Kennedie Cearlock and Brandi Moore were already first in line outside the Illinois State Fair Grandstand at 11 a.m. — nine hours before Ella Langley’s scheduled 8 p.m. concert. Despite the long wait ahead, the two fans, from Tazewell and Christian counties, were in exceptionally positive moods. With Langley’s growing popularity and reputation for selling […]
Arts Features
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“Hairspray” sticks with you
One of the most vibrant and well-executed productions I’ve seen done locally is currently playing at the Hoogland Center for the Arts. Co-directors and choreographers Morgan Kaplan and Andrew Maynerich and their creative, hard-working team have staged a non-stop, upbeat show that’s guaranteed to take audience members to their much-needed happy place. Not unlike walking […]
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The circle of life at the Muni
The Muni closes out its summer season with its first junior production – an enchanting popular story that’s sure to inspire as well as entertain. With music and lyrics by Elton John and Tim Rice, The Lion King, Jr. is packed with memorable tunes, carefully crafted and colorful costumes, and a talented cast of kids. Based […]
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Persistence pays for local writer
A new jukebox musical, featuring the music of the iconic artist Cher, is on a hopeful trajectory for possible off-Broadway or better yet, Broadway fame. Before you say “not another jukebox musical” and ask, “Isn’t there already a Cher show?” this one follows a very different plot and interesting origin story. Writer Mike Sheedy is […]
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Nominations open for the 2026 Mayor’s Awards for the Arts
The Springfield Area Arts Council, in partnership with the city of Springfield, is accepting nominations for the 23rd Mayor’s Awards for the Arts. Starting Aug. 1, community members are invited to nominate an individual, organization or business whose outstanding contributions have strengthened and enriched the arts throughout Sangamon and Menard counties, the Arts Council’s service […]
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$26 Grandstand tickets for select shows
The Illinois State Fair is celebrating 217 Concert Week with a special ticket promotion. From Aug. 3 through Aug. 9, fairgoers can purchase $26 tickets for three Grandstand concerts. This promotion is available online through Ticketmaster or in person at the Illinois State Fair Box Office and applies to select seating areas while supplies last. […]
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A flurry of magic
Transitioning an epic Disney blockbuster set in a frozen winter to an outdoor stage during a muggy, Midwest summer is no easy task— making this stunning directorial debut by Alyssa and DJ Shultz all the more impressive. Frozen at the Muni is big, beautiful and packed full of fun surprises and talented performers who bring […]
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“Coming Home”
“I have been doing this work as an outcropping of the spiritual journey that I’ve been on for many moons,” said artist Wendy Allen of “Coming Home,” her upcoming pop-up exhibit in downtown Springfield this Saturday, Aug. 1, sponsored by Downtown Springfield, Inc. An accomplished multi-media artist based in Springfield for many years, Allen has […]
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Live from Loomis at Theatre in the Park
Theatre in the Park at New Salem announced a change to its summer lineup. Due to the production of Hands on a Hard Body being postponed until 2027, three new performances have been scheduled. Popular impersonator Rick Dunham brought Elvis Himselvis to the park on July 11 for an evening of rock and rolls hits […]
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Shakespeare in the Park returns to Enos Park for a third year
The Springfield Area Arts Council is facilitating the return of Shakespeare in the Park on Friday, July 24, from 6-8 p.m. at Enos Park, 1000 N. Seventh St., in Springfield. Now in its third year, Shakespeare in the Park will take a different approach than previous seasons. This year’s event will showcase Illinois playwright Kevin […]
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Live from Springfield
Entertainment offerings in the 217 just got an injection of original sketch comedy. A new, local ensemble called the Capital City Comix debuted its show “Friday Night Live” on July 10 to a sold-out crowd. It’s billed as “SNL, but local, louder, and way weirder,” and while it might not be as groundbreaking as SNL, […]
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An ambitious journey to the promised land
Adapted from the beloved 1998 DreamWorks animated film of the same name, The Prince of Egypt follows the story of Moses from his infancy through his quest to free the Hebrew people from the Pharaoh of Egypt. Rooted in the biblical themes of sacrifice, trauma and justice— with music by Wicked composer Stephen Schwartz— this […]
