Metropolis Announces Line-up for ’17-’18 “Artists Lounge Live” Series

Metropolis Announces Line-up for ’17-’18 “Artists Lounge Live” Series

Photo: Michael Mahler will play Paul McCartney hits at Metropolis’ “Artists Lounge Live.”

The Metropolis Performing Arts Centre in Arlington Heights has announced the next season of Artists Lounge Live at Metropolis, featuring Broadway and Chicago performers — John Michael Dias, Jared Bradshaw, Donica Lynn, Michael Mahler, Katie Deal and Heidi Kettenring — in solo concerts.

The season includes tributes to Neil Sedaka, Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters, Aretha Franklin, Paul McCartney, and more. Details of individul concert dates are below. Jess Godwin’s tribute to Elton John will conclude the current season on Thursday, July 6 at 7:30 PM. Artists Lounge Live is produced by Michael Ingersoll. More information at MetropolisArts.com.


The “Artists Lounge Live” season (from the press release):

Breaking Up Is Hard To Do: Neil Sedaka’s Greatest Hits! Starring John Michael Dias (Thursday, September 7, 2017): Golden-voiced Broadway crooner John Michael Dias belts the hits of teen-pop sensation Neil Sedaka. No stranger to the world of smash-hit Jukebox Musicals, Dias’ credits include starring as Neil Sedaka in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Broadway, National Tour); and Frankie Valli in Jersey Boys (Broadway, National Tour, Vegas, Chicago). Sing along as Dias soars on feel-good favorites from Sedaka’s prolific singer-songwriter catalogue, including “Oh Carol,” “Stupid Cupid,” and “Calendar Girl.”

Swinging on a Star: A Salute to Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters, Starring Jared Bradshaw (Thursday, December 14, 2017): All aboard for a sentimental journey back to when Bing was King! Direct from Broadway, debonair baritone Jared Bradshaw (Jersey Boys, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory) evokes cherished American icon Bing Crosby, resonating with all the ease and clarity of the original crooner himself. The dashing Bradshaw is joined by a trio of talented dolls belting out the infectious harmonies of the Andrews Sisters. It’s a real humdinger of an evening that would do Der Bingle proud, featuring familiar hits like “Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate the Positive,” “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling,” and “White Christmas.”

Aretha Franklin: Queen of Soul, Starring Donica Lynn (Wednesday, February 28, 2018): Award-winning Chicago Dreamgirl Donica Lynn triumphs in an awe-inspiring homage to the legendary Aretha Franklin. Lynn earned critical acclaim, as well as Chicago’s Jeff Award and Black Theatre Alliance Award for her heart-wrenching performance in Dreamgirls. Most amazingly, Lynn is a two-time brain tumor survivor, currently battling a third cancerous tumor. Her intimate stories of perseverance and Aretha’s soul-stirring music combine for a deeply spiritual and moving celebration. Uplifting signature songs include, “Respect,” “Think,” and “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman.”

Silly Love Songs: The Paul McCartney Collection, Starring Michael Mahler (Thursday, April 19, 2018): In a musical tour de force, award-winning performer/composer/lyricist Michael Mahler celebrates the genius of Sir Paul McCartney. The wildly talented Mahler does it all. He’s a writer, contributing additional lyrics to the London and Broadway revivals of Miss Saigon; composer of Diary of a Wimpy Kid, October Sky, Hero, and others; and the star of Chicago productions of Little Shop of Horrors, Honeymoon in Vegas, and The Producers. Mahler’s singular talent is perfectly appointed to steward the music of Rock and Roll Hall of Famer McCartney. Enduring hits include “Yesterday,” “Let It Be,” and “Hey Jude.”

Country Sunshine: The Legendary Ladies of Nashville Starring Katie Deal (Wednesday, June 6, 2018): Award-winning country artist Katie Deal (Always…Patsy Cline; Classic Nashville Roadshow) celebrates the legacy of the legendary ladies of Nashville. From “The Cowboy’s Sweetheart” to “The Coal Miner’s Daughter,” Deal sings the hits while insightfully connecting each artist’s influences through the generations. Deal’s dedication to keeping traditional country music alive has earned her national acclaim, including recently being awarded Georgia Country Artist of the Year. Sing along with Katie Deal to hits by Patsy Cline, Tammy Wynette, Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire and many more.

Something Wonderful: Heidi Kettenring in Concert (Wednesday, August 22, 2018): Chicago’s favorite leading lady Heidi Kettenring (Broadway in Chicago: Wicked, National Tour: Disney’s Beauty and the Beast) captivates, lending her signature warmth to a century’s worth of timeless hits. In a chronicle of popular music which is touchingly personal, Heidi reminds us that we all tell time by the songs in our lives. She’s a storyteller sure to stir the heart, and her sentimental journey includes favorites from Berlin to Barbra, to The Beatles and beyond.

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