imusi On The Road

Southern Illinois Charm

Just one hour south of downtown Chicago, is the College of DuPage County in the township of Glen Ellyn. In the local community college are two fabulous venues for the arts.


In addition to an art gallery and the performing arts center being adjacent to the visual arts department, they have two beautiful spaces.


A split level 800 seat theatre with an impressive proscenium stage and a more intimate space with about 200 seats used for a local Equity theater company and also the college's own music and concert series. Best place for lunch in town? RUBY TUESDAYS

Lily of Aurora

Just 45 miles west of Chicago discover the first city with all electric street lights. The Paramount Theater stands proud in the center of town.


With just under 3000 seats this venue is completely renovated inside and out as well as backstage and out front.


We made it time tonight to see our pal Lily Tomlin work her magic for a packed house! Doug's Bar and Grille serves late...

How Green Is My Valley

Palos Hills is a Southwest suburb of Chicago boasting a 580 seat theater on the campus of Moraine Valley College named The Dorothy Menker Theater.


The backstage space is generous with a large green room, chorus dressing rooms and the venue is complete with a plush star dressing room and private bath.


The lobby area just outside the theater where the box office is located, features high beam ceilings and lots of windows to allow sunlight to fill the foyer by day and starlight after dark.


Check back every day this week for updates on our tour of Michigan and Indiana. See previous blog posts for prior tour destinatons.

First Stop: Skokie, IL

The first stop on the imusi tour... The Skokie Theater in downtown Skokie, a Chicago suburb (15 miles from downtown).

Intimate theater with 180 seats (theater style). The stage has no wing or fly space and is designed more for concert events featuring a high tuned Yamaha Baby Grand, but don't try sitting on it, or they'll pull your sound... (we're only half-joking) We know of Octets who played the Skokie with with plenty of stage room to spare. The marble walls, pristine sound, and thoughtful lighting design all make this a favorite spot for taping live performances. (note: taping requests must be made in advance and are priced on the high side).

Typical acts include local cabaret, headliners from Broadway In Chicago, occasional out-of-town acts, and some folk and world music. If you find yourself in Skokie pre- or post-show, check out the Village Inn up the street, which is a divey hang out for performers, patrons and theater staff. And just outside the Village Inn is this:

[COMING UP: Tomorrow in Wisconsin.......]