http://www.maynestage.comMayne Stage RSS60http://www.maynestage.com/55995bff-cac9-4bf7-8f48-cd6a89f708cd.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/55995bff-cac9-4bf7-8f48-cd6a89f708cd.aspxFRI, NOV 2
8:00 PM
7:00 PM DOORS

Rounding out the 2012 season is a battle 5 years in the making! Pulling only music from Yeezy and Mr. Tambourine Man, the Crash company dancers will each go head-to-head in surprise grudge matches with FORMER CHAMPIONS. Who'll finish the year with the title? We've only got one shot at this one so don't miss it!

The "Keeper of The Floor" Dance Competition (KTF)

Declared “physically fearless” by the Chicago Sun-Times and picked as one of the two best companies to debut in the last decade by NewCity, Chicago Dance Crash continues to raise the bar in bringing dance to the people. CDC’s longest running production, KTF, matches competitive dance with the energy of late-night theatre and the spectacle of sports entertainment, featuring some of the city’s most accomplished dancers assembled for battle on the Maynestage floor. Combining the drive of competition with the energy of a rock concert, Chicago's ONLY full-scale, long-running dance competition welcomes all comers, from breakdancers and ballerinas to belly dancers.... and don't forget about your host... the one and only MATTRICK SWAYZE!

Who takes home the “KTF” belt? YOU decide the winner!
11/3/2012http://www.maynestage.com/9b584469-7dba-42dc-bace-7f3c4720e0c4.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/9b584469-7dba-42dc-bace-7f3c4720e0c4.aspxSUN, OCT 28
2:00 PM
12:30 PM LOBBY DOORS

John Vincent Mahady returns to Mayne Stage after producing and starring in several sucessful Mayne Stage shows. John will be celebrating his 25th year of producing his one-man shows in Chicago.

"Young at Heart" pays tribute to the legendary crooners of the 20th century...Sammy Davis Jr., Mel Torme, Vic Damone, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Bobby Darin, Fred Astaire, Steve Lawrence, Matt Munro and more.

As always, John will be joined on stage with the incrediably talented Beckie Menzie at the piano!

"You find few artists that give as much on the stage as John Vincent Mahady" - Rick Kogan, Chicago Tribune
10/29/2012http://www.maynestage.com/f2124e21-00b3-43e1-970b-8b437f8287be.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/f2124e21-00b3-43e1-970b-8b437f8287be.aspxSAT, SEP 8
8:00 PM
7:00 PM DOORS

Actor /comedian Hal Sparks began his professional career as a teenager in Chicago. As a member of the famed Second City Troupe, his quick wit and affable personality quickly gained him recognition and acclaim. In 1987 he was named the “Funniest Teenager In Chicago” by the Chicago Sun Times.

After a successful run with Second City, Sparks moved to Los Angeles and immediately began performing at numerous comedy clubs, including The Improv, The Comedy Store, The Laugh Factory and The Ice House, as well as at Comic Relief’s American Comedy Festival.

From 1999 – 2000, Sparks was the host of the Emmy-award winning “Talk Soup” on E! Entertainment Television, winning rave reviews from fans and critics alike. For five seasons, he co-starred as Michael Novotny on the hit Showtime series “Queer As Folk,” based on the controversial and critically acclaimed British series.

Hal returns to his stand-up roots on June 4th when he stars in his own one-hour Showtime stand-up comedy special “Charmageddon.”
9/9/2012http://www.maynestage.com/74fa2673-6a3b-46cd-a00b-3821be24a5b2.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/74fa2673-6a3b-46cd-a00b-3821be24a5b2.aspxSAT, SEP 8
10:30 PM
9:30 PM DOORS

Actor /comedian Hal Sparks began his professional career as a teenager in Chicago. As a member of the famed Second City Troupe, his quick wit and affable personality quickly gained him recognition and acclaim. In 1987 he was named the “Funniest Teenager In Chicago” by the Chicago Sun Times.

After a successful run with Second City, Sparks moved to Los Angeles and immediately began performing at numerous comedy clubs, including The Improv, The Comedy Store, The Laugh Factory and The Ice House, as well as at Comic Relief’s American Comedy Festival.

From 1999 – 2000, Sparks was the host of the Emmy-award winning “Talk Soup” on E! Entertainment Television, winning rave reviews from fans and critics alike. For five seasons, he co-starred as Michael Novotny on the hit Showtime series “Queer As Folk,” based on the controversial and critically acclaimed British series.

Hal returns to his stand-up roots on June 4th when he stars in his own one-hour Showtime stand-up comedy special “Charmageddon.”
9/9/2012http://www.maynestage.com/e6c5c7d6-f3cf-46a6-80e6-4cafddb4d8ff.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/e6c5c7d6-f3cf-46a6-80e6-4cafddb4d8ff.aspxFRI, SEP 7
10:30 PM
9:30 PM DOORS

Actor /comedian Hal Sparks began his professional career as a teenager in Chicago. As a member of the famed Second City Troupe, his quick wit and affable personality quickly gained him recognition and acclaim. In 1987 he was named the “Funniest Teenager In Chicago” by the Chicago Sun Times.

After a successful run with Second City, Sparks moved to Los Angeles and immediately began performing at numerous comedy clubs, including The Improv, The Comedy Store, The Laugh Factory and The Ice House, as well as at Comic Relief’s American Comedy Festival.

From 1999 – 2000, Sparks was the host of the Emmy-award winning “Talk Soup” on E! Entertainment Television, winning rave reviews from fans and critics alike. For five seasons, he co-starred as Michael Novotny on the hit Showtime series “Queer As Folk,” based on the controversial and critically acclaimed British series.

Hal returns to his stand-up roots on June 4th when he stars in his own one-hour Showtime stand-up comedy special “Charmageddon.”
9/8/2012http://www.maynestage.com/9ec49954-b202-476d-abed-f90ca5d75adc.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/9ec49954-b202-476d-abed-f90ca5d75adc.aspxFRI, SEP 7
8:00 PM
7:00 PM DOORS

Actor /comedian Hal Sparks began his professional career as a teenager in Chicago. As a member of the famed Second City Troupe, his quick wit and affable personality quickly gained him recognition and acclaim. In 1987 he was named the “Funniest Teenager In Chicago” by the Chicago Sun Times.

After a successful run with Second City, Sparks moved to Los Angeles and immediately began performing at numerous comedy clubs, including The Improv, The Comedy Store, The Laugh Factory and The Ice House, as well as at Comic Relief’s American Comedy Festival.

From 1999 – 2000, Sparks was the host of the Emmy-award winning “Talk Soup” on E! Entertainment Television, winning rave reviews from fans and critics alike. For five seasons, he co-starred as Michael Novotny on the hit Showtime series “Queer As Folk,” based on the controversial and critically acclaimed British series.

Hal returns to his stand-up roots on June 4th when he stars in his own one-hour Showtime stand-up comedy special “Charmageddon.”
9/8/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Hal-Sparks-2.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Hal-Sparks-2.aspxTHU, SEP 6
8:00 PM
7:00 PM DOORS

Actor /comedian Hal Sparks began his professional career as a teenager in Chicago. As a member of the famed Second City Troupe, his quick wit and affable personality quickly gained him recognition and acclaim. In 1987 he was named the “Funniest Teenager In Chicago” by the Chicago Sun Times.

After a successful run with Second City, Sparks moved to Los Angeles and immediately began performing at numerous comedy clubs, including The Improv, The Comedy Store, The Laugh Factory and The Ice House, as well as at Comic Relief’s American Comedy Festival.

From 1999 – 2000, Sparks was the host of the Emmy-award winning “Talk Soup” on E! Entertainment Television, winning rave reviews from fans and critics alike. For five seasons, he co-starred as Michael Novotny on the hit Showtime series “Queer As Folk,” based on the controversial and critically acclaimed British series.

Hal returns to his stand-up roots on June 4th when he stars in his own one-hour Showtime stand-up comedy special “Charmageddon.”
9/7/2012http://www.maynestage.com/5076036f-82e6-4606-acff-25fa5c327af8.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/5076036f-82e6-4606-acff-25fa5c327af8.aspxSAT SEP 1
7:00 PM
5:30 PM LOBBY DOORS

The Haymarket Opera Company presents the Chicago premiere of Handel's comic cantata from 1707. Two shepherds are in love with a fickle shepherdess who tries in vain to outsmart them. Scored for three high voices and full orchestra, including the seldom-heard archlute, this pastoral cantata contains some of Handel's finest arias and duets which he later recycled in such "hits" as Agrippina, Rinaldo, and Acis and Galatea.

Craig Trompeter, Music Director

Ellen Hargis, Stage Director in Residence

David Mayernik, Set Designer

Meriem Bahri, Costume Designer

Eric Peterson, Lighting Designer

Starring

Alison Wahl, soprano, as Clori

Josefien Stoppelenburg, soprano, as Tirsi

Angela Young Smucker, mezzo soprano, as Fileno
9/2/2012http://www.maynestage.com/9b33f730-c679-41c0-a9f8-379d38038122.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/9b33f730-c679-41c0-a9f8-379d38038122.aspxSAT SEP 1
9:30 PM
8:30 PM LOBBY DOORS

The Haymarket Opera Company presents the Chicago premiere of Handel's comic cantata from 1707. Two shepherds are in love with a fickle shepherdess who tries in vain to outsmart them. Scored for three high voices and full orchestra, including the seldom-heard archlute, this pastoral cantata contains some of Handel's finest arias and duets which he later recycled in such "hits" as Agrippina, Rinaldo, and Acis and Galatea.

Craig Trompeter, Music Director

Ellen Hargis, Stage Director in Residence

David Mayernik, Set Designer

Meriem Bahri, Costume Designer

Eric Peterson, Lighting Designer

Starring

Alison Wahl, soprano, as Clori

Josefien Stoppelenburg, soprano, as Tirsi

Angela Young Smucker, mezzo soprano, as Fileno
9/2/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Haymarket-Opera-1.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Haymarket-Opera-1.aspxFRI AUG 31
7:30 PM
6:00 PM LOBBY DOORS

The Haymarket Opera Company presents the Chicago premiere of Handel's comic cantata from 1707. Two shepherds are in love with a fickle shepherdess who tries in vain to outsmart them. Scored for three high voices and full orchestra, including the seldom-heard archlute, this pastoral cantata contains some of Handel's finest arias and duets which he later recycled in such "hits" as Agrippina, Rinaldo, and Acis and Galatea.

Craig Trompeter, Music Director

Ellen Hargis, Stage Director in Residence

David Mayernik, Set Designer

Meriem Bahri, Costume Designer

Eric Peterson, Lighting Designer

Starring

Alison Wahl, soprano, as Clori

Josefien Stoppelenburg, soprano, as Tirsi

Angela Young Smucker, mezzo soprano, as Fileno
9/1/2012http://www.maynestage.com/f307c2f5-da67-4ce2-a9db-0ec50039384c.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/f307c2f5-da67-4ce2-a9db-0ec50039384c.aspxFRI, AUG 24
8:00 PM
7:00 PM DOORS

The most coveted KTF of them all! This is an OPEN INVITE where ALL INTERESTED can compete for a cash prize and the championship belt. Breakers, ballerinas, students of youtube, exhibitionists, and victims of a 'double dog dare' are all welcome. Only one winner but ALL are promised a good time and a story to tell. Reserve your slot before August 18th on Crash's website.

The "Keeper of The Floor" Dance Competition (KTF)

Declared “physically fearless” by the Chicago Sun-Times and picked as one of the two best companies to debut in the last decade by NewCity, Chicago Dance Crash continues to raise the bar in bringing dance to the people. CDC’s longest running production, KTF, matches competitive dance with the energy of late-night theatre and the spectacle of sports entertainment, featuring some of the city’s most accomplished dancers assembled for battle on the Maynestage floor. Combining the drive of competition with the energy of a rock concert, Chicago's ONLY full-scale, long-running dance competition welcomes all comers, from breakdancers and ballerinas to belly dancers.... and don't forget about your host... the one and only MATTRICK SWAYZE!

Who takes home the “KTF” belt? YOU decide the winner!
8/25/2012http://www.maynestage.com/pink-floyd-laser-spectacular3.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/pink-floyd-laser-spectacular3.aspxSAT, AUG 18
10:30 PM CDT
09:30 PM DOORS
In its 25th year of successful touring, this year’s Pink Floyd LaserSpectacular features “The Dark Side of the Rainbow.” Come witness the Wizard of Oz synchronized to Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon soundtrack. It’s a cult classic for all ages. The second half of the show features The Best of Pink Floyd including “The Wall.” It’s all the excitement of a live concert, with a giant video screen presentation, special effect lighting and state-of-the-art laser technology, all choreographed to the greatest band of all time. The LaserSpectacular continues to delight and entertain audiences worldwide. Come experience the Music of Pink Floyd as you’ve never seen before!8/19/2012http://www.maynestage.com/pink-floyd-laser-spectacular1.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/pink-floyd-laser-spectacular1.aspxSAT, AUG 18
07:30 PM CDT
06:30 PM DOORS
In its 25th year of successful touring, this year’s Pink Floyd LaserSpectacular features “The Dark Side of the Rainbow.” Come witness the Wizard of Oz synchronized to Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon soundtrack. It’s a cult classic for all ages. The second half of the show features The Best of Pink Floyd including “The Wall.” It’s all the excitement of a live concert, with a giant video screen presentation, special effect lighting and state-of-the-art laser technology, all choreographed to the greatest band of all time. The LaserSpectacular continues to delight and entertain audiences worldwide. Come experience the Music of Pink Floyd as you’ve never seen before!8/19/2012http://www.maynestage.com/pink-floyd-laser-spectacular2.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/pink-floyd-laser-spectacular2.aspxFRI, AUG 17
10:30 PM CDT
09:30 PM DOORS
In its 25th year of successful touring, this year’s Pink Floyd LaserSpectacular features “The Dark Side of the Rainbow.” Come witness the Wizard of Oz synchronized to Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon soundtrack. It’s a cult classic for all ages. The second half of the show features The Best of Pink Floyd including “The Wall.” It’s all the excitement of a live concert, with a giant video screen presentation, special effect lighting and state-of-the-art laser technology, all choreographed to the greatest band of all time. The LaserSpectacular continues to delight and entertain audiences worldwide. Come experience the Music of Pink Floyd as you’ve never seen before!8/18/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Pink-Floyd-Laser-Spectacular.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Pink-Floyd-Laser-Spectacular.aspxFRI, AUG 17
07:30 PM CDT
06:30 PM DOORS
In its 25th year of successful touring, this year’s Pink Floyd LaserSpectacular features “The Dark Side of the Rainbow.” Come witness the Wizard of Oz synchronized to Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon soundtrack. It’s a cult classic for all ages. The second half of the show features The Best of Pink Floyd including “The Wall.” It’s all the excitement of a live concert, with a giant video screen presentation, special effect lighting and state-of-the-art laser technology, all choreographed to the greatest band of all time. The LaserSpectacular continues to delight and entertain audiences worldwide. Come experience the Music of Pink Floyd as you’ve never seen before!8/18/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Marc-Maron.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Marc-Maron.aspxSUN, AUG 05
7:30 PM
5:00 PM LOBBY DOORS

For over fifteen years, Marc Maron has been writing and performing raw, honest and thought-provoking comedy for print, stage, radio and television. A legend in the stand-up community, he has appeared on HBO, Conan, Letterman, his two Comedy Central Presents specials and almost every show that allows comics to perform. His book based on his solo show, The Jerusalem Syndrome: My Life as a Reluctant Messiah, is out of print and overpriced by vendors who think it might have some collectors value. His three CDs, ‘Not Sold Out’, ‘Tickets Still Available’ and ‘Final Engagement’ are comedy cult classics.

This year, Marc headlined an episode of Comedy Central’s John Oliver’s NY Stand-Up Show and was ranked #7 in Comedy Central’s annual Stand-Up Showdown. His podcast “WTF with Marc Maron,” featuring in-depth interviews with comedy icons like Robin Williams and Ben Stiller, premiered in September 2009 and now averages 160,000 listeners per week. The show hit #1 on the iTunes comedy charts numerous times and has been downloaded by 4.4 million people since its inception in Sept 2009.


“Marc Maron is a startlingly honest, compelling and hilarious comedian-poet. Truly one of the greatest of all time.”

-Louis CK



"I've known Marc for years and I can tell you first hand that he's passionate, fearless, honest, self-absorbed, neurotic, and screamingly funny. And if that's not a delicious recipe for a night of painfully hilarious comedy... Oh, and he's a Jew!!!"

-David Cross

8/6/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Lucy-Woodward.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Lucy-Woodward.aspxFRI AUG 3
11:30 PM
10:00 PM LOBBY DOORS

Born in England, raised in Amsterdam and New York, singer/songwriter Lucy Woodward began her professional music career in her late teens as a session vocalist. The daughter of a composer and an opera singer, Woodward was no stranger to music and grew up taking piano and flute lessons before concentrating on vocal studies at 14. The session work paid off and Woodward's debut, While You Can, was released by Atlantic in 2003. In 2008, Woodward released the jazz and soul leaning sophomore album "...Is Hot and Bothered". Woodward continued in the jazz and retro-pop vein with her 2010 Verve debut “Hooked.”
8/4/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Zombies.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Zombies.aspxWED AUG 1
8:00 PM
6:30 PM LOBBY DOORS

The Zombies were the second UK group following the Beatles to score a #1 hit in America. With gorgeous melodies, breathy vocals, choral back-up harmonies and a jazzy influence, The Zombies ruled the 1960’s with hit singles like “She’s Not There” and “Tell Her No”. Ironically, the group broke-up in 1968 just prior to achieving their greatest success – the chart-topping single “Time of the Season”, from their swan-song album “Odessey & Oracle” (recently ranked #80 in Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Albums of All Time”). Lead singer Colin Blunstone went on to develop an acclaimed solo career, while keyboardist/songwriter Rod Argent rocked arenas in the 70’s with his eponymous band ARGENT.

Over 30 years later, Blunstone and Argent resurrected The Zombies, paying tribute to the group’s musical legacy and collaborating on new studio material. Helmed by founding members Rod Argent and Colin Blunstone, the group is marking its half century with a new album – Breathe Out, Breathe In – and a tour. The ten songs that make up Breathe Out, Breathe In are impeccably crafted pieces; the harmonies are rich, the melodies full, the arrangements exquisite, the organ and piano fresh and the production intuitive. Uncut Magazine raves “Argent and Blunstone find Zombie heaven again.” Starting in September, Argent and Blunstone are joined onstage by bassist Jim Rodford (formerly of Argent and The Kinks), Rodford’s son Steve on drums, and renowned session guitarist Tom Toomey, performing a dazzling retrospective of the cherished Zombies catalogue, favorites from their post-Zombies careers, and of course songs from Breathe Out, Breathe In.
8/2/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Dot-Dot-Dot.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Dot-Dot-Dot.aspxSAT JUL 27
7:30 PM
6:00 PM LOBBY DOORS

The original DOT DOT DOT grew out of the largely improvisatory Da Plain Ensemble in the early 80's. Debuting on 23 July, 1982, the band at that time consisted of Jef Bek (drums), Thymme Jones (keyboards/trumpet), Ross Feller (saxes), Brian Imig (guitar/keyboards) and Terry Killips (bass). Imig and Killips departed soon after and were replaced by Chris Block (bass) completing what was to become the first classic line-up. Combining influences from the worlds of rock, jazz and the avant garde, the predominantly instrumental quartet performed throughout Chicagoland in the mid-80's making multiple appearances at the prestigious New Music Chicago Festival. Second City legend Del Close once described Dot Dot Dot as a "sonic lobotomy". After some initial studio recordings, the band entered its final phase as Ross left to pursue an academic career. Ross was replaced by Scot Ashley (guitars) and the second classic quartet was born, recording two singles before eventually disbanding in 1986.

Tonight's performance reunites the original quartet for the first time in nearly three decades. This will be their only reunion - so your excuses are limited...

Post Dot…

Thymme JONES is a multi-instrumentalist/singer/songwriter who has been a staple of Chicago's vibrant underground music scene for three decades. He is best known for being the founding member of the seminal art-rock band,CHEER-ACCIDENT, who insist on being as thought-provoking and genre-defying as they were at their inception in the early '80s. He is equally at home in both experimental and pop contexts, and has performed live and/or recorded with Tony Conrad, Sleepytime Gorilla Museum, Will Oldham, Bobby Conn, Jim O' Rourke, U.S. Maple, Smog, and many others. He has been a member of Brise-Glace, Illusion Of Safety, You Fantastic!, Yona-Kit, and has recently been spotted playing a key role in Dead Rider (Todd Rittmann's brilliant vehicle for warped rock and R&B eccentricity). When Thymme performs solo, he calls upon his extensive catalog of introspective (and often melancholy) piano/voice songs, which recalls the world of Robert Wyatt, Burt Bacharach, and Todd Rundgren. http://www.cheer-accident.com

Composer, theorist, saxophonist, and educator Ross FELLER currently resides in Ohio. Over the past twenty years he has developed a musical vocabulary that features raw, ecstatic layers of material that seethe with refined, virtuosic gestures, the movements for which are often explicitly choreographed. John von Rhein (Chicago Tribune) characterized Feller’s work as “an elaborate show.” Mary Lee Roberts, former Technical Director of Princeton University’s electronic music studios found Feller’s work to exhibit “a finely defined and personal musical style.” Stanford University composer Brian Ferneyhough has said that, "it is not the tired inherited rhetoric of the Postmodern that fuels (Feller's) music, but a lively and irreverent sense of the positive power of structural plurality - a constantly re-enunciated and celebrated 'rigorous informality.'" http://www.rossfeller.com

Following the disintegration of Dot Dot Dot in 1986, Chris BLOCK continued to work with Thymme and guitarist Jeff Libersher. In 1997 the trio initiated what was to become the second incarnation of Cheer-Accident. After three landmark albums, he departed in 1992 and has remained active in and around the Chicago music scene - most notably with Illusion Of Safety, Star Period Star, The Libertines (not the one you've heard of), Asa Nisi, Fifteen Minutes and Jef Bek. More recently, he had released two solo albums in collaboration with Thymme under the name POX. He has also recorded an album of ambient music in benefit of Valley Of The Kings Sanctuary & Retreat, a big cat rescue with which he has been actively involved since 1997. In addition to music, Chris is also an avid photographer and graphic artist and has had multiple showings at the Around The Coyote festival in Chicago. http://www.djedfre.com

Jef BEK was the resident Musical Director/Composer/ for John Cusack’s New Crime Productions from 1989 to 1994. Shows included FEAR AND LOATHING IN LAS VEGAS and METHUSALEM (Joseph Jefferson Award winner for Musical Direction). Bek also performed original music for the American premiere of A CLOCKWORK ORANGE at The Steppenwolf Theatre. Bek moved to Los Angeles in 1995 and has won 17 awards composing and performing music for theatrical productions. Most recently Bek wrote the music/lyrics and book for EVEL KNIEVEL THE ROCK OPERA and taught Interactive Sound Design at the University of Southern California. http://www.jefbek.com/
7/28/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Dan-Telfer-1.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Dan-Telfer-1.aspxTHU JUL 26
8:00 PM
6:30 PM LOBBY DOORS
Dan Telfer is a lugubrious sprite who has been writing and performing comedy in Chicago since 1996, but that has not stopped him from appearing on popular LA podcasts such as Comedy Bang Bang and Doug Loves Movies. He's toured as an opener for Maria Bamford, Brian Posehn, and Patton Oswalt. You may have noticed his debut CD EP "Fossil Record" on AST Records as a split release with Greg Proops and Paul F. Tompkins. In 2011 he performed in "Best of the Fest" in the Chicago Just For Laughs Festival, Montreal's "Talk of the Fest," and the "New Faces" showcases of both festivals. His writing has appeared in Paste Magazine, The A.V. Club, and the official book based on the TV Show 'Mad Men: The Illustrated World.' But he is perhaps known best for his stand-up chunk "The Best Dinosaur," which became a runaway viral video hit.7/27/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Big-Sams-Funky-Nation.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Big-Sams-Funky-Nation.aspxFRI, JUL 13
07:30 PM CDT
06:30 PM DOORS

Big Sam’s Funky Nation is a driving force of urban funk. Ryan White, of the Oregonian, says the band is “tight enough (and hot enough) to turn coal into a diamond!” The band is led by trombone powerhouse, Big Sam Williams, formerly the trombonist for the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, who the San Francisco Chronicle calls “the top man on the slide trombone in the birthplace of jazz.” Big Sam refuses to let the audience sit still. Between the band’s solos, Big Sam’s signature dance moves and his distinctive trombone riffs, the energy level is high voltage when this band takes the stage!
7/14/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Sound-Culture-Orchestre-Poly-Rythmo-de-Cotonou.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Sound-Culture-Orchestre-Poly-Rythmo-de-Cotonou.aspxWED JUL 11
8:00 PM
6:30 PM LOBBY DOORS
Orchestre Poly-Rythmo de Cotonou is arguably West Africa’s best-kept secret. Two Vodun rhythms dominate the music of Orchestre Poly-Rythmo: Sato, an amazing, energetic rhythm performed using an immense vertical drum, and Sakpata, a rhythm dedicated to the divinity who protects people from smallpox. Both rhythms are represented here mixed in with Funk, Soul, Crazy organ sounds and Psychedelic guitar riffs.7/12/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Howard-Jones-LIVE.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Howard-Jones-LIVE.aspxTUE JUL 10
7:30 PM
6:00 PM LOBBY DOORS

Howard Jones performs his highly successful “Classic Albums” tour at Mayne Stage! The show features Jones’ first two albums HUMAN’S LIB and DREAM INTO ACTION performed in their entirety. Each song will feature specially created projected visuals. Fans will get to experience such hits as “New Song,” “What Is Love?,” “Things Can Only Get Better” and the US #1 “No One Is To Blame.” Of last fall’s first half of the “Classic Albums” tour (and recently released remastered albums), The New Hampshire Union Leader commented, “Howard Jones’ remastered CDs and international tour is a showcase of his signature ‘80s synthesizer sound, a blend of technologically intricate elements of new wave with a buoyant pop sensibility that reflects the spiritualism and optimism of his Buddhist beliefs.” Please see below for the tour itinerary.

Howard Jones first burst upon the contemporary music scene in 1983, with his very English songwriting and pioneering synthesizers. His first two albums HUMAN’S LIB and DREAM INTO ACTION were worldwide hits. HUMAN’S LIB reached #1 in 1984 in the UK and featured the hits “New Song,” and “What Is Love?” In 1985, Jones released the follow-up, DREAM INTO ACTION, which quickly became a Top Ten Platinum album in the United States and featured the smashes: “Things Can Only Get Better,” “Life In One Day,” “No One Is To Blame,” and “Like To Get To Know You Well.” Jones recently re-mastered these classic albums and the associated 12-inch mixes, the latter being a special limited edition box set. They are all available now on his website: www.howardjones.com or on Amazon.com.

A classically trained pianist, Jones applied his technique to the early synths (particularly the Roland Juno 60, the Jupiter 8 and the Moog Prodigy). He also pioneered the classic Roland 808 drum machine and the Sequential Pro-One. In the early days he was triggering sequencers live on stage whilst playing and singing, something that no one had ever done before. These days he still operates on the cutting edge of today’s technology and has been one of the leading exponents of the Roland Fantom G8 and the Roland V-piano. Howard Jones has sold more than 8 million records worldwide and continues to tour the world extensively.
7/11/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Novalima.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Novalima.aspxFRI JUL 6
10:00 PM
8:30 PM LOBBY DOORS

“Afro-Peruvian tradition collides with modern production techniques to create an infectious hybrid. Novalima are part of an exciting movement defining new directions in world music.” – Jason Bentley, Morning Becomes Eclectic at KCRW

“Like Gotan Project at their best, this Afro-Peruvian outfit takes the rhythmic and melodic forms of its traditional music and make something wholly vital and contemporary out them.” – The Independent (UK)

Since its formation in 2001, Novalima has been breaking down boundaries, uniting seemingly irreconcilable genres, communities and generations to create an inspiring movement that has revolutionized the music scene in their native Peru. Founded by four friends from Lima with a shared passion for both traditional Afro-Peruvian music and modern DJ culture, Novalima searches for the common ground between past and future, between tradition and innovation. Novalima has garnered critical acclaim from mainstream and underground media alike, a Latin Grammy nomination for Best Alternative Album, and a featured spot in cult filmmaker Robert Rodriguez’s hit Mexploitation movie Machete. Novalima’s highly anticipated fourth studio album titled Karimba was release earlier this year on ESL music.
7/7/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Ricardo-Lemvo-Makina-Loca-1.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Ricardo-Lemvo-Makina-Loca-1.aspxFRI JUN 29
9:00 PM
7:30 PM LOBBY DOORS

Ricardo Lemvo has established himself as a pioneer with his innovative music. Lemvo's blend of Afro-Cuban rhythms with pan-African styles (soukous, Angolan semba and kizomba) has been described by the Los Angeles Times as “seamless and infectious.”

This Congo-born artist of Angolan ancestry is the embodiment of the Afro-Latin Diaspora which connects back to Mother Africa via the Cuban clave rhythm. Lemvo is truly multi-cultural and equally at home singing in English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Lingala, and Kikongo.

Through the years, Lemvo has performed countless shows in many festivals, night clubs, and Performing Art Centers throughout Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Australia.

Lemvo's six CDs, Tata Masamba, Mambo Yo Yo*, São Salvador*, Ay Valeria, Isabela and Retrospectiva have been enthusiastically acclaimed by both print and broadcast media worldwide.

Lemvo has been the subject of various radio and television programs including BBC Radio, Radio France Internationale, Radio-Télévision Belge, National Public Radio, CBS Sunday Morning, NBC Today Show, CNN World Beat, National Geographic World Music, Rádio Nacional de Angola, and Televisão Pública de Angola.

In film, Ricardo Lemvo & Makina Loca appeared in the 1998 movie Dance With Me starring Vanessa Williams and Chayanne.

Ricardo Lemvo leaves an indelible impression with any and all who hear his music or see him perform. Why? Because, like Lemvo, there is no other.
6/29/2012http://www.maynestage.com/6d60daed-1cda-4f81-b9d3-7dcd00057e81.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/6d60daed-1cda-4f81-b9d3-7dcd00057e81.aspxMON, JUN 25
7:00 PM
6:30PM

A completely new and different kind of talk show: host Elysabeth Alfano of Fear No ART invites 3 different creatives (artists, inventors or entrepreneurs, etc.) to a dinner created by a different celebrity chef at the Mayne Stage the last Monday of every month. Conversation runs from food, to the arts, to current events, etc. THE DINNER PARTY is filmed live in front of an audience and streaming live on the internet, so that viewers can tweet in questions. The live audience stays for sample size tastings of what the chef has prepared when the 1 hour long filming/show is over. Food, alcohol and conversation continue.

This month features Director, Steve James ( The Interrupters, Hoop Dreams) Playwright (Crowns) and Actress (The Unit), Regina Taylor, the Southern food of Chef Paul Fehribach of Big Jones, and opening act Gospel Stellar Award nominee Marco the Poet.

Apps served at 7:15PM
6/26/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Acoustic-Alchemy.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Acoustic-Alchemy.aspxSUN JUN 24
8:00 PM
6:30 PM LOBBY DOORS

Triple Grammy nominated artists Acoustic Alchemy are fast approaching their quarter century of recording since 1987’s Red Dust and Spanish Lace established the ensemble as an ever evolving force in contemporary jazz.

The band are finally putting the finishing touches to their long awaited new album “Roseland” (due for release late summer). Carmichael explains that the spirited feeling of Roseland is the result of a natural chemistry he’s developed with Gilderdale over the years since Gilderdale became Carmichael’s full time creative partner and after the passing of founding member Nick Webb in 1998 and the release that year of Positive Thinking.

The songs were recorded at Gilderdale’s home facility 9 Miles High Studio in York, England and they were mixed at Richard Bull’s Higher Ground Studio in London and at Hansa Haus .Bonn Germany with Klaus Genuit.

Acoustic Alchemy’s rich legacy is based on the extraordinary airplay, sales and critical reception given the many early Nick Webb-Greg Carmichael led recordings followed by those helmed later by Carmichael and Gilderdale. Carmichael with each successive recording is carrying on a legacy begun by Webb and a guitarist named Simon James in the early 80s; those early recordings were collected for the 1992 collection Early Alchemy.

The road to instrumental stardom began when Webb and Carmichael provided the one-off-in-flight entertainment for a Virgin Airlines England to America flight, in search of an elusive recording contract; they often liked to say they “played their way to America”. Signed to the MCA Master Series label by Tony Brown, their popularity took off in conjunction with the rise of the New Adult Contemporary radio format.

Acoustic Alchemy’s early MCA albums—starting with Red Dust and Spanish Lace and continuing with 1988’s Natural Elements and 1989’s Blue Chip—were all later re-released on GRP. One of the band’s most remarkable recordings was 1996’s live in the studio date Arcanum, which featured new arrangements of classics, a few new tracks, and full orchestration. Recorded over three days at Pinewood Film Studios in England (home to all the James Bond films), the sessions were filmed by director Aubrey Powell for a television documentary of the band, released on video as Best Kept Secret; GRP re-released this on DVD in July, 2006 with extra archived live performance and documentary footage. In 2002, Acoustic Alchemy also released Sounds of St. Lucia, a CD/DVD live concert package based on a performance recorded by BET television.

“The band has been through a lot of changes over the years, but the concept of two acoustic guitars has always been the emotional centerpiece which draws people close,” says Carmichael. “I’m happy these days because I love all the musicians in the band and its great touring with them and playing live onstage. For me, whether we’re jamming or stopping for gas at a truck stop, it’s honestly like being on vacation, and we’re excited to have so many loyal fans who have enjoyed taking the journey with us. The positive spirit behind our music and album titles comes from the wonderful relationship we have always had with them.”

Complementing their live performances are familiar Acoustic Alchemy recording and touring members Greg and Gary Grainger from Baltimore MD who provide the powerhouse rhythm section and the remarkable Fred White on shimmering keyboards.
6/25/2012http://www.maynestage.com/26a33dd1-084f-439d-88e5-516f855845cb.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/26a33dd1-084f-439d-88e5-516f855845cb.aspxFRI, JUN 22
8:00 PM
7:30 PM DOORS

All tickets sold through Flatts and Sharpe, for more information go to www.flattsandsharpe.com. Standing Room Only tickets to be sold at the door on June 22.

The instructors at Flatts & Sharpe are fluent in a wide variety of musical styles and techniques, and most teach several different instruments. They can teach students of any age, from small children to senior citizens, and at any level of proficiency. Flatts & Sharpe can thus provide students with individual instruction specially tailored to their particular goals, abilities, and temperament.
6/23/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Flatts-and-Sharpes-Rockin-Revue1.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Flatts-and-Sharpes-Rockin-Revue1.aspxFRI, JUN 22
05:30 PM
4:30 PM DOORS

All tickets sold through Flatts and Sharpe, for more information go to www.flattsandsharpe.com. Standing Room Only tickets to be sold at the door on June 22.

The instructors at Flatts & Sharpe are fluent in a wide variety of musical styles and techniques, and most teach several different instruments. They can teach students of any age, from small children to senior citizens, and at any level of proficiency. Flatts & Sharpe can thus provide students with individual instruction specially tailored to their particular goals, abilities, and temperament.
6/23/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Sound-Culture-presents-Angel-Melendez-Orchestra-Tribute-to-El-Cantante-Hector-Lavoe.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Sound-Culture-presents-Angel-Melendez-Orchestra-Tribute-to-El-Cantante-Hector-Lavoe.aspxSAT JUN 16
9:00 PM
7:30 PM LOBBY DOORS
6/17/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Pat-Travers-Band.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Pat-Travers-Band.aspxFRI JUN 15
8:00 PM
6:30 PM LOBBY DOORS

Since the critically acclaimed 1976 debut album featuring his own brand of high quality seventies guitar rock and roll, Pat Travers has gone on to deliver melodic eighties rock, a blues period throughout most of the nineties, noted performances with various power trio’s during the first few years of the new Millennium, and a full blooded return to the trademark Pat Travers Band sound as he entered his fifth performing and recording decade.

Pat Travers was born and raised in Toronto, Canada. Soon after picking up the guitar at age 12, he saw Hendrix perform in Ottawa. Inspired by Hendrix, as well as other artists including Jeff Beck, Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page, Travers began playing in bands early in his teens; his first bands were The Music Machine Red Hot and Merge, which played in Quebec-area clubs.

While performing with Merge, he was noticed by rock artist Ronnie Hawkins, who invited Travers to perform with him. Travers moved to London and landed a deal with the Polydor label in his early 20s. His self-titled debut album was released in 1976. Travers gained a strong following in his native country with his accessibility during his concerts. He often mingled with fans, sometimes inviting them to join him on stage.

His popularity with fans and his music skill combined to give Travers a reputation as one of the rising stars of Guitar Rock in the mid 1970s. One of his most popular songs is a cover of a Little Walter blues classic, “Boom Boom Out Go the Lights”, Other popular songs included “Snorting Whiskey”, “Heat in the Street”, “I Just Got Paid Today” and “Stevie”. The albums Go For What You Know and Crash and Burn from the early 1980s, increased his profile to that of a super star of the Guitar Rock world.
6/16/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Octopus-Nebula.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Octopus-Nebula.aspxTHU JUN 14
7:30 PM
6:00 PM LOBBY DOORS

Colorado’s Octopus Nebula has recently opened up on the scene, impressing audiences far and wide with their new style of music that blends elements of electronic, ambient, downtemps, breakbeat, rock, acid jazz, and ethereal grooves.

Originally formed in 2004, the current incarnation coalesced in 2008 and consists of Fleeb Thomas on bass, Robin Bloch on guitar, John Safarik on keys, and Dan Raasch on drums. These musicians have come together not only to inspire the dance floor (which they do on a regular basis), but also to spread positive vibrations through music.

The rise of Octopus Nebula has been swift and complete, as was evidenced at the first show they ever played together, a sold-out gig at Colorado’s famous Mishawaka Amphitheater with musical icons from across the pond, Shpongle and Ott. In addition to these two major names, Octopus Nebula has shared the stage with such heavy-hitters as the Disco Biscuits, Random Rab, Bluetech, Lotus, David Murphy (of STS9), Ana Sia, Eskmo, Boombox, Signal Path, EOTO, and RJD2.

Currently laying out the textured psychedelic grooves for their first album, Octopus Nebula shuns the formulaic in favor of a purely original sound, a gamble that has paid off in the long run for this talented quartet. The music refuses to be classified and, as a result, gives the sense that the members of Octopus Nebula are truly breaking new ground.
6/15/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Church-of-Misery.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Church-of-Misery.aspxSUN JUN 10
9:00 PM
7:30 PM LOBBY DOORS

A respected 70s rooted Doom band founded in 1996 by bassist Tatsu Mikami, an ex member of Thrash Metal band SALEM, and guitarist Tomohiro Nishimura. Making up the band numbers would be singer Nobukazu Chow and drummer Hideki Shimizu. CHURCH OF MISERY dwell lyrically almost obsessively on the subject of serial killers but show their obvious debt of gratitude to 70s Rock with frequent cover versions. Apparently the band has made a solemn vow never to defile their ‘Sanctuary’ by attempting a BLACK SABBATH cover version!

Three tracks were donated to the all Japanese compilation album ‘Doomsday Recitation’ issued by Cornucopia Records during January of 1998. However, many fans of the band abroad would be fooled into purchasing ‘Volume 1’, a 1997 release through Doom Records culled from a 1996 Tokyo show and including a cover of GUN’s ‘Race With The Devil’. The album was projected to be an official release but then shelved, the Doom Records version being a bootleg.

CHURCH OF MISERY recorded a split CD with ‘Born Too Late’ Canadians SHEAVY, the sleeve of which depicted the notorious 'Nightstalker' killer Richard Ramirez, which reaped further international exposure. The band included their version of ‘War Is Our Destiny’ by ST. VITUS and the album cover artwork also spoofed BLACK SABBATH’s ‘Born Again’.

The same year CHURCH OF MISERY weighed in with the ‘Taste The Pain’ EP through Bad Acid Records. As well as three tracks chronicling the exploits of infamous serial killers- ‘Room 213’ Jeffrey Dahmer, ‘Taste The Pain’ Graham Young and ‘Plainfield’ Ed Gein, the band topped off the whole affair with a rendition of IRON BUTTERFLY’s seminal ‘In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida’. A further split release arrived in the form of a shared album with Nottingham’s short-lived but influential IRON MONKEY. A split live tape also emerged, ‘Live From The East’ being in alliance with fellow Japanese Doomsters MILLARCA.

CHURCH OF MISERY contributed ‘Sick Of Living (Zodiac)’ to the ‘Stone Deaf Forever’ compilation album. The band has also laid down covers by DEATH S.S. 'Chains Of Death', TROUBLE's 'Come Touch The Sky' and BLACK WIDOW's 'Accident' for tribute albums.

The band signed to Southern Lord Records for the February 2001 ‘Master Of Brutality’ release, this album witnessing new members vocalist Yoshiaki Negishi and drummer Junji Narita. Another 70s cover version was naturally the order of the day for this release, CHURCH OF MISERY tackling BLUE OYSTER CULT’s ‘Cities On Flame’. Typically the remainder of the songs were devoted to mass murderers such as John Wayne Gacy, Herbery Mullin, Peter Sutcliffe, Ed Kemper and the Green River killer.

CHURCH OF MISERY members operate various sidelines. Both Mikami and Negishi are members of Hardcore Rock n’ Roll act G.A.T.E.S. in collusion with Masahiro Futatsugi, guitarist with Crustcore band LIFE and ex-SLOGG drummer Fukawa. Another project of Mikami’s is SONIC FLOWER, a 70s influenced Hard Rock band featuring BUCKET-T drummer Katarao. The bassist has also teamed up with Industrial band LONG DREAM DEAD. Negishi is also busy with COFFINS, a side band featuring members of Sludge band DOT(.).

The Game Two label released archive tracks during 2003 as part of a split album shared with extinct Welsh Stoners ACRIMONY. Later that same year Finnish label Kult Of Nihilow issued the 'Boston Strangler' EP. A July 2004 compilation entitled 'Early Works Compilation' and issued through Leaf Hound Records collected together all of the band's pre 'Master Of Brutality' recordings, adding an unreleased track 'Retal (Howard Unruh)'.

CHURCH OF MISERY allied itself with SOURVEIN for UK and European concerts throughout October 2006.
6/11/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Sound-Culture-Megitza-Quartet-Farewell-Party.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Sound-Culture-Megitza-Quartet-Farewell-Party.aspxSAT JUN 9
9:00 PM
7:30 PM LOBBY DOORS

Chicago bids farewell to the adored Megitza Quartet. Mayne Stage sends them off to Europe in style with their last Chicago appearance!

Megitza is a Polish vocalist, composer, and an upright bass player, who leading her group combines world music with the modern sounds of jazz, pop, and Americana.

Megitza is a true concert revelation - an unusual voice, charisma and beauty. Her newest album, will premiere this year. It is recorded in the studios in the U.S. and Poland.

"What I Desire", Megitza's latest single announces this album.

She comes from Podhale, Poland's highlands, but for the past 11 years she has been living in the USA. Megitza in her compositions creatively refers to folk music, combining the traditional with the modern sounds of jazz, pop, rock, and Americana.

In 2008 Megitza released her debut album "Boleritza" with a more traditional sound. World famous violin wirtuozo Roby Lakatos was a guest on this album. Megitza sings, plays bass, and her music is dynamic, vibrant, full of energy, uniting listeners of all ages. "Passionate rhythm and heart rendering vocals" writes New City Music (Chicago). The four-year collaboration with Chicago musicians Andreas Kapsalis (guitar), Jamie Gallagher (drums) and Marek Lichota (bayan), resulted in hundreds of concerts and appearances at major festivals in the U.S.. Megitza is a composer, vocalist, and a bassist with an amazing musical talent.
6/10/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Guitarra-Azul-CD-Release.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Guitarra-Azul-CD-Release.aspxFRI JUN 8
9:00 PM
7:30 PM LOBBY DOORS
Guitarra Azul releases CD “Lotus Flower” at Mayne Stage. Guitarra Azul is a sensual, smoldering performance of inspired music and dance. 6/9/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Spyro-Gyra.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Spyro-Gyra.aspxTHU JUN 7
8:00 PM
6:30 PM LOBBY DOORS

Sometimes when you fall in love, you know it from the first embrace. A Foreign Affair is the story of five guys and their love affair with the music of the world. This album from the venerable jazz group Spyro Gyra takes you on a journey to the music closest to them from some places in some cases farthest from them. A Foreign Affair draws from the experiences of an enduring international career, one that has taken them to the far reaches of the globe. It’s no secret that Spyro Gyra started out their career with the rhythms of the world. From the samba rhythms and Caribbean feel of their early hits to the latest album, these musicians have made it a point to embrace the music wherever they go. For instance, not long ago they played shows in New Jersey and Rochester NY but then left the U.S. to perform in Turkey, Germany, Netherlands, Israel, India, Martinique and South Africa. That's in less than one month. That tour is something of what this new album sounds like if you just add in a few more places.

It’s a sign of how enduring this band’s career is that, thirty-five years after their first album, their four most recent albums were each nominated for a Grammy®. "One of the benefits of being in this band is that our music is popular all over the planet. Inevitably, we experience the local culture and inevitably we absorb some of those influences," explains leader and saxophonist Jay Beckenstein. "The guys and I were talking about what we wanted to do with this record before we started. We decided to make it all about that. We’ve actually been talking about making this record for years."

Have A Foreign Affair and fall in love with the world all over again. While you’re at it, you just might fall in love with Spyro Gyra all over again.”
6/8/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Jon-Anderson.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Jon-Anderson.aspxWED, JUN 06
08:00 PM CDT
07:00 PM CDT
JON ANDERSON is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable voices in progressive rock as the lead vocalist and creative force behind Yes. Anderson was the author and a major creative influence behind the series of epics produced by Yes and his role in creating such complex pieces as Close to the Edge, Awaken, and especially The Gates of Delirium was central to the band's success. Additionally, Anderson co-authored the group's biggest hits, including I've Seen All Good People, Roundabout, and Owner Of A Lonely Heart.6/7/2012http://www.maynestage.com/For-Singing-Out-Loud.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/For-Singing-Out-Loud.aspxSUN JUN 3
7:00 PM
5:30 PM LOBBY DOORS

Kick off Pride Month by seeing "For Singing Out Loud" featuring Kyle Hustedt and the Project, Amy Matheny, Alma Mendoza, Beckie Menzie, Tom Michael, Scott Montgomery, Bob Moreen, Meghan Murphy, Daryl Nitz, Stephen Rader, With a Twist (Steve Kimbrough, Kevin Bishop, Paul Motondo), Melissa Young, with special guest Honey West. Musical direction by George Howe. Guest accompanist Matt Long.

Performers from Club 3160, Davenport's, Mary's Attic, Petterino's, Stage 773, and more come OUT! to "get the Pride Party started" with songs from Cole Porter, Noel Coward, Elton John, Peter Allen, k.d lang, Melissa Etheridge, Leonard Bernstein, Stephen Sondheim, Freddy Mercury, George Michael, Jerry Herman, Madonna, Lady Gaga and many more!
6/4/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Sierra-Leones-Refugee-All-Stars-Record-Release.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Sierra-Leones-Refugee-All-Stars-Record-Release.aspxSAT JUN 2
9:00 PM
7:30 PM LOBBY DOORS
Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars are a group of musicians who escaped the violence of Sierra Leone’s civil war. The band formed at a West African refugee camp to keep their spirits and hopes alive. Since then, they have become an international musical sensation, playing at South by Southwest, NPR’s World Café, Bonnaroo and Fuji Rock in Japan. Their remarkable story and music has been featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show, CNN International and PBS.6/3/2012http://www.maynestage.com/fdfaa254-222e-452a-8d99-6d33f1a535c7.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/fdfaa254-222e-452a-8d99-6d33f1a535c7.aspxFRI, JUN 1
8:00 PM
7:00 PM DOORS

Why so serious??? Celebrating the opening of Crash's largest production in history, we pay homage to the comic book icon that reminds us there's no problem a couple batarangs and a utility belt can't solve. With all competition rules, music, and costumes paying tribute to the Caped Crusader's hometown, we ask all patrons to come dressed head to toe in black, black, black...like the Gotham night sky.

The "Keeper of The Floor" Dance Competition (KTF)

Declared “physically fearless” by the Chicago Sun-Times and picked as one of the two best companies to debut in the last decade by NewCity, Chicago Dance Crash continues to raise the bar in bringing dance to the people. CDC’s longest running production, KTF, matches competitive dance with the energy of late-night theatre and the spectacle of sports entertainment, featuring some of the city’s most accomplished dancers assembled for battle on the Maynestage floor. Combining the drive of competition with the energy of a rock concert, Chicago's ONLY full-scale, long-running dance competition welcomes all comers, from breakdancers and ballerinas to belly dancers.... and don't forget about your host... the one and only MATTRICK SWAYZE!

Who takes home the “KTF” belt? YOU decide the winner!
6/2/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Be-Bop-Battlin-Ball-Productions.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Be-Bop-Battlin-Ball-Productions.aspxSUN MAY 27
9:00 PM
7:30 PM LOBBY DOORS
5/28/2012http://www.maynestage.com/The-New-Orleans-Suspects.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/The-New-Orleans-Suspects.aspxSAT MAY 26
8:00 PM
6:30 PM LOBBY DOORS

It’s been said that the musicians of New Orleans are all members of one gigantic band that breaks up into smaller groups on a nightly basis. If this were really the case, The New Orleans Suspects would be in a class all their own. The group is comprised of musicians with experience and versatility that rival any other band that the city has ever produced.

The band features "Mean" Willie Green from Neville Brothers, Reggie Scanlan from Radiators, Jake Eckert from Dirty Dozen Brass Band, CR Gruver from Outformation and Kevin Harris from Dirty Dozen Brass Band.

Together these five musicians create music that is firmly rooted in the modern New Orleans sound with compelling originals and tasteful covers. The rhythm section of Scanlan and Green are as comfortable together as red beans and rice. Gruver tickles the ivories or soars into the stratosphere on the organ. Harris provides stellar saxophone fills and solos with great aplomb. Eckert’s rhythm guitar work neatly complements his razor sharp solos. Though the band can clearly jam, with Eckert and Gruver trading off on lead vocals they are no simple jam band.
5/27/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Third-Coast-Percussion.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Third-Coast-Percussion.aspxFRI, MAY 25
08:00 PM
07:00 PM DOORS

REVOLUTION: THE CAGE CENTURY

"Percussion music is revolution." - John Cage
The acclaimed Chicago-based percussion ensemble THIRD COAST PERCUSSION hails the centenary of the groundbreaking American artist JOHN CAGE with the release of its first full-length album, and its debut on MODE RECORDS. Join Third Coast Percussion on May 25, 2012 at Mayne Stage for a concert celebrating the album release and 100 years of musical innovation.

Praised by Time Out Chicago for “chops, polish, and youthful joy in performing,” Third Coast Percussion uses an impressive array of percussion instruments to create a performance experience like no other. With exceptional talent and dedicated artistry, this “sonically spectacular” (Chicago Tribune) quartet combines the driving intensity of drums, the beautiful warmth of marimbas and vibraphones, and the surprisingly exotic sounds of everyday objects to make music that is playful, memorable and profound. In performances around the country, the Chicago-based ensemble has swiftly gained national attention for effortlessly combining the energy of a rock concert with the precision and sophistication of classical chamber music.
5/26/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Chris-Greene-Quartet-1.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Chris-Greene-Quartet-1.aspxTHU MAY 24
8:00 PM
6:30 PM LOBBY DOORS

Chris Greene Quartet returns to Mayne Stage for release of “A Group Effort.” The album was recorded live at Mayne Stage last year.

At a time when jazz continues to seek new audiences, the Chris Greene Quartet sits poised on the future’s cusp. In much the way that classical composers have historically used native folk elements as the basis for their art, the CGQ uses familiar modern materials – the funk and hip-hop he heard growing up – as a bridge between jazz and other genres.

PRESS:

"...a saxophonist highly deserving of your attention." - Neil Tesser, The Examiner

"There's nothing better than listening to music performed by musicians who aren't afraid to take a chance, but who also treat the music with respect. Such is the way of the Chris Greene Quartet." - Bridget Arnwine, Allaboutjazz.com
5/25/2012http://www.maynestage.com/ada4f1ea-4ec0-4cb6-89f8-9cfe61fa9940.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/ada4f1ea-4ec0-4cb6-89f8-9cfe61fa9940.aspxTUE, MAY 22
7:30 PM
6:00 PM LOBBY DOORS

You provide the suggestion, and One Group Mind takes it from there! Specializing in Improvised Theatre, teams of up to ten actors weave together comedy and drama through a series of overlapping story lines... all made up on the spot!

One Group Mind's performers have continued successful television and film careers on The Office, Community, Arrested Development, Saturday Night Live, Reno911!, the Jimmy Kimmel Show, ABC Family's Huge, Comedy Central's Big Lake, and MTV's Spring Break. They have continued successful careers as Artistic Directors of major improv theaters in New York, Second City Main Stage Performers, Directors of Organizing in the Screen Actors Guild, Resident Company Members of major Stage Equity Theaters, and commercial spokespeople for national commercial brands.

One Group Mind performs every Tuesday evening at 7:30, 8:30, and 9:30pm at the Mayne Stage Theater.

Tickets are $5 each. One ticket grants access to all shows. Contact the Mayne Stage to purchase tickets. For more information about One Group Mind, visit their website at: http://onegroupmind.com
5/23/2012http://www.maynestage.com/0e623fad-aab7-497e-972e-014d5459cf42.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/0e623fad-aab7-497e-972e-014d5459cf42.aspxSAT, MAY 19
8:00 PM
7:00 PM DOORS

Come see The Chicago Red Line's upcoming show "Neverland" a twist on Peter Pan!

The Chicago Red Line is Chicago’s premiere contemporary cabaret ensemble. This group of professional singers, actors and dancers are dedicated to bringing a variety of musical genres to our diverse audiences. From musical theater to pop to classic rock, the group does it all.

Founded in 2008 and led by our executive board, the "LOOP", this unique group has performed at a variety of venues throughout the Chicago-land area. If you want to find out more about the members or upcoming shows, visit our website at www.thechicagoredline.com.
5/20/2012http://www.maynestage.com/bee8ed06-7de2-405a-b21b-766e1919007c.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/bee8ed06-7de2-405a-b21b-766e1919007c.aspxFRI, MAY 18
8:00 PM
7:00 PM DOORS

Come see The Chicago Red Line's upcoming show "Neverland" a twist on Peter Pan!

The Chicago Red Line is Chicago’s premiere contemporary cabaret ensemble. This group of professional singers, actors and dancers are dedicated to bringing a variety of musical genres to our diverse audiences. From musical theater to pop to classic rock, the group does it all.

Founded in 2008 and led by our executive board, the "LOOP", this unique group has performed at a variety of venues throughout the Chicago-land area. If you want to find out more about the members or upcoming shows, visit our website at www.thechicagoredline.com.
5/19/2012http://www.maynestage.com/Stafford-James.aspxhttp://www.maynestage.com/Stafford-James.aspxTHU, MAY 17
08:00 PM CDT
07:00 PM DOORS

Elite amongst Jazz musicians for the past 30 years, Stafford James received his musical training in the classical repertoire at the Chicago Conservatory and at Mannes College of Music. For his pleasure Stafford James kept practicing and playing the classical repertoire of his instrument, the contrabass. His programmes go from J.S. Bach to Kodaly’s Sonatina to Mozart, Brahms, Rossini and Ravel amongst others.

At this stage in his life of musician and composer Stafford James has decided to provide another outlet to his career as a concert performer by exploiting the classical repertoire.

Why such a move away from his traditional Jazz public? The reason for this is simple: because the intensity of his expressiveness is tied to a deep sense of equilibrium and nuances; because his playing is endowed with a stupefying rhythmic precision - the very foundation of great Jazz - and because his playingreveals an emotional strength of such rare quality Stafford James deserves to reach a larger audience than that of the usual Jazz “aficionados”.

Stafford James possesses the highest and most perfect sense of positioningand structuring of a work. His rhythmic vitality in concert enables him to confer a quasi incredible dimension – that is to say never yet heard before – to compositions from Old Masters from which, a priori, one would never have expected notable surprises. To see and hear Stafford James play Bach’s Suite or Brahms’ Hungarian Dances is an unforgettable experience…

In addition, the manner in which Stafford James exploits all of the resources of the contrabass with his bow shows how wrong are those who only see the contrabass as an instrument for pizzicati in a Jazz band or as a “valet” in a symphonic orchestra.
5/18/2012