Podcasts about dueling critics

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek previews the summer movie season with Classic Cinemas CEO Chris Johnson. After some uncertainty the past few years at the box office, the industry is hoping audiences will be back in full force this summer. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a world premiere titled GORGEOUS. And well hear from the author of a book about the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with world famous comedian Jim Jefferies, who is coming to Chicago to film his next stand-up special. The Dueling Critics, Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new stage adaptation of A TALE OF TWO CITIES. Later in the show, Gary talks to Remy Bumppo Theater artistic director Marti Lyons about the new production (ART) she's directing. And we'll hear about a book that puts a spotlight on some of Chicago's forgotten buildings.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek checks in with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra's incoming music director, Klaus Makela. The 29-year-old is set to become the 11th music director of 133-year-old institution. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a world premiere titled BERLIN. Later in the show, Gary talks to the creatives behind a new documentary that looks back at the creation of one of the most popular comic book series of all-time. Gary also catches up with artist Tim Lowly to talk about his new exhibit in Aurora. And we'll take a closer look at the history of Pappy Van Winkle bourbon.

On this editon of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek talks to the director of a new documentary that tells the largely unknown story of a remarkable local man who has worked on cutting edge scientific projects for almost 80 years. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a local production of David Mamet's latest play. Later in the show, Gary previews the latest edition of the Cut to the Chase Festival which kicks off latest this week. And we'll hear from jazz artist Joe Clark.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with filmmaker Jeremy Workman to talk about his fascinating new documentary, SECRET MALL APARTMENT. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a thought-provoking production that tells the story of a Jewish family over the course of 70 years. Later in the show, Gary visits the Chicago-based American Writers Museum to learn about a new programming initiative that will explore the connections between religion and literature. And we'll get ready for Independent Bookstore Day with a profile of a new bookstore in suburban Lisle.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with acclaimed multi instrumentalist and composer Kishi Bashi to talk about his upcoming collaboration with the Chicago Philharmonic. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, joins Gary to review Rivendell Theater's latest, a play titled NO SUCH THING. Later in the show, Gary sits down with WTTW's Geoffrey Baer to chat about his new special that dives into stories about the city's lakefront. And we'll hear about a piece of historical fiction that reimagines Estee Lauder's formative years.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek talks to the playwright behind a world premiere that takes a comedic look back at one of Chicago's most eccentric characters. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new musical that tells the story of the legendary rock group, the Kinks. Later in the show, Gary visits the curator of a new exhibit that covers DuPage's farming history. And we'll revisit Gary's interview with Oscar-winning cinematographer Roger Deakins, who's photo exhibit is on display in Chicago through the end of April.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with renowned composer Missy Mazzoli to talk abut her latest project, a thriller opera that's opening in Chicago. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review Definition Theater's latest. Later in the show, Gary sits down with Nan Giordano, the artistic director of the celebrated Giordano Dance company to talk about a special program coming up. And WDCB's Leslie Keros has the story behind a new recording that sheds light on the career of Lil Hardin Armstrong.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek has a story about one of Chicago's best kept secrets, a 150 year old club dedicated to supporting women musicians. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gart to review a new production of Shakespeare's A WINTER'S TALE. Later in the show, Gary talks with the choreographer behind a new dance program that explores science and discovery. And we'll hear about an exhibit that dives into the history of local typography.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes a closer look at the Block Museum of Art's new exhibit that explores questions through an indigenous lens. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new production of a play that debuted 1777. Later in the show, Gary checks in with THOSE WERE THE DAYS host Steve Darnall to talk about the program's 55th anniversary. And we'll hear from the author of a book that's all about checking out the area's north shore.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek gets ready to cebrate St. Patrick's Day. He'll visit one of Chicago's biggest hubs of Irish cultural activity. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a revival of GUYS AND DOLLS. Later in the show, we'll hear from the author who put together a unique collaborative novel featuring some of the world's most popular authors. The book is takes place during the first two weeks of the pandemic (which officially started 5 years ago this week). Plus, Gary chats with the College of DuPage professor who is bringing John Waters to Glen Ellyn.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek has the story of how surprise guests helped preview the Goodman Theater's upcoming milestone centennial anniversary season. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a current Goodman production starring Helen Hunt. Later in the show, Gary highlights two pieces on Oscar nominated films that could walk away with awards . This past summer Gary talked to the co-directors of SUGAR CANE, a film that's nominated for Best Documentary Feature. And we'll revisit an interview with animator Adam Elliot, whose film MEMOIR OF A SNAIL is up for Best Animated Feature.

On this edition of The Arts Section, we're getting ready for the Oscars. Local critic Janet Arvia joins host Gary Zidek to talk all about this year's Academy Awards. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review Lookingglass' return to the stage. Later in the show, Gary visits the Elmhurst Art Museum's new exhibit that explores man's relationship with our land. And we'll hear from local stage actor Shariba Rivers, a recent recipient of a 3Arts Award.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek sits down with acclaimed filmmaker Alex Thompson and renowned actor Namie Smallwood, two of the key players behind the new film ROUNDING. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review Steppenwolf's latest, a revival of FOOL FOR LOVE. Later in the show, Gary looks back at the history of Facets, the local independent cinema hub is celebrating it's 50th anniversary this year. And we'll take a look at the Museum of Contemporary Art's new exhibit THE LIVING END.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with celebrated opera singer Sondra Radvanovsky to talk about returning home to the Chicago-area and a series of concerts at Lyric Opera. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review the Chicago premiere of a Hamlet-inspired play titled FAT HAM. Later in the show, Gary visits the North Shore-based Marriott Theater as it begins to celebrate it's 50th anniversary season. And we'll check out the Chicago Botanic Garden as it opens the 11th edition of its annual Orchid Show.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek goes backstage at Lookingglass Theater to learn about its upcoming world premiere CIRCUS QUIXOTE. The production marks a comeback for the award-winning theater company that's been hiatus. Later in the show, the Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to preview the plays and musicals they're most looking forward to this winter. And we'll revisit a story on an exhibit that shines a light a novelty that has a strong local connection.

On this edition of The Arts Section, we'll say good-bye to 2024 with a look back at the past 12 months. Host Gary Zidek revisits a piece on a book that documents a unique piece of Chicago art and nightlife history. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to talk about their favorite productions from the past year. Later in the show, WDCB hosts Paul Abella and Leslie Kerros share their favorite jazz albums of 2024. And Gary takes you with to a suburban museum celebrating the movie palaces of yesteryear.

Happy Holidays! On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek talks to one of the artistic directors of Manual Cinema to learn more about the company's imaginative adaptation of A CHRISTMAS CAROL. The Dueling Critics will discuss Second City's latest revue. Later in the show, Gary catches up with the owner of new independent bookshop in the west suburbs. They'll talk about some of challenges and rewards of running a bookstore. And we'll revisit a segment on the regional holiday cocktail known as the Tom and Jerry.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek talks to the director of a play that despite it's famous author, is rarely produced anymore. The Dueling Critics, Kell Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new production of LITTLE WOMEN. Later in the show, Gary takes a trip to an exhibit that's quietly becoming a holiday tradition for many local residents. And Gary catches up with the author of book that dives into the story of Chicago's own Siskel and Ebert.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek checks out an exhibit that explores Chicago's relationship with typography. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to preview all the holiday productions opening on Chicago stages. Later in the show, Gary takes a closer look at the results of a new survey that provides some context on the current state of local small arts organizations. And we'll hear from the author of a biography about one of the world's most popular children's book authors.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek talks to the Museum of Contemporary Art's lead curator about a new exhibit that explores the evolution of contemporary paintings. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new one-man show that parodies Die Hard as a poem. Later in the show, Gary looks back at the 90 year history of the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade. And we'll catch up with the author of a book that looks back at the origins of the holiday we now know as Thanksgiving.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek talks to the author of a new book that dives into the history of a surprising TV hit that's won over fans and critics alike. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new play that reimagines a moment in Blues legend Robert Johnson's life. Later in the show, Gary sits down with a College of DuPage professor who is bringing celebrated cult filmmaker John Waters to campus to teach a master class. And we'll take a closer look at suburban restaurant that's all about biscuits.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes a closer look at a new partnership that aims to make Chicago's dance history more accessible. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new production of the Pulitzer Prize winning play, DINNER WITH FRIENDS. Later in the show, Gary talks to the director of a new touring production of ANNIE, that's coming to Chicago. Gary looks back the incredible life of Quincy Jones. And we'll hear about a exhibit in Wheaton that commemorates the bravery of the soldiers who fought on D-Day.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with acclaimed cinematographer Roger Deakins. The 16-time Academy Award nominee just opened a new exhibition of his photography in Chicago. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, review the Royal Shakespeare Company's new production of PERICLES. Later in the show, Gary visits the Cleve Carney Museum of Art's new video game exhibit, INSERT COIN. And we'll hear from a local big band that plays video game music covers.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with Oscar-winning animator Adam Elliot to talk about his new film MEMOIR OF A SNAIL. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review the world premiere EVIL PERFECT. Later in the show, Gary checks in with acclaimed theater director Lili-Anne Brown to look back at her career and chat about an award she recently won. And we'll hear from best-selling horror author Grady Hendrix.

On this edition of The Arts Section, we'll get into the Halloween spirit. Host Gary Zidek takes you inside Rough House Theater's immersive theater puppet haunted house. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a comedy that just opened in Aurora as a part of the Paramount Theater's Bold Series. Later in the show, Gary catches up with film director and Evanston native Steve Pink to talk about his new political-themed documentary. And Gary talks to Chicago-based artist Robert Earl Paige about his life in the arts.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes you with to the Newberry Library to check out a new exhibition on Chicago's indigenous history. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join me to review the midwest premiere of Sarah Ruhl's BECKY NURSE OF SALEM. Later in the show, Gary catches up with Chicago-based actor Shariba Rivers, they talk about her unlikely path to becoming a professional actor and the 3Arts Award she just won. And Gary chats with playwright Terry Guest about his world premiere children's musical, MILO IMAGINES THE WORLD.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek highlights a new film series that mixes classic silent films with modern day alt rock albums. Gary then takes a closer look at a new exhibit that celebrates the grand movie palaces of the 20s and 30s. Later in the show, the Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new musical take on War and Peace. And Gary takes you inside a new suburban shop that caters to vinyl and beer lovers.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes a closer look at two new opera productions taking the stage in Chicago that both share an interesting backstory. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review Goodman Theatre's INHERIT THE WIND. Later in the show, we'll hear from New Philharmonic music director Kirk Muspratt as he looks back at 20 years leading the suburban orchestra. And Gary talks with the executive artistic director of the Hyde Park Jazz Festival about some of the challenges the fest is facing.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek sits down with trumpeter and composer Joe Clark to talk about his latest project, a jazz comic book series. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, joins Gary to review the world premiere play THE HOUSE OF IDEAS. Later in the show, Gary catch up with the executive producer of WTTW's popular CHICAGO STORIES series, which is set to kick off a new season this week. And we'll hear from Chicago-based artist Alberto Aguilar.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with muralist Rafael Blanco. A new exhibit of his vibrant work just opened in the west suburbs. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to preview all the productions they're looking forward to seeing this autumn. And we'll revisit a conversation with author Aaron Cohen where we talked about his Ramsey Lewis biography.

Happy Labor Day Weekend! On Today's program, host Gary Zidek talks to best-selling author Kerri Maher about her latest book. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to talk about Red Twist Theater's new production of THE NORMAL HEART. Later in the show, Gary catches up with Chicago playwright Mark Pracht to talk about his new work, a play that highlights a piece of comic book history. And Gary takes you with to far west suburban Batavia to check out an arts center that's celebrating 15 years of making the arts more accessible.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek sits down with artist Ellie Vergura to talk about her first solo exhibit, ARDOR, and her journey to becoming a painter. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new stage adaptation of NETWORK. Later in the show, Gary catches up with the CEO of Classic Cinemas as one of the company's theaters prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary. And I'll talk to the author of a book that explores Alfred Hitchcock's complicated relationships with some of his leading ladies.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek talks to the co-directors of an affecting new documentary (SUGARCANE) that explores a series of atrocities that occurred at a Canadian school for indigenous children. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review Second City's latest revue and talk about some of the city's longer running productions. And later in the show, Gary catches up with comedian Paul Mecurio, the Late Show writer and performer will be presenting his Broadway show, PERMISSION TO SPEAK in Chicago-area this week.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek has the latest on the public art project known as the Wasbash Lights that's set to make its debut after10 years of planning. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a musical adaptation of Lewis Carrol's classic Alice in Wonderland. Later in the show, Gary takes you to the Newberry Library to check out a new exhibit on influential Chicago columnist Mike Royko. And I'll talk to a local filmmaker about his latest documentary that follows a candidate's Congressional campaigns.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with acclaimed theater artist Terry Guest to talk about his upcoming project, an adapted children's book that deals with the impact on families with an incarcerated parent. Guest won a Joyce Award this week for adapting MILO IMAGINES THE WORLD. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review Chicago Shakespeare's much anticipated musical version of Lord of the Rings. And Gary revisits his interview with Lyric Opera's outgoing general director, who is retiring after 30 years in the arts.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with vocalist Emmy Bean to talk about the intriguing story of Connie Converse, a musician who by all accounts was ahead of her time. Bean and a group of Chicago-based musicians will pay tribute to Converse with a special performance. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, reviewed Steep Theatre's production of A CASE FOR THE EXISTENCE OF GOD. Later in the show, Gary revisits his interview with chef Jason Hammel, the co-founder of Chicago's renowned Lula Cafe.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek sits down with the director of the Wheaton Municipal Band as he celebrates 45 years leading the group. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to talk about Oak Park Festival Theatre's production of ROMEO & JULIET. Later in the show, Gary visits the DuPage Historical Museum to check out its new exhibit on Presidential Encounters. And we look back at the life and career of Oak Park native and comedy legend Bob Newhart.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with artist Alberto Aguilar to talk about his creative process and his new solo exhibition, GRID LUCK. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, joined Gary to review the Goodman Theater's much-talked about world premiere, MIDNIGHT IN THE GARDEN OF GOOD AND EVIL. Later in the show, Gary talks to the person behind a new film series that aims to shed light on local Black filmmakers. Plus, a review of the new French language film, LAST SUMMER. And WDCB's Dan Bindert interviewed local musicians, Fareed Haque and Goran Ivanovic.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek talks to the co-founders of the Physical Theater Festival a decade after he caught up with them before the first edition of the fest. It's still going strong. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new play titled ZACK EFRON. And later in the show, Gary revisits a piece he did on a fun exhibition that looks back at the heyday of a popular Chicago nightspot.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek previews Drury Lane's new production of AIN'T MISBEHAVIN'. We'll hear from director E. Faye Butler. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review Steppenwolf Theater's much anticipated world premiere starring Laurie Metcalf, LITTLE BEAR RIDGE ROAD. Later in the show, we'll hear about a new jazz singing competition taking place in July. And Gary visits a suburban exhibit that looks back at life in the Chicago-area during World War II.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek has details on a big art exhibit coming to the western suburbs next summer. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, reviewed a new play that mines 80s & 90s nostalgia for comedy. Later in the show, Gary looks at the history of Little Orphan Annie, who is turning 100 this summer. A new exhibit is shining a light on the character's long history. And we'll hear from the author of a book that dives into the history of one of the country's most popular bourbons.

Happy Father's Day! On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with vocalist and pianist Bryan Eng to talk about his new album and evolving creative interests. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new production of A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC. Later in the show, Gary visits the circus. We'll hear from a third-generation member of Circus Vazquez. And we'll check in with the departing executive director of the Elmhurst Art Museum.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes you with to Wheaton-based Cantigny to check out the park's two new D-Day inspired exhibitions. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a world premiere play that will be the last at a longtime Chicago theater space. Later in the show, Gary talks to the president of the Chicago Scots about the 38th annual Scottish Festival and Highland Games. And he'll chat with the author of a book dedicated to celebrating character actors from Hollywood's golden age.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek sits down with Lyric Opera general director Anthony Freud, who is retiring after a long career in the arts. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, joins Gary to review a new thought-provoking play that looks at the potential impacts of AI. Later in the show, Gary highlights some programs aimed at kids this summer. He visits a new Bluey experience in Chicago and catches up with the artist behind a new exhibit in Elmhurst that highlights the popular PBS show Donkey Hodie.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek visits the National Indo American Museum to check out its new exhibit on the roots of the Desi community in North America. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to talk about Lifeline Theater's production of NATIVE SON. Later in the show, Gary looks back at the history of the Rhinoceros Theater Festival as it celebrates year 35. And we'll hear from a Chicago-based artist turned woodworker.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek revisits some of his favorite pieces. Plus, the return the Kelly Kleiman to the Dueling Critics. Gary takes you with to the Chicago History Museum to check out an exhibit all about the city's Polish community. We'll hear from local author and cartoonist Sophie Lucido Johnson to learn more about her creative process. The O.G. Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbabnel, are back together to review a stage adaptation of GODS AND MONSTERS. And later in the show, we'll take an upclose look at the immersive theater production PORT OF ENTRY.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with a member of the Grammy-winning ensemble Third Coast Percussion to talk about the group's upcoming 20th anniversary. Gary previews the Cut to the Chase One Act Play Festival that's coming up this week. The Dueling Critics are off this week, but we'll revisit an interview with critic Jonathan Abarbanel. Later in the show, host Gary Zidek talks to celebrated vocalist Lizz Wright about her new album and connection to Chicago. And we'll hear all about a local non-profit committed to helping artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek talks to one of the chairs of the National Hellenic Museum's popular Trial series, which explores a contemporary issue by looking at the past. The Dueling Critics, Kerry Reid and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review Court Theater's latest. Later in the show, Gary takes you inside Chicago's newest performing arts venue, a loft in the Andersonville neighborhood. And we'll hear about the history of one Chicago's oldest performing arts venues.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek previews the phenomenon that is tomorrow's solar eclipse. The Dueling Critics, Kerry Reid and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new play that tells the story of a young woman who falls in love with a Dairy Queen sign. Later in the show, Gary chats with the program director at the Donnelley Foundation about how small arts organizations are still figuring out how to navigate life post pandemic. And we'll take a closer look at the traveling Disney Exhibit that's in Chicago for one more week.