March is Women's History Month

"Women around the world are capable of anything they set their minds to. Sometimes we just need a little inspiration from others."

-Women for Women International

Downtown Oak Park presents Jazz Thaw

Saturday, March 9

1 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Jazz Brunch

Sunday, March 10

11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Mason Jiller - Encore! by Little Gem /187 N Marion St

Erik Skov Duo - Crepas Culichi / 1101 Lake St

Aimee Gwen Duo - Léa French Cafe / 106 N Marion St

Click here for full schedule

The Oak Park Arts District presents Women Owned Works

Saturday, March 16, 2024 from 11am- 4pm! (note: hours vary by business)

Join them in the Oak Park Arts District for their annual WOW! Women Owned Works event. Show your support for all of the unique, women-owned businesses on Harrison Street. Follow #shoponharrisonstreet in your social media. Look for bright yellow decorations inside & outside of participating businesses.

MOMENTA’s presents Sweet Dreams, a whimsical ballet created and directred by Sarah Najera. Young dancers fall asleep and are magically transported to a Candyland Dreamworld filled with Cotton Candy Clouds, Cadbury Bunnies, Ice Cream Floats, Spun Sugar Swans and more! Choreography by Tatiana Castañeda, Mei-kuang Chen, Teresa Deziel, and Gina Sigismondi.

Matinee Performances at 3pm

General Seating - Doors open at 2:30pm

March 9 & 10, 16 & 17

Get tickets here.

Momenta presents Facets of Light

Facets of Light showcases a collection of new works from Chicago-area professional choreographers who have been commissioned to create dances that explore the concept of light. The evening performance will also include solos performed by each of their graduating seniors. 

Evening Performances at 7:30pm

General Seating - Doors open at 7pm

March 9 & 10, 16 & 17

Get tickets here.

City Voices presents From Darkness to Light

Saturday, March 16, 2024 at 7:30pm

First United Church of Oak Park

848 Lake Street, Oak Park

$30 general admission; $25 seniors; $15 students

More info here.

FOREST PARK THEATRE READING SERIES

Forest Park Theatre’s Reading Series 2023 - 2024: Plays by Women is a chance to discover six exceptional plays by American and British playwrights. Their readings are rehearsed performances read by professional actors without a set or costumes – just words, ideas and passion. 

Reading Series 2023 - 2024: Plays by Women gives you – the community of Forest Park and beyond – an opportunity to hear plays they hope to produce in the coming years, and to dialogue with them as they explore what a theatre in our community should be. Join them!

All performances are from 7:00 – 9:00 pm at the Forest Park American Legion - 500 Circle Ave.  Doors open at 6:30 pm. There will be a cash bar as well as snacks for sale. 

Tickets - Available online or at the door. General admission $20, FPAA Members $15.

Performances March 7th & 10th - Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte, adapted by Polly Teale

Fitzgerald's presents Song of the Month Club w/ GERALD DOWD Featuring Scott Tipping 7:00pm. Free. More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents alt-classic-neo-traditionalist-honkabilly In The Sidebar w/ THE COUNTRY DOCTORS 7:00pm. Free. More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents PETER CASE Returns to FITZGERALDS! w/ Special Guest TERRY WHITE 8:00pm. $20. More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents Pachanka Music Culture presents: JESSE GARCIA 9:00pm. Free. More info here.

Robert's Westside presents Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears 6:30pm. Advance General Admission: *$22 + Service Fees*

Day Of Show General Admission: *$25 + Service Fees

More info here.

Comedy Plex presents Top Shelf Comedy

8:00pm - 9:30pm $10

Top Shelf Comedy features comics you've seen on ABC, NBC, HBO, Comedy Central, and more. Every week will feature a new, hilarious line-up. 

You never know who might stop in.

Scheduled to perform:

Nina Kern

Ray Wisbrock

More info here.

1128 Lake St

Lower Level

Oak Park IL 60301

One Voice for Arts presents Showcase and Reception

5pm

First United Church of Oak Park

848 Lake Street

Oak Park, IL 60302

Oak Park River Forest High School presents MEAN GIRLS (Musical) March 8, & 9 | 7 p.m.

By Tina Fey, Jeff Richmond, and Nell Benjamin

Based on the Paramount Pictures film Mean Girls Directed by Michelle Bayer

Tickets: $10 Adults | $8 Seniors/Students

Get tickets here.

Bellissima Opera presents International Women’s Day Concert

7-9pm

Bellissima’s IWD 2024 Concert features an award-winning female roster showcasing works of women in the arts. Purchase tickets here.

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

611 Randolph St, Oak Park, IL 60302

Wonder Works Children's Museum presents Molly Morrell and her Ukulele

11:00am

Join them on Friday, March 8 this month for an interactive musical activity with Molly Morrell and her ukulele at 11:00 during their special programming time! Molly brings so much joy to the museum with her instrument.

Comedy Plex presents Jeff Scheen

8:00pm - 9:30pm $25

March 8th & 9th

8pm March 8th

7pm & 9:15pm March 9th

More info here.

1128 Lake St

Lower Level

Oak Park IL 60301

Park District of Oak Park presents Piet Mondrian

Most fine art students learn through copying the masters. Join this club on Friday nights where they focus on 1 image by a famous artist and use tricks and techniques to create your very own version. 6:00pm-8:00pm. Age 10+ $22.00 - $27.00 Register here.

Robert's Westside presents The Transference EP Release Show 6:30pm. General Admission: *$12 + Service Fees*

Reserved Seating: $15 *+ Service Fees (Sold in groups of 4 – 6, General Admission included)*

More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents LILLY HIATT Returns to FITZGERALDS NIGHTCLUB 8:30pm. . More info here.

Saturday, March 9th

Fever presents Candlelight: The Best of Amy Winehouse

Oak Park Arts Center

6:30 & 8:45pm

Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Chicago. Get your tickets now to discover the music of Amy Winehouse at Oak Park Arts Center under the gentle glow of candlelight.

The Oak Park Public Library 14th Annual Oscarthon (Day 2) 10:00am - 11:45pm

No need to wait on the red carpet–come to their 14th Annual Oscarthon final film screening. They'll have popcorn, raffle prizes, and an Oscar-nominated film from the past year. 

Past Lives, 10-11:45 am

Register here.

Forest Park Public Library presents After-Hours Mermaid Movie Splash Bash 5:00-7:00pm

Dress in your best (fancy or mermaid!) for an after-hours screening of the live-action Little Mermaid, take photos at their "Under the Sea" photo station and take home mermaid swag. Refreshments will be served. Make sure you arrive by 5 pm to get in the door! Kids of all ages and their families. Register here.

Park District of Oak Park presents Open Art Studio

They have the supplies, space, and staff to help you get creative in their art studio! Each class will focus on a specific material or subject matter set up by their instructor. 12:30pm-2:00pm. Age 7+ $12.00 - $15.00 Register here.

Robert's Westside presents DeeOhGee w/ Justin & The Cosmics 6:30pm. General Admission In Advance: *$15 + Service Fees*

General Admission Day Of Show: $18 + Service Fees

More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents IRVING BERLIN BRUNCH w/ Petra Van Nuis! 12:00pm. Free. More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents Sidebar Supper Club w/ GROOVE WITNESS 6:00pm. Free. More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents Chicago Rock Ensamble Presents: LO ESSENCIAL CAIFANES TRIBUTO & SODA STERO TRIBUTO 8:30pm. $10.00 - $120.00. More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents Saturday Night In The SIDEBAR W/ The Woolly Rhinos Album Release Party! 9:00pm. Free. More info here.

Symphony of Oak Park River Forest presents String Serenade

3pm

$44 (discount for Park District of Oak Park Residents)

Pleasant Home

217 S. Home Avenue

Oak Park, IL 60302 More info here.

Park District of Oak Park presents Miniatures

Do you appreciate fairy gardens? Enjoy miniature train scenes? Well, they invite you to make a little magic in your own home! In this class, watch your imagination spark to life as you create your very own miniature landscape, add a pond, standing stones, a tiny house structure, and even a miniature person or fairy. Your imagination is the limit. 10:00am-12:00pm. Age 8+ $11.00 - $14.00 Register here.

Park District of Oak Park presents Fairy Gardens

Do you appreciate fairy gardens? Well, they invite you to make a little magic in your own home! In this class, watch your imagination spark to life as you create your very own miniature landscape, add a pond, standing stones, a tiny house structure, and even a miniature person or fairy. Your imagination is the limit. 12:30pm-2:30pm. Age 7+ $13.00 - $18.00 Register here.

Robert's Westside presents Phil Angotti Performs Another Side of Bob Dylan 6:30pm. General Admission – $10 + Service Fees

Reserved Seating – $15 + Service Fees

More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents Bluegrass Brunch in the CLUB with The BOX BAND 12:00pm. Free. More info here.

Monday, March 11th

Nineteenth Century Charitable Association presents Radical Ideas! Women and The Vote

Written and directed by Mary Bonnett, this show follows the journey of three Illinois suffragists, Grace Wilbur Trout, Ida B. Wells, and Catherine McCullough, who fought for the vote and the ratification of the 19th Amendment in Illinois. These three distinct personalities with very different approaches banded together to form a powerful united front in fighting for equality in a day when little was offered for women. Performers include: Judy Blue, Connie Foster, Richard Shavzin, and Alma Washington.

A three-course lunch is served on Mondays at noon. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. for check-in and socializing. Reservations required, call the office at 708-386-2729. More info here.

Mark Dvorak performs at

Maria's Morning Coffee House Loca Mocha

8858 Burlington Avenue

$10 suggested

10am

The Oak Park Public Library presents Latine Author Book Cafe: "The Pain We Carry: Healing From Complex PTSD for People of Color" 6:00pm - 7:00pm Join them on the second Tuesday of each month as they discuss works written by Latine authors. Register here.

Robert's Westside presents Forest Park Teller’s Night

General Admission is $15 + Service Fees ($15 At The Door)

Storytellers begin at 6:30PM

More info here.

Wednesday, March 13th

Robert's Westside presents Rock On Madison: The Braymores

Free w/ RSVP or $10 At The Door

Reserved Seating $10 + Service Fees

More info here.

The Oak Park Public Library presents Wednesday Matinee Film Series: "Black Panther"

1:00pm - 3:30pm

It is a Wednesday Matinee! Each Wednesday the library has a movie matinee film screening at Main Library.

This week, it's Oscar-winning superhero film Black Panther: A superhero known as Black Panther defends Wakanda, a technologically advanced country in Africa that has hidden itself away from the rest of the world. Now, he must face a dissident who wants to sell the country's natural resources to fund an uprising. Register here.

The Oak Park Public Library presents Art Reception: "channeling" by Constance Volk 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Meet artist Constance Volk and enjoy light refreshments. Volk's art exhibit channeling is on view in the Main Library Gallery, March 12-April 13.

The Oak Park Public Library presents VIRTUAL: Author Talk: "The Pain We Carry" With Natalie Y. Gutiérrez 6:30pm - 7:45pm

Meet artist Constance Volk and enjoy light refreshments. Volk's art exhibit channeling is on view in the Main Library Gallery, March 12-April 13.

Fitzgerald's presents JAZZ in the SIDEBAR with The CHRIS GREENE QUARTET 7:00pm. Free. More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents Chicago Blues Interviews w/ host NICK MOSS ft. JOHN PRIMER 7:00pm. $15. More info here.

Wonder Works Children's Museum presents Very Hungry Caterpillar Celebration

March 14 - 18 and March 28 - 30

They love the Eric Carle classic story of the Very Hungry Caterpillar and will be celebrating the voracious insect at various parts throughout the month with story time and art room activities.

Park District of Oak Park presents Beautifully Bizarre

Some art is pretty, this art is strange. Dip your toes into the unique and unusual in this mixed media art class. Each class centers on a theme and utilized a variety of materials. Supplies and instruction are included. 5:30pm-7:30pm. Age 7+ $12.00 - $15.00 Register here.

The Oak Park Public Library presents Otherworldly Reads Book Club: "Annihilation" 6:00pm - 7:00pm

In Otherworldly Reads, you can enjoy a bimonthly book discussion where they alternate between science fiction and fantasy literature. Register here.

The Oak Park Public Library presents Video Editing Workshop: Adobe Premiere Elements 7:00pm - 7:00pm

Explore the basics of video editing with Adobe Premiere Elements. Learn skills like importing video, slicing clips, and exporting video for posting on social media platforms using provided stock footage. Please bring a USB flash drive if you wish to use your own footage or save your work. Laptops with Adobe Premiere Elements will be provided for this program. Register here.

Fitzgerald's presents Jazz in the SIDEBAR w/ MAURICE 7:00pm. Free. More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents THEM COULEE BOYS Return to FITZGERALDS w/ special guest JOHN TILL 8:00pm. $20. More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents Pachanka Music Presents: ROSALBA VALDEZ in the SIDEBAR 9:00pm. Free. More info here.

Friday, March 15th

Comedy Plex presents Erick Esteban

March 15th & 16th

8:00pm - 9:30pm. $25.

More info here.

1128 Lake St

Lower Level

Oak Park IL 60301

Robert's Westside presents Global Music Night: Rami Atassi & Piraguas y Piropos

6:30PM // Music @ 8:00PM

General Admission Advance: *$12+ Service Fees*

General Admission Day Of Show: $15 + Service Fees

More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents SIDEBAR Happy Hour w/ MICHELE MCGUIRE 5:30pm. Free. More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents Friday Night In The SIDEBAR w/ THE VAUGHAN BUILDING 8:30pm. Free. More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents WAYNE "THE TRAIN" HANCOCK Returns to FITZGERALDS NIGHTCLUB 8:30pm. $20-$150. More info here.

Saturday, March 16th

The Oak Park Public Library presents Art Workshop: Creating Creatures & Telling Their Stories

11:00AM-1:00PM

During this workshop, you will merge into groups of two or three, and collaborate on the creation of imaginary creatures, giving them names and stories to match their vibe. This workshop requires no prior experience in drawing or storytelling. Connie's creature-creation method walks you through a few simple steps that always lead to the emergence of an interesting new character. Excellent for ages 8+. Register here.

Compound Yellow presents SIDE YARD SOUNDS: HALI PALOMBO + TWILIGHT FURNITURE + ANDY ORTMANN

7:00 PM 9:00 PM $15 or pay what you can

More info here.

Park District of Oak Park presents Pour Painting

Those pour painting videos are totally addictive! Come make your very own and they’ll clean up the mess! 2 canvas boards per person can be used. They’ll also provide a large variety of colors and finishes to make your painting stand out. 10:00am-12:00pm. Age 7+ $18.00 - $23.00 Register here.

Park District of Oak Park presents Dusk at Dole

Make a night of it! Before you head to dinner with friend/family/significant others, join them for an early evening of creativity! Themes and projects vary inspired by the season but participants will leave with a fun piece to add to their home. 4:00pm-6:00pm. Age 16+ $22.00 - $27.00 Register here.

Robert's Westside presents The Mountainaires

Doors @ 11AM // Music @ 2PM

Free

*The Mountainaires are a country harmony trio from Chicago, Illinois. Jon Williams plays the guitar and sings. Kenneth Rainey plays the mandolin and sings. Josh Piet plays bass.*

More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents FAMILY FUN in the SIDEBAR w/ MR. DAVE MUSIC 10:15am. $25/Family. More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents FUNK BRUNCH w/ Greg Jacks & Brother Help 12:00pm. Free. More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents FITZGERALDS Annual St. Patrick's Day Celebration 12:00pm. $10-$20. More info here.

Sunday, March 17th

Forest Park Public Library presents Craft Supply Swap

2-4pm

Have craft supplies you no longer need? Looking for some new supplies for a project? Join the Library for a craft supply swap! 

Drop off supplies and pick up some new to you materials.

More info here.

Robert's Westside presents St. Patrick’s Day

OPEN @ 11AM || FREE to Attend || RSVP to Guarantee Entry

Irish Soda Bread Contest – 11AM – 1PM

Aimont Moon Performing Van Morrison’s Astral Weeks: 2PM – 4PM

The Shams Band: 5PM – 7PM

More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents ST. PATRICK'S DAY BRUNCH: Classical Blast in Kilts! 12:00pm. $20/seat reserved tables. More info here.

Fitzgerald's presentsTRIBUTOSAURUS BECOMES VAN MORRISON! 7:00pm. $30. More info here.

Monday, March 18th

Nineteenth Century Charitable Association presents Irish Stew, Songs and Stories from Old Ireland

Come enjoy a peek into rural life in Ireland in the early 20th century. Along with some of beautiful Irish songs, Gerry Dignan will share quirky, humorous, and poignant stories give Irish Americans and their friends an idea of the world of their ancestors.

A three-course lunch is served on Mondays at noon. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. for check-in and socializing. Reservations required, call the office at 708-386-2729. More info here.

Tuesday, March 19th

Fitzgerald's presents Songwriter Circle Hosted By: JENNY BIENEMANN and guests Sue Fink and Tisa Batchelder 7:00pm. Free. More info here.

Fitzgerald's presents THE MOTHSTORYSLAM at FITZGERALDS: OBSESSION 7:00pm. $15.00. More info here.

Robert's Westside presents Lil’ Ed & The Blues Imperials 6:30pm.

General Admission

$15.00

More info here.

The Oak Park Public Library presents Wednesday Matinee Film Series: "A River Runs Through It" 1:00 PM-3:00 PM

It is a Wednesday Matinee! Each Wednesday the library has a movie matinee film screening at Main Library.

This week, it's the 90s classic A River Runs Through It: A memoir of two very different brothers—one reserved, the other a rebellious— angling for the attention of their preacher father, who uses fly-fishing as a metaphor to teach his Cain and Abel offspring about life in early 20th-century Montana. Register here.

The Oak Park Public Library presents VIRTUAL: Illinois Libraries Present: Ruth E. Carter: Interweaving Tradition & Imagination Through Costume Design 6:00 PM-7:00 PM

Join them for a special event with Ruth E. Carter, two-time Academy Award-winning costume designer. Carter made history as the first Black person to win an Academy Award in Best Costume Design for the film, Black Panther. She received a second Academy Award in the same category for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

Ruth E. Carter will be joined in conversation with Aisha Harris, co-host of NPR’s Pop Culture Happy Hour and author of Wannabe. Register here.

Fitzgerald's presents JOEL PATERSON Presents: THE WESTERN ELSTONS 7:00pm. Free. More info here.

Enjoy a taste of the Oak Park Area Arts Council's Sculpture Walk in Downtown Oak Park. View the video here.

Oak Park Art League presents Figures and Faces

February 16 thru March 8

720 Chicago Ave. Oak Park, IL 60302

Chicago a cappella's 2023-2024 season is here!  Single tickets are now on sale, although they encourage you to consider one of their membership packages for the best ticket pricing and flexibility. Members can use their tickets in any combination they'd like, receive free unlimited exchanges, get discounts on additional single tickets, and avoid ticket handling fees on the Harris Theater show. Most importantly, it makes you a part of the CAC family! Get tickets and views upcoming performances here.

Oak Park Art League #100dayproject Meet up and get inspired to create for this year's 100 day project which starts Feb 18, 2024. OPAL will host a kick-off meeting on Sunday February 11 (Yes! Super Bowl Sunday) at 11am with fellow creatives in the OPAL gallery. Hear from several artists who have done the 100 days in past years and brainstorm your 100-day project.

OPAL will host support meetups every 25 days to encourage creatives and share progress.

The Oak Park Area Arts Council is proud to announce a new partnership with Dermatology & Aesthetics, 1733 Harlem Ave, Chicago, IL 60707

Artist Nick Bridge's work is being featured in their recently renovated reception area!

The Village of Oak Park’s Sculpture Walk

VOP Sculpture Walk features 12 fabulous sculptures in the Downtown Oak Park Business District. Sculptures are installed along Lake St., Marion and on Westgate. This year the Sculpture Walk will be on display until May of 2024. The sculptures are the works of talented artists from throughout the Midwest and were selected through a juried competition. Seven of the sculptures were created using recycled materials. Be sure to take a close look at Leo the Lion located in front of the Lake Theatre. Leo is made entirely out of recycled bicycle parts! The Sculpture Walk is coordinated by the Oak Park Area Arts Council. For more information, email: [email protected]. Did you know OTOCAST is a free app that allows you to take a self guided tour of the sculptures? Be sure to add it to your phone.

View the sculpture walk video here.

Viticula, recycled steel, Lake and Forest

Cody Norman

Leo the Lion, recycled steel, Lake Theatre

Joe Gagnepain

Swingtime, painted steel, Chase Bank

Shencheng Xu

Defining Inequities, granite, stainless steel, steel, empty store front space

Terry Karpowicz

Reaching for the Sun, metal and polycarbonate paint, Chipotle

Jennifer Meyer

Kaleidiscope, metal, plexiglass, etc.,Lake and Maple

Tia Etu’

Beautiful Changes, corten steel, Crepes and Culichi

Hilde De Bryune

Runner, HDPE plastic and steel, Fleet Feet

Jeff Repko

Reach, resin, Polished Nail Salon

Margot McMahon

Best Old Friends, metal and paint, Coplan and Crane Law office on Westgate

Jennifer Meyer

Point, painted metal and river rocks, The Emerson

Bill McGrath

The Oak Park River Forest Huskie Booster Club is offering a performing arts pass. $75 will get you two tickets into the last performances for the rest of the school year. That’s $2.50 a ticket. Take advantage of this amazing deal!

Get the pass here.

Oak Park Public Library presents Art Exhibit: "Converted - Sations" by Takako Konishi

Takako Konishi's art exhibit will be on view in the Main Library Gallery February 6-March 9. Register to attend the reception and artist talk on February 22, 6:30-8 pm »

Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest presents their 2023-2024 season! Please mark their 2023-2024 concert dates

on your calendars!

April 7, & June 2

You won't want to miss a single concert!

Click here to order your 2023-2024 season tickets.

We have a great Sculpture Walk in Downtown Oak Park this year! Have you seen the sculpture adjacent to District House on Euclid at Lake Street? The sculpture is titled, "Shelter" created by Zach Balousek. It is made out of fiberglass, epoxy resin, steel and concrete. Inside of the sculpture are 18 organ pipes filled with glycerin and water that will gently chime. Recently, Zach heard Bob Dylan's song Shelter from the Storm that hit on a number of things while he was creating this stunning sculpture.

Dancing Krow Studio

2024 Dancing Krow Yearlong Theme:

The Infinite Pulse

An exploration through art of the universal play of dynamic and subtle qualities that exist—light, awareness, motion, activity, stability, and inertia—through the filter of various belief systems and philosophies. Pervasive polarities become an obvious aspect of this pulse as they dance, and each movement makes cosmic sense. Art exhibits will dynamically move and change throughout the year with different aspects presented. 

February-March Exhibit

The Infinite Pulse - "The Rain Falls Equally"

“As rain falls equally on the just and the unjust, do not burden your heart with judgment but rain your kindness equally on all.”  

Closing art reception: March 16, 6:30 - 8:30 pm.  

The closing reception will feature live music with Roberta Miles!

Purchase your tickets now! A limited quantity is available.

Open Hours: Tuesdays 10:30 am - 3:00 pm

and occasional Friday late afternoons from 4-6 pm.

Of course, they are open for special exhibition receptions, and by appointment.

Historic Home Tours!

Cheney Mansion will be open for free self-guided tours Wednesday from 11:00A - 2:00P. A $2 donation or non-perishable food item is appreciated to benefit Beyond Hunger.

Pleasant Home is open for free self-guided tours Thursdays from 11:00A - 4:00P!

Spring MOMENTA

They are excited to share their choreographer lineup for their Spring MOMENTA performances!

Matinee Choreography by

Tatiana Castañeda, Mei-kuang Chen,

Teresa Deziel, and Gina Sigismondi

Evening Choreography by 

Tatiana Castañeda, Mei-kuang Chen, Abagail Darrow, Ashley Deran,

Ricardo Garcia, Betina Dunson-Johnson, and Cora D. Mitchell

Expressions Fine Art Printmaking and Paper Arts Co-op shop features over 10 artists - printmakers, painters, jewelry makers, crafters, and textile artists. Each purchase supports the artists as well as Oak Park’s oldest print collaborative.

Gallery Hours:

Wednesday 10am-12pm; Friday - Sunday 1-4pm

Watch the Fifth Season Premiere with Vanessa Williams here.

Studio of Art has moved to 7510 1/2 Madison St., Forest Park, IL www.studio-of-art.com/classes

New Classes & Workshops

ABSTRACT/MIXED MEDIA ACRYLIC

PAINTING CLASSES

Monthly subscription prices are $50 per two hour class. Subscription renews every month. You can join at anytime.

One time drop in is $60

(please schedule ahead to confirm there is space)

Materials: All materials are included outside of canvases. You can purchase a canvas at the studio or bring your own. Please limit the canvas size to under 40” x 40”.

Clean up: Well I will take care of that for you as well. I mean, you are here to have fun right?!

Open Studio: Come create on your own during open studio times. Price is $120 per month. Limit 4 two hour visits per month. More info here.

Kidcreate Studio Oak Park

Kidcreate Studio Oak Park

Has new classes. Click HERE for full calendar!.

Give an old instrument new life by donating it to PING!

Your instrument donation helps them ensure that all of thier students get their first choice of instrument when they sign up in the fall. When you donate an instrument to PING!, they repair it or tune it up as needed, so that it is ready to put in a student’s hands. So don’t let that unused instrument sit in the closet any longer.

This year, they especially need the following instruments:

Small violas (12 inch, 13 inch, 14 inch)

3/4 violins

Cellos (1/4, 1/2, 3/4)

Saxophones

Any step-up or intermediate level instrument (brass or woodwind)

Contact them at [email protected] for details.

Looking for a last minute virtual program? Jeanette Andrews Sensory Illusions now booking. Learn more here.

Watch Jeanette's performance On Wonder: A performed lecture at the MIT Museum here.

The Actors Garden is here to offer a variety of classes in a variety of different ways. From online to outdoor and small in person classes with safety precautions in place, there is a class for everyone. They also have special weekend workshops and more. Check out the Camps and Events page on their website.

Bead in Hand In celebration of Black History Month, all of their African bead strands will be 20% off all month long. Most of their strands are one of a kind so start planning your visit today!

They also have a very nice selection of hearts, red beads and charms in stock for Valentine's Day beading. As well as unique handcrafted jewelry to give to your sweethearts.

2024 Classes

Take a class at Bead in Hand! This year they are offering:

* Basic Earring Design

* Basic Stringing

* Beginning Bead Weaving: Peyote Stitch

* More Beginner Bead Weaving Stitches

* Advanced Bead Weaving Classes

* Bead Embroidery

* Knotting

* Kumihimo: Japanese Braiding

* Simple Wire Wrapped Stones

* Rosary Workshop

Weekday classes start at 2pm. Saturday classes start at 11am. They will also work with you to schedule a private class. Classes are limited to 4 people and for ages 16 and up. Class prices vary. Visit their Classes page on the website for all the details then use the Classes tab to look at individual classes. Pre-registration is required. More info on their website here.

Wonder Works Children's Museum presents Dino Works

Dinosaurs big and small will fill Wonder Works from March 23 to March 27, 2024 for their most anticipated takeover event of the year. Aspiring Paleontologists of all ages will be delighted by the wide array of dinosaur activities, starting with the giant T-Rex skeleton greeting them as they enter. Dino Works event tickets are $15 for members and $30 for non-members. Wonder Works and Wonder Works CLIMB members only are eligible for member pricing admission. Discounted event tickets are available through Museums for All. Everyone over the age of 12 months, adults and children alike, will need a ticket. Select your ticket entry time and stay as long as you like! Get tickets here.

Sadiyah Hill presents I Forgive Me - Film Screening and Community Discussion

Saturday, March 30, 2024 at 2:00 PM

Join them for an enlightening workshop on self-forgiveness, hosted by Sadiyah Hill, LCSW, CEO of Counseling On Your Couch. In this transformative event, you will explore practical techniques and tools to help you release past resentments, guilt, and self-judgment. Through a combination of mindfulness practices, meditation, and guided exercises, you will gain a deeper understanding of the power of forgiveness and its profound impact on personal growth Register here.

Dominican University Performing Arts Center presents Blithe Spirit

Fri, Mar 22 2024, 7:30pm

Sat, Mar 23 2024, 7:30pm

Sun, Mar 24 2024, 3pm

Martin Recital Hall

Tickets $18

A Comedy by Noël Coward

In this period farce, a cantankerous crime novelist hosts a séance with his wife and friends for inspiration on his latest book. The scheme backfires when the eccentric medium unwittingly summons the ghost of his deceased and temperamental ex-wife, who only some can see and hear. 

This 1940s comedy by Noël Coward has seen stages around the world and has been made into films, radio and television programs, musicals and a novel. Get tickets here.

Dominican University Performing Arts Center presents Pat Hazell’s Permanent Record

Fri, Apr 12 2024, 7:30pm

Lund Auditorium

$23 - $39

Your permanent record holds the secrets that can dramatically impact your future. Seinfeld writer Pat Hazell goes in search of his own Permanent Record in a confessional night of humor, heart and humanity. Hazell hired an opposition research company to investigate his past and is now forced to defend himself. Pat opens the vault to his faults, foibles and foul play to turn a stroll down Memory Lane into a high-speed chase down Memory Highway. If you can’t laugh at yourself, why not laugh at him? Get tickets here.

Dominican University Performing Arts Center presents Carrie Newcomer and John McCutcheon

Sat, Apr 20 2024, 7:30pm

Lund Auditorium

$23 - $33

Carrie Newcomer is a songwriter, recording artist, performer and educator. She has been described as a "prairie mystic" by the Boston Globe and one who "asks all the right questions" by Rolling Stone Magazine. Carrie has 19 nationally released albums on Available Light & Concord/Rounder Records including Until Now, The Point of Arrival and The Beautiful Not Yet. Newcomer has released three books of poetry & essays, A Permeable Life: Poems and Essays, The Beautiful Not Yet: Poems and Essays & Lyrics, and Until Now: Poetry by Carrie Newcomer. Her song "I Should've Known Better" appeared on Nickel Creeks' Grammy-winning gold album This Side, and she earned an Emmy for her PBS special An Evening with Carrie Newcomer.

Recent appearances include PBS Religion and Ethics and Krista Tippett's On Being.

John McCutcheon has emerged as one of our most respected and loved folksingers. As an instrumentalist, he is a master of a dozen different traditional instruments, most notably the rare and beautiful hammer dulcimer. His songwriting has been hailed by critics and singers around the globe. His thirty recordings have garnered every imaginable honor including seven Grammy nominations. He has produced over twenty albums of other artists, from traditional fiddlers to contemporary singer-songwriters to educational and documentary works. His books and instructional materials have introduced budding players to the joys of their own musicality. And his commitment to grassroots political organizations has put him on the front lines of many of the issues important to communities and workers. Get tickets here.

Dominican University Performing Arts Center presents Yesterday & Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience

Thu, May 9 2024, 7:30pm

Lund Auditorium

$55 - $75

Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience is the nation’s most innovative and unique show utilizing the works of the Beatles. This amazing band, anchored by brothers Billy, Matthew and Ryan McGuigan ("mick-gwiggen") perform as themselves and leave the song choices completely in the hands of the audience. The set list is created just before the show, using song requests collected from audience members in the lobby. As an added treat, the reasons people give for chosing those songs make up the narrative of the evening. Every show is different, every show is interactive, and every show proves that The Beatles music truly is the soundtrack to our lives. Get tickets here.

Chicago a capella presents History of Harmony

April 21, 2024

03:00 pm

$38-$48

Get tickets here.

HARRIS THEATER FOR MUSIC AND DANCE

205 E Randolph St.

Chicago, IL 60601

THE DAILY LINEUPS ARE OUT for the 41st FITZGERALDS American Music Festival! Take a look and make your plans for purchasing tickets. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO ON AMF '24

Momenta presents EveryBody Can Dance

in 2024!

April 21st 1-2:15pm Zoom

August 18th 1-2:15pm Zoom

October 20th 1-2:30pm In-Person (Center on Halsted)

December 15th 1-2:15pm Zoom

All workshops are FREE! More info here.

Save the date! Get Ready for Another Exciting Year of Ovation's

Musical Theater Summer Camp

Sing, dance, act, and make friends this summer! Every camp culminates in a show.

Mark your calendars - registration opens Thursday, February 1.

Watch the Ovation website for shows, schedules, and more.

Camps sell out quickly - don't miss out!

Park District of Oak Park presents Ice Show

Registration NOW Open to All Winter Skate Participants

Be a part of their annual Ice Show "Movies that Move Us" in March of 2024. All skate levels participate in the show. When you register for your Winter Skate Academy class, you may also register for the Ice Show. This separate registration and fee are required in addition to Winter 2024 skating class registration.

Ice Show registration includes on-ice rehearsals, dress rehearsals, and a costume. Skaters will perform in two shows the weekend of March 15 – 17. Rehearsals will run February 24 – March 11. Dress rehearsals are Tues/Wed, March 12 – 13. Please see online registration for rehearsal and show times based on the skater’s level. More info here.

Park District of Oak Park presents Adult Dance! They're offering a variety of Adult Dance classes this Fall, from Dancin' at the Masion, to Hip Hop, to Latin Fusion!

All of their instructors are highly skilled and energetic as they pass on their expertise to you and offer the most fun you'll have all week. Step out of your comfort zone and into the studio! Register here.

The Illinois Department of Human Services is looking for artwork (in all media) that shines a light on the journey from darkness to hope for people with addictions, specifically gambling. The juried competition offers cash stipends of $2,000, $1,000 and $500; it’s free to enter and the deadline for submissions is March 31. The winning artwork will be displayed in several public places around the state, including the Illinois State Fair in Springfield. Entry is FREE. Upload submissions through CaFÉ

submission management platform*. Artists must

create a brief profile and login to submit an entry.

https://artist.callforentry.org/festivals_unique_info.php?ID=12754

– Submission deadline is March 31, 2024 midnight CST.

– Artist notification will be in Spring 2024.

– Open call for emerging and professional artists,

ages 14 and up from Illinois.

– High school students are encouraged to submit and

will be juried in the Student category.

– Work by multiple artists, AI-generated works, and

artwork with trademarked imagery will not be

accepted.

– Artists may submit one entry, which can include up

to three works.

– Entry must include artwork(s) information (title,

medium, size, year of creation).

– Photo submissions of all media types will be

accepted.

– Entries must be submitted via high-quality photos in

JPEG/JPG formats-Under 5MB. 1,200 pixels or greater

on the longest side.

– A brief written statement (200-word limit) about

how artwork addresses problem gambling must

accompany the submission.

– Selected artwork will be unveiled at the Illinois

Council on Problem Gambling conference in June

2024 and will be part of a public exhibit

40 North and the Champaign County African American Heritage Trail invite muralists to submit an application to develop location-specific murals celebrating the lives and contributions of African Americans in the Champaign County area. Murals have always been powerful tools to educate, connect, and inform community members about a wide variety of topics including honoring our unique local history. Funding for this mural series is made available through the Experience Champaign-Urbana Foundation and a grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity. Submissions must be received by midnight, March 15, 2024. More info here.

The Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation is excited to share a few opportunities for enrichment grant funding for any individuals from 11 to 25 years of age who reside in Oak Park, River Forest and the surrounding west Cook County communities. 

The Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation is seeking applicants who are interested in summer enrichment grant opportunities. Learn more on their website HERE.

Traditional Fine Arts Organization has multiple grant opportunities. They are offering exhibit grants for upcoming exhibits and other types of presentations. They are looking for American representational art. More infon here.

Berwyn Shops: A Homegrown Project is looking for artists.

Call for Artist: Live Painting at Berwyn Shops. Apply to paint a mural here.

Audition for Oak Park Concert Chorale Fall Semester

Auditioning now for Fall 2024 semester.

ALL VOICE PARTS NEEDED Rehearsals are Tuesday evenings, St. John Lutheran Church, Forest Park, IL. Call 847.420.9200, or email [email protected].

https://oakparkconcertchorale.org/auditions/

Academy of Movement & Music Summer Dance Class Registration begins March 6th. Summer Preschool and 2024-2025 Preschool registration is ongoing. More info on their website. More info here.

Park District of Oak Park presents Printmaking

Wednesdays, 4:00-5:30P Dole Center

Who doesn’t love stamps? Did you know they are a form of printmaking? Join them to learn a variety of printmaking techniques using many materials and leave with unique pieces of art! More info here.

Bravo Performing Arts Summer Academy is open to current 4TH GRADERS (will be 5th grade in Fall 2024) to current 8TH GRADERS (will be 9th grade in Fall 2024).

Each session will work on a different musical.

Students can sign up for both 3-week sessions and have the opportunity to participate in TWO different musicals in 6-weeks!

CAMP DAY: Monday-Friday - 9am-3pm. Campers arrive 8:45-8:50am daily

CREW attends for a half day (11am-3pm, Mon-Thur and 9am-3pm, Friday) the first week of camp and 9am-3pm the second week of camp. More info here.

Park District of Oak Park presents Building Garments

Mondays, 4:00-5:30P Dole Center

Gain confidence and skills in machine sewing, pressing, hemming, taking your measurements, and building clothing. Depending on which garments you choose to make, you'll be able to complete at least 1-2 projects in the class. More info here.

Park District of Oak Park presents Pocket Photography

Saturdays, 1:00-2:00P

Dole Center

Did you know you have a high-tech camera in your pocket? Learn how to take the best photos possible using your own device. Got a digital camera you want to use? Those are welcome too! Their professional photographer will help you get the most out of your device. More info here.

Park District of Oak Park presents Adult Dance Classes

They have a variety of adult dance classes ranging from Beginner level to Intermediate. Not ready to commit to a full session? You can take any of these classes as a drop-in. NEW SESSION STARTING 10/30 More info here.

Academy of Movement & Music

Classes available for 2 year olds thru High School. The Academy offers beginner to advanced training in ballet, jazz, and historical modern dance, as well as private music instruction and an early childhood program with an arts-based curriculum.

Registration ongoing for all classes.

https://www.academyoakpark.com/

Oak Park Art League

NEW ART COURSES AND SESSIONS

REGISTER NOW for WINTER 2!!!

Winter 2 Class Session begins the week of 2/11

The Oak Park Art League teaching studio offers a range of adult classes in various media and techniques for any skill level. Advanced Registration Required.

DRAWING FUNDAMENTALS with David Kohan Mondays, 10am - 12pm

BEGINNING TO INTERMEDIATE DRAWING with Jesse Howard Tuesdays, 10am - 12pm

Figure Drawing Sessions (Non-instructional-with Model) Tuesdays, 1pm - 4pm

WATERCOLOR BASICS with Tony Armendariz Wednesdays, 10am to 12pm

PASTEL PAINTING with Mike Barrett Kolasinski  Wednesdays, 1pm-3pm

BEGINNING TO ADVANCED DRAWING with Jesse Howard Wedesdays, 7pm - 9pm

FIGURE DRAWING Instructed Curriculum  with David Kohan Thursdays, 10am -12pm

BASIC OIL PAINTING with Julie Sulzen Thursdays, 1pm - 3pm

FUNDAMENTAL DRAWING METHODS with Marlon Tobias Fridays, 10am to 12 pm

Figure Drawing Sessions (Non-instructional-with Model)  Saturdays, 1pm - 4pm

New Year, New Classes!

CLASS SCHEDULE

There's a new way to see the class schedule and book classes with Studio of Art!

The Class Schedule tab has the same information but in a new format, making it easier to view the schedule and learn about the different classes they offer. Explore it here!

Abstract Painting for Everybody w/ Melody Kratz

Wednesdays, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Saturdays , 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

Drawing Humans w/ Luke Boeckelmann

Thursdays, from 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm

Filling a Sketchbook w/ Luke Boeckelmann

Thursdays, from 6:30 - 8:30 pm

Collage Art w/ Christine Vilutis

Fridays, from 7 pm - 9 pm

Watercolor Painting w/ Jamie Nance

Tuesdays, from 4:30 pm - 6:30 pm

Teen Painting Class

Tuesdays, from 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

INTUIT Dance is holding In Studio and Zoom dance classes for ages 3 and up! Classes for children, teens and adults! Hip Hop, Ballet, Contemporary and more! Registration is open and ongoing on their website intuitdance.org. Hurry classes are filling!

For more information call 312.505.0186 or email [email protected]. 237 Harrison

The Actors Garden, 909 S. Lombard, Oak Park is here to offer a variety of classes in a variety of different ways. From online to outdoor and small in person classes with safety precautions in place, there is a class for everyone. They also have special weekend workshops and more. Check out their Camps and Events page on their website. For More information contact [email protected].

Oak Park and River Forest High School is back in session. Students are in their desks eager to learn and eager to get to work, both academically and vocationally.

If you are looking to hire high school students, interested in getting involved with educating students about your career, or can provide an opportunity for students with disabilities to gain valuable workplace skills, partner with OPRFHS and invest in making tomorrow’s workforce stronger, better, and brighter.

There’s a lot going on at the high school and many ways you can get involved. Contact Brian Dubina at [email protected] if you want to explore the possibilities or are ready to get started!

The Oak Park River Forest High School has concerts, plays, and performances that you do not want to miss. Be sure to take a look and plan to attend, enjoy and marvel at all of the amazing talent of the remarkable students!

Marlon Tobias placed 2nd in the Museum of Science of Industry Black Creativity

Juried Art Exhibition view his piece The Wise Corner along with other works of art at the museum until April 21, 2024

More info here.

This year, Ovation Academy received the prestigious honor of participating in the “2024 New Works Showcase,” a festival-favorite program celebrating brand-new titles being released into MTI’s Broadway Junior and One-Act Edition catalogs. Only five out of about 120 performance groups were selected based on previous Junior Theater Festival performances. Ovation Academy worked closely with JTF founder, iTheatrics Librettist, and award winning playwright, Timothy Allen McDonald to showcase the never-before-seen “JR.” version of the hit musical HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN. Based on one of the most adored storytellers of all time, Ovation Academy took to the mainstage, recounting the beloved fairy tales of the famous cobbler-turned-writer, Hans Christian Andersen. The performance selections were complete with costumes, props, scenic elements, and advanced choreography. For the showcase performance of HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN, JR. Ovation Academy’s Atlanta Company Members were awarded the “2024 Outstanding New Works Showcase” award.

Chicago a cappella is thrilled to announce the release of their new studio recording, Miracle of Miracles: Music for Hanukkah, released today on Cedille Records! Produced by the Grammy-winning team of producer James Ginsburg and engineer Bill Maylone, Miracle of Miracles features a collection of songs that celebrate the holiday, from the story of Hanukkah, to the candles, miracles, religious observances, and traditional food and games. CDs are available for purchase on their website, and audio is available to stream on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, and many other online platforms.

Ken Trainor has a new book Our Town Oak Park – Walk with Me, in Search of True Community

The book is based on columns he's written about our town over the past 30 years. River Forest and Forest Park make guest appearances, but it’s mostly focused on Oak Park.

Fifteen chapters consisting of 92 refreshed, combined and/or repurposed columns in 344 pages, covering three decades.

Oak Park Concert Chorale is pleased to

make available a special compilation of

premières from the past 15 years.

It includes the North American Première

of Antonio Lotti "Missa Sancti Christophori;

music of Richard Hillert, Kevin Allen,

Carl Schalk, and Herbert Howells.

You may purchase the physical 2-CD package

for $20 or a download for $10.

Please visit our Bandcamp page at the link

below to review the songs and purchase.

https://oakparkconcertchorale.bandcamp.com/album/oak-park-concert-chorale-premi-res

Any questions, email: [email protected] or call 708-848-2130

Congratulations to Maya Bird Murphy!

Chicago Cultural Center Residency

Mobile Makers has begun a four-month residency at the Chicago Cultural Center in partnership with the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. They'll host public programs and pop-ups in the Learning Lab every second and fourth Friday and Saturday. They'll also soon unveil an installation designed by teens who participated in the Chicago Architecture Biennial Youth Council program last spring.

AWI Foundation Grant

They're thrilled to share that we're the recipient of a $55,000 grant from the AWI Foundation. This grant, in combination with the Chicago Recovery Plan grant they received last year, means the build-out of their space at 1757 N Kimball Ave. is 100% funded. They aim to start construction this fall and re-open to the public at the beginning of 2024.

Visit her website for more news and to subscribe to the Mobile Makers newsletter. https://mobilemakers.org/

Got Legos? Forest Park Library is looking for some

Forest Park Public Library is looking for bricks, not books, as it expands its children’s programming next year. The library’s children’s department is seeking Legos, new or used, bricks or minifigures, individuals or sets.

Susan Farnum, the library’s youth service manager, explained that they have been using Legos for the past 10 years, and expanded the programming during the pandemic.

Lego play is fun, she said, and puts kids’ creativity to the test.

The Park District of Oak Park is Looking For Volunteers for Dole Center and the Economy Shop!

Did you know that the money earned at the Economy Shop (Houseware Room) supports their programs? Donate your time for a worthy cause! Contact their coordinators for more information.

They love offering new classes to their participants. They also enjoy giving volunteers a deal on their own Active Adult Memberships! If you have a gift you'd love to share with their group of amazing Active Adults, please reach out to them! Interested in sharing your talent and knowledge in any of the following areas:

Dinner Club - Gardening - Trivia-Dance - Local History - Music - Fitness - ETC!

Please reach out to them if you are interested in filling a need or if you have some other ideas. They look forward to hearing from you!

Antonia Ruppert has finished illustrating a book! 

The book, “The Place Where I Belong” by Candice Klopfenstein is available now!

"Candice Klopfenstein (author) and yours truly (illustrator) have worked together to birth a beautiful book, “The Place Where I Belong.”  You can savor each page now—-it is available on Amazon in a Kindle and a softcover version."

Antonia Ruppert is creating wonderful art. Be sure to take a look at her new website and sign up for her newsletter. https://www.antoniaruppert.com/

Chris Weller and Dave King have a new duo album compromised of live recordings from some past tours. The album is available on Bandcamp.

Chris Weller and his wife Tina Priceman are not only incredibly talented musicians, they also started an artist booking/management company several years ago? Big Fish Booking Company specializes in booking and artist management. Based in Chicago, Big Fish is an artist-run boutique agency. Find out more at: bigfishbookingco.com

Did you know that Chris Weller is now a Booking Agent? Yes, he is! Big Fish is owned by Chris and his wife, Kristina. Be sure to have a look at who this very talented duo are representing and how to get in touch with them.

Margot McMahon shares a brief summary of her Chicago Public Library presentation, A Chicago Aviation History that sets the scene for Mac and Irene falling in love with each other and airplanes. Their lifelong love of flying began in unprecedented times of great ingenuity. Please request If Trees Could Talk from your library, bookshop.org, or your local bookstore. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-9bnFW2LhM

The Park District of Oak Park has several job positions open, full & part-time. More info.

Oak Park businesses are hiring! Check out more than 20 local job listings open now.

CLICK HERE for all local listings!

Looking for employment opportunities in the arts? Be sure to visit the Arts Consulting Group.

West Cook YMCA has job openings for

Life guards, Swim Instructors

Front Desk Representatives

More info here.