly two hours, including a 20-minute intermission. The repertoire consisted almost exclusively of hits, in true legacy band fashion. Other early tunes include “Feeling Stronger Every Day,” “Saturday in the Park” and “Questions 67 and 68,” along with Cetera-era ballads such as “Just You ‘n’ Me,” “If You Leave Me Now” and “Hard to Say I’m Sorry.”

Watch them perform a favorite earlier this year

It was a smooth, polished show, but you know what? It worked. Many classic rock bands intersperse their hits with new material that often gets polite, almost patient applause. They keep trying to replicate the grandeur of their early days, but more often than not they fail. Chicago didn’t even try.

But that’s all right.

Watch Chicago perform “25 or 6 to 5” live in 2023

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10 Comments so far

Two quibbles with this review of one of the greatest bands of all time. Terry Kath’s voice sounded nothing like that of Robert Lamm. Due to his soulful vocals, Kath sang hits like Colour My World and Now That You’ve Gone. Also, James Pankow wrote Old Days and Peter Cetera sang the lead. Thanks for the review!

“Sing a Mean Tune” is exactly correct. Kath (a baritone) and Lamm (a tenor) sounded nothing alike. I’ll bet the author was thinking of Lamm and Peter Cetera. Those two had pretty similar voices.

Thanks for the comment, but I respectfully disgree. “Realizing the need for both a tenor to complement baritones Lamm and Kath … local tenor and bassist Peter Cetera was invited to join the Big Thing in late 1967.” This, from liner notes to the Chicago boxed set, cited in Wikipedia., Also, I never said Cetera wrote “Old Days”; I merely said he sang lead, which he did.

LOVE CHICAGO! Only the Beginning came out and I was hooked. It became THE song of my first serious relationship and every time I hear it, I get choked up. Have seen them play so many times – GREAT GROUP❣️

A band that records new material and plays none of it live is basically a nostalgia act tribute band. Old Days was a big hit. This band has zero in common with the original lineup or the lineup that existed from 1985 to about 2010. As they lost Cetera and then fired people like Danny Seraphine and Bill Champlin and Jason Scheff they became just replacements of replacements of replacements other than the three originals. Learn the history of a band before commenting.

Now a pale shadow of the original band, settling for MOR.

We just saw Chicago Performing in Tulsa six nights ago. I was shocked that Pankow was no longer with the group! The trombonist that replaced him was fabulous, but Pankow was my favorite original founding member. Does anyone know when he left the group and what happened? Did he just get tired of the traveling, or health reasons or what? The video that was playing in the background, during their entire 2 hr. show behind the band on the stage, was silly & distracting – bunch of actors/models playing & hanging out in the large park in Chicago and guys and gals holding hands and walking around, it was like a commercial. Weird. It was like they were promoting the city of Chicago, old and new, instead of Chicago, the band and their long & successful history. Original vintage videos of the band in the old days, like in their documentaries, like America currently does when they tour, would’ve been so much better. However, the music was fabulous. But I was a little surprised & upset that they never even mentioned any of the former members, especially like Pankow who must have just left the group! Everything online says he is still with the group – just like your article here reads. Thank you to anyone who can help me with this.

They should hang it up. Too many bands running around with revolving door personnel holding on for whatever money and notoriety is left.

Pankow has not left! Old days is not dreadful! Peter and Lamm sound nothing alike nor does Lamm and Kath! I’m tired of Chicago being underated and the so called cooler bands being overrated! I like Zepp but they had alot of shit music on those albums!

That’s Eric Baines in the foreground, not Neil Donnell. Eric plays bass and vocals, been with Chicago for a couple years. Used to play bass and vocals for Dwight Yokum for a few years. Excellent singer and musician. He’s my nephew so I am biased.

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Chicago Blues UK Invasion Incoming…

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Chicago blues stars Oscar Wilson, Jimi Primetime Smith and Bob Corritore hit these shores in November 2023 for a five-date tour – promoted by Jersey-based internationally respected blues harmonica artist Giles Robson, who we hear just might pop up on stage to guest with the terrific trio.

The three Chicago blues musicians have serious musical pedigrees: Southside Chicago-born Oscar Wilson is the lead singer of the Alligator Records artists “The Cashbox Kings”.

Fellow Chicagoan, Westside-born Jimi “Primetime” Smith is the son of blues legend Jimmy Reed’s one time drummer, songwriter and manager Johnnie Mae Dunston.

Jimi’s 2023 album “The World In A Jug” features legendary Chicago-born Bob Corritore, the fabled blues harmonica ace, record producer and owner of Phoenix’s hot venue The Rhythm Room is tearing up the blues world with much critical acclaim and high charting radio play.

Who’s who?

Jimi “Primetime” Smith

“Plays guitar that stings behind his rich vocals”: Blues Roadhouse magazine.

Jimi “Prime Time” Smith was born in Chicago in 1959 His mother, Johnnie Mae Dunson aka; The Big Boss Lady,” worked alongside blues legend Jimmy Reed, as his song writer, drummer and manager.

Jimi began playing guitar at 12 under the teachings of Jimmy Reed, Hubert Sumlin and Eddie Taylor, and spent his teenage years playing around the blues clubs of Chicago with the likes of Big Walter Horton, Floyd Jones, Playboy Vinson, Sunnyland slim, Jimmy Johnson, Queen Sylvia, Playboy Benson, Eddie Taylor, Fenton Robertson and many more Chicagoland blues legends.

After decades of success with bands such as R-Section, Lynwood Slim and The Shuffles, Big Walter Smith and The Groove Merchants, True Blue, and Jimi Prime Time Smith and the Primetime Players, 2023’s “The World In A Jug” Album [with Bob Corritore] has heaped attention on Jimi.

Oscar Wilson 

“Huge, emotive vocals”: Forbes Magazine

Blues with a feeling is something that Wilson has known about from an up-close-and-personal perspective since he was a young child, growing up on the south side of Chicago on 43rd Street in a six-room apartment split by two families.

His mother knew a lot of bluesmen including Junior Wells, Big Smokey Smothers, Elmore James, Little Mack Simmons and Honeyboy Edwards all used to come their house on Friday night for ‘fish fries’ and they’d all sit there and play/sing.

Now the highly acclaimed frontman of The Cashbox Kings, whose also the albums have showcased Oscar’s knack for powerful and humorous song-writing.

Bob Corritore 

“ Corritore is a master of the Chicago sound and his lead and backup harp [harmonica] work here add tons of conviction and soul”: Rock And Blues Muse USA

Born in 1956 in Chicago, Bob cut his teeth sitting in on Maxwell Street with John Henry Davis and others, until old enough to attend blues clubs.

He hung around great harmonica players such as Big Walter Horton, Little Mack Simmons, Louis Myers, Junior Wells, Big John Wrencher and Carey Bell. He would regularly see Howlin’ Wolf, Muddy Waters, Billy Boy Arnold, Sunnyland Slim and other blues legends in action.

In many cases he became personal friends with these blues veterans. Corritore worked with Tail Dragger, Big Moose Walker, Willie Buck, Louis and Dave Myers in the late 70s and early 80s.

He produced his first recordings during that time, taking unheralded harmonica greats such as Little Willie Anderson and Big Leon Brooks into the studio to produce their now classic debut albums.

Now owner of the Rhythm Room in Phoenix and the producer of a huge catalogue of powerful albums of authentic blues with a huge array of blues giants, Bob is considered one of the most important pillars of the USA and international blues scenes.

The Chicago Blues Trio – UK Tour dates:

Bob Corritore and Giles Robson by Joanna Szubzda.

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The Logan Square Arts Festival features an eclectic mix of local and touring talent

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The Logan Square Arts Festival has evolved significantly since its founding in 2009 as the Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival . It now occupies the intersection by the Illinois Centennial Monument with vendors, food trucks, and two stages showcasing local and touring up-and-comers in a variety of genres. This year’s music lineup is pretty sweet. On Friday evening, Asheville-based alt-southern-rockers MJ Linderman & the Wind (you can get a taste of their rich live sound on last year’s Live and Loose! ) share the bill on the Monument Stage with rising Chicago R&B star Khaliyah X and eclectic new-folk singer-songwriter Hannah Frances. Competition from the Milwaukee Stage will be fierce, though, with sets from Indianapolis dream-rock quintet Wishy and Minneapolis grunge-pop group Gully Boys (who are actually girls).

And Friday is just an appetizer. Saturday and Sunday provide a full slate of music, with two dozen artists to overload your senses. On Saturday, wonkishly named local posthardcore powerhouse Ira Glass , smoldering Chicago-by-way-of-Mexico City rockers Así Así , and local ambient-folk singer-songwriter Oyeme are among the highlights. 

Brooklyn singer-songwriter Binki—whose second EP, 2023’s Antennae , simmers with funky blends of hip-hop and indie rock—closes out the Monument Stage on Sunday with a set timed not to compete with the Milwaukee Stage headliner, Los Angeles indie-punk group Phony. Sunday also features Las Vegas groove-metal band Hemlock and several Chicago acts, including horn-driven fusion group New Nostalgia and dreamy bedroom-pop artist Warm Human. For a glimpse of future stars in action, look no further than the Intonation All-Stars, a youth ensemble composed of students from the Intonation Institute.

This lively, diverse bill suggests that the future of summer outdoor music in Chicago lies in neighborhood-friendly fests filled with strong local talent and touring stars on the rise, not bloated extravaganzas that leave behind litter and resentments. The Logan Square Arts Festival is searching for a new location, because the construction that just began on the redesigned Logan Square traffic circle isn’t supposed to end till summer 2026. Increasing insurance and security costs are already putting the pinch on the event’s organizers, so think twice about brushing off that suggested donation—neighborhood support is vital to neighborhood-friendly fests.

Logan Square Arts Festival day one Monument Stage: Hannah Frances (5:30 PM), Khaliyah X (7 PM), MJ Lenderman & the Wind (9 PM). Milwaukee Stage: Gully Boys (6:15 PM), Wishy (8 PM). Fri 6/28, 5–10 PM, Illinois Centennial Monument , intersection of Logan, Kedzie, and Milwaukee, $10 suggested donation, free, all ages Logan Square Arts Festival day two Monument Stage: Oyeme (12:45 PM), Airiel (2:15 PM), Chillona (3:45 PM), Ira Glass (5:15 PM), Precocious Neophyte (7 PM), McKinley Dixon (9 PM). Milwaukee Stage: Plum (noon), Así Así (1:30 PM), Footballhead (3 PM), Dari Bay (4:30 PM), Packs (6 PM), Salami Rose Joe Louis (8 PM). Sat 6/29, noon–10 PM, Illinois Centennial Monument , intersection of Logan, Kedzie, and Milwaukee, $10 suggested donation, free, all ages Logan Square Arts Festival day three Monument Stage: New Nostalgia (12:45 PM), Adelaide (2:15 PM), Woes (3:45 PM), Hemlock (5:15 PM), Flooding (7 PM), Binki (9 PM). Milwaukee Stage: Samuel Aaron (noon), Intonation All-Stars (1:30 PM), Warm Human (3 PM), BSA Gold (4:30 PM), Stuck (6 PM), Phony (8 PM). Sun 6/30, noon–10 PM, Illinois Centennial Monument , intersection of Logan, Kedzie, and Milwaukee, $10 suggested donation, free, all ages

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Tennis stars Ben Shelton, Frances Tiafoe, Sebastian Korda to skip 2024 Paris Olympics

Taylor Fritz is in. Ben Shelton is out. Tommy Paul is in. Frances Tiafoe and Sebastian Korda are out.

The Olympic tennis tournament scheduled for late July has been the subject of plenty of consternation among the top American men’s players these past months, with several athletes wrestling with the idea of taking a pass.

It became official Thursday, with the names of several of the best and best-known American players deciding to skip Paris, including both Shelton and Tiafoe, arguably the two biggest stars on the men’s side and America’s third- and fifth-ranked players.

Now playing in Paris 🎾 Your Paris 2024 men's U.S. Olympic Tennis Team. #MTUSA | #ParisOlympics pic.twitter.com/GHt8fddRiq — Team USA (@TeamUSA) June 20, 2024

In addition to Fritz and Paul, Chris Eubanks, a quarterfinalist at Wimbledon last year who is currently ranked No. 44, and Marcos Giron, No. 53 in the rankings, will play singles for the U.S. Rajeev Ram and Austin Krajicek will play doubles.

The players who are skipping Paris — notably Tiafoe, Shelton and Korda — have all cited versions of the same reasons as other players who have recently announced they will not play the event, including Aryna Sabalenka and Ons Jabeur : The tournament will take place on the red clay of Roland Garros. That will force players to shift from the grass of Wimbledon back to the red clay where they competed during April, May and part of June, and then onto the hard courts of the North American swing in August.

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That is an awkward combination.

Also, Tiafoe and Shelton have never had much success on Europe’s red clay and prefer to focus on the hard courts where they have produced their best results. The Olympic tournament also conflicts with Tiafoe’s hometown Citi Open in Washington, D.C.

Finally, with the Olympic tournament taking place in Los Angeles in 2028, the players are banking on still being able to make the team in four years.

On the women’s side, all of the top Americans have decided to play. That includes Coco Gauff, Jessica Pegula, Danielle Collins and Emma Navarro. Desirae Krawczyk will pair with Collins to play doubles.

Required reading

• Andy Murray could miss Paris Olympics – raising prospect of Wimbledon retirement
• Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz to play Olympics tennis doubles together for Spain
• Red, white and blue jeans: Team USA reveals Paris Olympics opening and closing ceremony outfits

(Photo: Daniel Kopatsch / Getty Images)

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Matthew Futterman is an award-winning veteran sports journalist and the author of two books, “Running to the Edge: A Band of Misfits and the Guru Who Unlocked the Secrets of Speed” and “Players: How Sports Became a Business.”Before coming to The Athletic in 2023, he worked for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Star-Ledger of New Jersey and The Philadelphia Inquirer. He is currently writing a book about tennis, "The Cruelest Game: Agony, Ecstasy and Near Death Experiences on the Pro Tennis Tour," to be published by Doubleday in 2026. Follow Matthew on Twitter @ mattfutterman