if following me on twitter you probably saw all the behind the scenes pic of our sunda chef Rodelio on the today show doing a cooking segment- well after me and rod were wandering into Kathy lee and hoda set- and I heard “is someone hungry” so knowing me I raise my hand- to find out later it was human breast milk cheese! You must see the end where I am on! Omg omg omg omg
oh well- we sure represented chitown’s culinary loving scene!!!!!!!! True fans right?!??! omg. Cant take me anywhere
if following me on twitter you probably saw all the behind the scenes pic of our sunda chef Rodelio on the today show doing a cooking segment- well after me and rod were wandering into Kathie lee and hoda set- and I heard “is someone hungry” so knowing me I raise my hand- to find out later it was human breast milk cheese! You must see the end where I am on! Omg omg omg omg oh well- we sure represented chitown’s culinary loving scene!!!!!!!! True fans right?!??! omg. Cant take me anywhere
as you may know, I try to help a lot of chicago talent thru twitter and facebook who could use a little exposure for their songs, art, craft,… a simple shout out, an introduction, or maybe even a spot on our stage,… and when they do make it big, I’m still all about pumping them up… anything to help the ultimate dream that I think we all share, which is the reason why I started this blog… and that’s to show the world, whatever it takes, that chicago talent, art & culture… is absolutely world class!
and with that, it is my honor, to say congrats to chicagoan andrew belle, who was recently named MTV’s “Best Breakout Artist” w/his songs now being played on shows like “Keeping Up With the Kardashians”,” “One Tree Hill,” “90210” and more! And for his huge launch of his debut full-length album “The Ladder” which was just released on Tuesday on iTunes exploding on to the scene making it #1 on the singer/songwriter chart and the 24th most downloaded record in the country overall! (get it all here http://www.andrewbelle.com)
with that much success, this chicago rockstar of ours deserves a party- so since our relationship all started with him performing at rockit brunch, for many weekends over the last couple years, where else to celebrate this enormous album launch, killer award, long list of accomplishments,… than back at home! So with that, join andrew & crew, along w/ his rockit family and friends for a celebratory live performance at rockit wrigley this Sunday night! If haven’t heard him (or even if have), watch this video… you will really dig being with him, and hearing his passion live, on this special night… for info & rsvp contact info@rockitwrigley.com
one of the reasons I started this blog was to give amazing people in chicago a platform to share their talents with a lot of cool people… like you! If you have anyone that you think deserves some attention, just hit me on twitter or on my facebook page, and will check them out!
in meantime, enjoy this chicago band named “fly phoenix” that Kinelam who follows me on twitter sent in… love that they are rocking michael Jackson on guitars in a garage sounding great getting a ton of youtube comments from girls loving their look…just haven’t seen that a lot lately… can’t wait to see what you send in!
one of the reasons I started this blog was to give amazing people in chicago a platform to share their talents with a lot of cool people… like you! If you have anyone that you think deserves some attention, just hit me on twitter or on my facebook page, and will check them out!
in meantime, enjoy this chicago band named “fly phoenix” that Kinelam who follows me on twitter sent in… love that they are rocking michael Jackson on guitars in a garage sounding great getting a ton of youtube comments from girls loving their look…just haven’t seen that a lot lately… can’t wait to see what you send in!
If follow me on twitter you got to join me on the red carpet at the grammys last weekend! Every year I find it exciting, but this year with twitter I was surprised to see how many were loving the tweet pics (kr, Can you link the word tweetpic to the actual page/images maybe that has all of them ?) I sent in real time- couldn’t believe the numbers of hits from you all! Thank you! Anyway, w/the responses from you all I got a ton of requests for video of the chaos so cut and pasted some together here! Pretty crazy huh… so random…
(for links to celebs below- thinking you link to the tweetpic link of me and them when can????)
Shout out to buddies common, Giuliana rancic, black eye peas,.. who were super fun to hang out with on the carpet… as well as nick cannon who you will see as well in the video who is actually coming out to chicago next week for his wife mariah carey’s performances at the chicago theatre and to dj my “twitter/blog one year birthday party” that you all requested! Amazing timing I know- His wife is performing down the street, he was my blog launch dj a year ago,.. it all just makes sense!
And omg I can’t believe its been one year, I learned a ton and have enjoyed blogging here and tweeting w/ all of you so much- thank you for the opportunity and I promise way more fun to come! So speaking of fun, my twitter/blog bday party is Saturday February 13th at the underground! Trust me, this will be one party you do no want to miss!!! (comment below for big requests for tables, vip list,… will do our best)
Oh, and one last huge shout out, the recording academy that is responsible for the grammys has a tremendously respected and all around amazing chicago chapter right here in our own backyard that anyone remotely interested in the music industry needs to check out and be a part of- I have enjoyed it for years and highly suggest it! For more info go to… web= (KR)))
If follow me on twitter you got to join me on the red carpet at the grammys last weekend! Every year I find it exciting, but this year with twitter I was surprised to see how many were loving the tweet pics I sent in real time- couldn’t believe the numbers of hits from you all! Thank you! Anyway, w/the responses from you all I got a ton of requests for video of the chaos so cut and pasted some together here! Pretty crazy huh… so random…
Shout out to buddies common, Giuliana rancic, black eyed peas,.. who were super fun to hang out with on the carpet… as well as nick cannon who you will see as well in the video who is actually coming out to chicago next week for his wife mariah carey’s performances at the chicago theatre and to dj my “twitter/blog one year birthday party” that you all requested! Amazing timing I know- His wife is performing down the street, he was my blog launch dj a year ago,.. it all just makes sense!
And omg I can’t believe its been one year, I learned a ton and have enjoyed blogging here and tweeting w/ all of you so much- thank you for the opportunity and I promise way more fun to come! So speaking of fun, my twitter/blog bday party is Saturday February 13th at the underground! Trust me, this will be one party you do no want to miss!!! (comment below for big requests for tables, vip list,… will do our best)
Oh, and one last huge shout out, the recording academy that is responsible for the grammys has a tremendously respected and all around amazing chicago chapter right here in our own backyard that anyone remotely interested in the music industry needs to check out and be a part of- I have enjoyed it for years and highly suggest it! For more info go to http://www2.grammy.com/Recording_Academy/Chapters/Chicago/
If you read my blog post yesterday you know I have much respect for Sundance- to me its probably the most respected independent film festival in the country, featuring not only Oscar winning talent, but complete unknowns that come in each year and blow minds with pure originality (like the 10 I met at event in post yesterday).
If you follow me on twitter, you also know I got invited to ridiculous celebrity parties & gifting suites that sundance also is starting to be known for (for better or worse). And since many of you said you loved the behind the scenes access I shared on twitter so much and wanted to see more in video, I thought I would oblige here. Just don’t hold the tequila shots and random ridiculousness against me!
Here’s me literally partying before 1000+ screaming fans w/ Mark Ronson’s protege “Wale” who’s collaborated with the likes of Amy Winhouse, Maroon 5, Lily Allen, Lady Gaga, John Mayer,… not only rising on the Billboard Top 40, but called the next “Jay-Z” by GQ Magazine! You said you wanted to be close to the action too- here’s how silly it can get!
If you read my blog post yesterday you know I have much respect for Sundance- to me its probably the most respected independent film festival in the country, featuring not only Oscar winning talent, but complete unknowns that come in each year and blow minds with pure originality (like the 10 I met at event in post yesterday).
If you follow me on twitter, you also know I got invited to ridiculous celebrity parties & gifting suites that sundance also is starting to be known for (for better or worse). And since many of you said you loved the behind the scenes access I shared on twitter so much and wanted to see more in video, I thought I would oblige here. Just don’t hold the tequila shots and random ridiculousness against me!
Here’s me literally partying before 1000+ screaming fans w/ Mark Ronson’s protege “Wale” who’s collaborated with the likes of Amy Winhouse, Maroon 5, Lily Allen, Lady Gaga, John Mayer,… not only rising on the Billboard Top 40, but called the next “Jay-Z” by GQ Magazine! You said you wanted to be close to the action too- here’s how silly it can get!
In the 29th year since it’s inception, the Chicago Music Awards has featured and honored some of the most acclaimed artist in the history music, including : Kanye West, Smashing Pumpkins, Lou Rawls, Chaka Khan, Robert Townsend, R Kelly, Jennifer Hudson, Curtis Mayfield, Buddy Guy, The Mighty Dells, Jerry Butler, Oscar Brown Jr., Albertina Walker, Ramsey Lewis, Dick Buckley, Sir George Solti, The Chi-Lites, Pop Staples, Patty Jo Timmons and Von Freeman – to name a few.
The CMA’s were founded by Ephraim Martin of Martin’s International Culture (who also produces the International Reggae & World Music Awards). He originally set out in the early ‘90’s as a not-for-profit group trying to promote African/Caribbean music, arts and culture. Not before long, he realized that there was already a wealth of all kinds of great culture and music right in his own town of sweet home chicago, thus the CMA’s we born.
The Chicago Music Awards take to the stage again this Sunday the 24th at the Alhambra Palace where you can see Chicago’s own Wilco and Jeremih perform live. Check out info and get your tix at www.martinsinterculture.com
Alright all my friends on facebook, twitter & www.aChicagothing.com, you asked for it, let’s have a party!
Yes, I took down all your suggestions & requests on what you would want at this party, and yes, the party will have it! (well, a majority of it, some of the requests were completely silly & ridiculous, go figure!)
Here are some details:
-It’s this Saturday night, January 9th from 9p-2a @RockitWrigley (3700 N. Clark) w/ some of my favorite rock mashup djs, musical performers, fun friends, and more!
-there will be a private reception from 9p-10p for my followers on twitter w/specialty drinks & hors d’oeuvres! To attend from 9p-10p you and your guests (who better be fun!) must be following me on www.twitter.billydec.com and RSVP to KatieRose@RockitRanch.com asap as space is limited!
-for those like me who want a table for dinner at rockit before the party, Katie rose can accommodate you as well- enjoy and see you there!
Yes, I took down all your suggestions & requests on what you would want at this party, and yes, the party will have it! (well, a majority of it, some of the requests were completely silly & ridiculous, go figure!)
Here are some details:
-It’s this Saturday night, January 9th from 9p-2a @RockitWrigley (3700 N. Clark) w/ some of my favorite rock mashup djs, musical performers, fun friends, and more!
-there will be a private reception from 9p-10p for my followers on twitter w/specialty drinks & hors d’oeuvres! To attend from 9p-10p you and your guests (who better be fun!) must be following me on www.twitter.billydec.com and RSVP to KatieRose@RockitRanch.com asap as space is limited!
-for those like me who want a table for dinner at rockit before the party, Katie rose can accommodate you as well- enjoy and see you there!
**UPDATED January 12th, 2010 : My first Tweet ‘N Meet party was such a success (and I know some of you missed it) that I’m doing another this Saturday – all the info for this weekend is the same above!**
What a way to kick off the new year! Last night crowds of crazed gossip girl, underground & www.achicagothing.com fans got treated to a live performance by Leighton meester who plays blair waldorf on “gossip girl!” and it was definitely a raging time! (most of the free tickets came through twitter as they always do so if not following me click here so don’t miss out anymore!)
My partners Arturo Gomez, brad young & I like to thank our supporters a couple times a year with surprise celebrity performances, and I have to say, even though we have had john mayer, ashlee simpson, kanye west,… and dozens of other high profile stars perform live at our places for all, this group of fans got just as crazy for their girl Leighton!
Check out this video of me & Leighton chilling backstage at the underground before her show thanking you all for all your support… on behalf of www.achicagothing.com& rockit ranch productions… we appreciate you! Oh, and much more to come in 2010… stay tuned!
updated : January 4th – 10am :: here’s some press from leighton’s performance….
Woke up to the song “crazy” by gnarls barkley on the today show saying rolling stone
called it the song of decade? I’m not feeling that- but couldn’t come
up with one to sum it all up- so asked my friends on twitter and
facebook- and here is what the first 10 people to respond said:
Ok- I haven’t had a chance to watch “gossip girl” but sure seems like everyone loves it! And since it’s such a hit, i have to say I am pretty interested in meeting one of the main characters leighton meester who plays “blair waldorf” on the show this Friday night when she performs live for her chicago fans at the underground!! (I especially got excited when watched her “best of” video mix above, it’s pretty good/funny)
The holidays are here – Tis the season to make wishes come true! No organization makes that happen more often than the Make-A- Wish Foundation, which granted 702 wishes last year to terminally ill children throughout Illinois. In December, Make-A-Wish will grant close to 100 wishes alone! The organization has been fortunate to have great supporters but, like most organizations, the economy has had a direct impact on the number of wishes they are able to grant this holiday season. Make-A-Wish is extremely proud that in their 23 year history, they have never had to turn down a wish child due to lack of funds. They are all working very hard to honor that record and be able to grant 700 more wishes this coming holiday season and into 2010. Here is a great local Make-A-Wish success story with a way you can help make those wishes come true…
(kr see if can condense this nxt paragraph down half the size)
Robert Heidkamp III – Bobby is a charismatic eighteen-year-old boy. While Bobby has many good friends, he remains reserved and what his family calls, “an old soul.” He loves to play his guitar, write songs and is an avid reader. In November of 2008, Bobby was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma. He underwent a first round of chemotherapy and just started a second rotation of treatment. Although it makes him weak, Bobby continues to put up a good fight – all the while maintaining his amazing sense of humor. When asked to wish BIG, Bobby wanted his band, A City Sunrise, to perform at the Warped Tour. Thanks to the efforts of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Illinois, his wish was granted! Bobby and his band mates got to sing for twenty minutes in front of a 200-person crowd. Bobby’s parents said, “It helped Bobby stay positive in a way no one else could.” Thank you for giving Bobby and his family the priceless gift of hope. You have turned his dream into reality!
One way you can help is to join us this Thursday night (12/17) for the annual The Grinch Who Gave Back X-Mas @ the underground. A donation of $20 is suggested at the door with a private reception from 9 to 10pm. DJ Eric CubeeChee from Bravo’s hit show “Launch My Line” will be spinning all night long for this great occasion! RSVP: VIP@rockitranch.com
The holidays are here – Tis the season to make wishes come true! No organization makes that happen more often than the Make-A- Wish Foundation, which granted 702 wishes last year to children with life-threatening diseases throughout Illinois. In December, Make-A-Wish will grant close to 100 wishes alone! The organization has been fortunate to have great supporters but, like most organizations, the economy has had a direct impact on the number of wishes they are able to grant this holiday season. Make-A-Wish is extremely proud that in their 23 year history, they have never had to turn down a wish child due to lack of funds. They are all working very hard to honor that record and be able to grant 700 more wishes this coming holiday season and into 2010. Here is a great local Make-A-Wish success story with a way you can help make those wishes come true…
I am of Filipino decent and had the opportunity of receiving my education in the Philippines and living there a great deal of time. My Executive Chef Rodelio Aglibot was born there and raised in Hawaii, Rockit Ranch Productions’ founder and CEO Billy Dec is half Filipino and has been there over a dozen times, and our sushi chef Jesse is Filipino American as well. As we all have ties to the Philippines, clearly it was a priority to do something to help the victims of the terrible typhoons so tomorrow night, Tuesday, December 15, beginning at 6 p.m., Sunda will co-host a very special dinner with Gawad Kalinga, benefiting Operation:
Walang Iwanan (Leave No One Behind) in our new Sunda private room on the second floor.
I am of Filipino decent and had the opportunity of receiving my education in the Philippines and living there a great deal of time. My Executive Chef Rodelio Aglibot was born there and raised in Hawaii, Rockit Ranch Productions’ founder and CEO Billy Dec is half Filipino and has been there over a dozen times, and our sushi chef Jesse is Filipino American as well. As we all have ties to the Philippines, clearly it was a priority to do something to help the victims of the terrible typhoons so tomorrow night, Tuesday, December 15, beginning at 6 p.m., Sunda will co-host a very special dinner with Gawad Kalinga, benefiting Operation:
Walang Iwanan (Leave No One Behind) in our new Sunda private room on the second floor.
I am of Filipino decent and had the opportunity of receiving my education in the Philippines and living there a great deal of time. My Executive Chef Rodelio Aglibot was born there and raised in Hawaii, Rockit Ranch Productions’ founder and CEO Billy Dec is half Filipino and has been there over a dozen times, and our sushi chef Jesse is Filipino American as well. As we all have ties to the Philippines, clearly it was a priority to do something to help the victims of the terrible typhoons so tomorrow night, Tuesday, December 15, beginning at 6 p.m., Sunda will co-host a very special dinner with Gawad Kalinga, benefiting Operation: Walang Iwanan (Leave No One Behind) in our new Sunda private room on the second floor.
I have been getting a ton of questions about our intern program on twitter & facebook… and thought better to show you visually what’s up… so check this video to actually see who you would work with and where… as an intern for rockit ranch productions… the chicago entertainment company that creates, markets & manages our own restaurants & nightclubs like Rockit Bar & Grill, our New asian concept Sunda & The Underground!
Email ilysa at myintern@rockitranch.com with any questions asap as we are interviewing this weekend… and btw, in the video, my intern is writing a guest blog for this site that thousands will read… which you will be able to do too… and you will see a ton of the team running the company around here that were all interns before… so our intern program is pretty intense!
Because the intern program is so great, we really are looking for the best. We need passion & skills. If love working & talking with people wanting to make them super happy, and have strong skills in the world of interactive marketing, social media, creative event production & promotion, and/or graphic design… and want to use it all to deliver the most amazing events, experiences, food, drinks, music, atmosphere, fun,… to the best guests in the world… we want to meet you asap!
I have been getting a ton of questions about our intern program on twitter & facebook… and thought better to show you visually what’s up… so check this video to actually see who you would work with and where… as an intern for rockit ranch productions… the chicago entertainment company that creates, markets & manages our own restaurants & nightclubs like Rockit Bar & Grill, our New asian concept Sunda & The Underground!
Email ilysa at myintern@rockitranch.com with any questions asap as we are interviewing this weekend… and btw, in the video, my intern is writing a guest blog for this site that thousands will read… which you will be able to do too… and you will see a ton of the team running the company around here that were all interns before… so our intern program is pretty intense!
Because the intern program is so great, we really are looking for the best. We need passion & skills. If love working & talking with people wanting to make them super happy, and have strong skills in the world of interactive marketing, social media, creative event production & promotion, and/or graphic design… and want to use it all to deliver the most amazing events, experiences, food, drinks, music, atmosphere, fun,… to the best guests in the world… we want to meet you asap!
If follow me on twitter (click here if you don’t), you were in nyc w/me for the actual live Victoria’s Secret show! Thought I would show you a small video I took after the show from my flipcam above… the look on my face is pretty stupid I know, and I really had nothing to say, but that’s just how good the show was! (and as you can tell, the girls were just shockingly stunning all out there at once strutting so close to me)
On the home front, Victoria secret angel allesandra amrobrosia flew out to host the private vip tv launch of the fashion show right here in chicago a couple days ago at my club “the underground” handing out awards to “chicago’s sexiest” winners from their online contest! Here are the results below… and having won for “sexiest club” the underground & “sexiest restaurant” sunda… my super hard working team of 500 & I humbly thank all of you who allow us to serve you!
Blues/Jazz: Green Mill
Male Celebrity: Vince Vaughn
Female Celebrity: Giuliana Rancic
Restaurant: Sunda
Designer Label: Akira
Neighborhood: Wicker Park
Architecture: The Modern Wing of The Art Institute
Bar/Club: The Underground
Beach: North Avenue
Sports Team: Chicago Bulls
City View: The Signature Room
Happy Hour: Hub 51
Hotel: Sofitel Chicago Water Tower
Spa: Allyu
Band/Musician: Lupe Fiasco
Athlete: Derrick Rose
Kiss: Ferris Wheel Navy Pier
If follow me on twitter (click here if you don’t), you were in nyc w/me for the actual live Victoria’s Secret show! Thought I would show you a small video I took after the show from my flipcam above… the look on my face is pretty stupid I know, and I really had nothing to say, but that’s just how good the show was! (and as you can tell, the girls were just shockingly stunning all out there at once strutting so close to me)
On the home front, Victoria secret angel alessandra ambrosio flew out to host the private vip tv launch of the fashion show right here in chicago a couple days ago at my club “the underground” handing out awards to “chicago’s sexiest” winners from their online contest! Here are the results below… and having won for “sexiest club” the underground & “sexiest restaurant” sunda… my super hard working team of 500 & I humbly thank all of you who allow us to serve you!
Yes we live in the big city- but we have a whole lot of country lovin in us! If didn’t know, chicago actually has a hidden music industry reputation on the road as being a great stop for country singers… there is so much support here, yet we aren’t really publicly known for it!
Most who are in the country know, listen to our country station US99.5… who by the way puts on a huge live country concert series celebrating the release of new country music to our city- and this year, Grammy award-winner and American Idol Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood will be performing at it- and its tonight at Joe’s!
Being a huge Carrie fan myself, I’ve seen her in concert two separate times and she is amazing- one of which was actually here in the chicagoland area at Ravinia Pavilion in Highland Park! Anyway, tickets to this event can’t be purchased, but you can still win them today by checking out LINK and calling (312) 591-8799! Hope to see you there!!
Yes we live in the big city- but we have a whole lot of country lovin in us! If didn’t know, chicago actually has a hidden music industry reputation on the road as being a great stop for country singers… there is so much support here, yet we aren’t really publicly known for it!
Most who are in the country know, listen to our country station US99.5… who by the way puts on a huge live country concert series celebrating the release of new country music to our city- and this year, Grammy award-winner and American Idol Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood will be performing at it- and its tonight at Joe’s!
Being a huge Carrie fan myself, I’ve seen her in concert two separate times and she is amazing- one of which was actually here in the chicagoland area at Ravinia Pavilion in Highland Park! Anyway, tickets to this event can’t be purchased, but you can still win them today by checking out http://tr.im/Gx3G and calling (312) 591-8799! Hope to see you there!!
If you’ve been down w/the Chicago Music scene over the past 20 years, maybe you’ve heard about this great non-profit organization called Rock for Kids (RFK) started by volunteers in Chicago’s music and entertainment industry, who wanted to give back to the community. RFK provides support, hope, inspiration and assistance to underserved children and teens, and since they believe that music can be a positive influence in kids lives, they offer free year-round music education for children in need.
Even though RFK started out as a holiday shopping program that gave holiday assistance to agencies in need while also supplying Chicago’s homeless children with toys and necessities for the holidays, the volunteers realized they all shared a love for art and music especially, so the organization shifted gears and started bringing free, quality music education into the lives of Chicago’s under-served children.
On 12/4, I will be supporting RFK at their 21st Annual Rock and Roll Charity Auction, as I do every year, at the Park West (322 W. Armitage), and you should join me! At the event, they auction off some pretty cool items, featuring autographed guitars, posters, and experiential packages, mostly related to the music world. Participants will have the chance to bid on items from famous musicians including Led Zeppelin, Elton John & Billy Joel, Wilco & Barack Obama, Bruce Springsteen, Green Day, Steely Dan, AC/DC, The Swell Season and many more…but most importantly, the proceeds go to the support of free music education to at risk kids, predominantly in shelters or other similar living environments. Visit http://rockforkids.org/ for more info!
If you’ve been down w/the Chicago Music scene over the past 20 years, maybe you’ve heard about this great non-profit organization called Rock for Kids (RFK) started by volunteers in Chicago’s music and entertainment industry, who wanted to give back to the community. RFK provides support, hope, inspiration and assistance to underserved children and teens, and since they believe that music can be a positive influence in kids lives, they offer free year-round music education for children in need.
Even though RFK started out as a holiday shopping program that gave holiday assistance to agencies in need while also supplying Chicago’s homeless children with toys and necessities for the holidays, the volunteers realized they all shared a love for art and music especially, so the organization shifted gears and started bringing free, quality music education into the lives of Chicago’s under-served children.
On 12/4, I will be supporting RFK at their 21st Annual Rock and Roll Charity Auction, as I do every year, at the Park West (322 W. Armitage), and you should join me! At the event, they auction off some pretty cool items, featuring autographed guitars, posters, and experiential packages, mostly related to the music world. Participants will have the chance to bid on items from famous musicians including Led Zeppelin, Elton John & Billy Joel, Wilco & Barack Obama, Bruce Springsteen, Green Day, Steely Dan, AC/DC, The Swell Season and many more…but most importantly, the proceeds go to the support of free music education to at risk kids, predominantly in shelters or other similar living environments. Visit http://rockforkids.org for more info!
I know it is hard for some to believe for some reason, but I love the ballet… and I’m especially excited to share news that because 2010 marks the 90th anniversary of a famous Paris-born surrealist ballet, Le Boeuf sur le Toit (English translation: The Ox on the Roof: The Nothing-Doing Bar), T. Daniel Productions, NFP, (the Chicago Mime Company), has coordinated 2 special performances in it’s honor- one for us Chicagoans, and one in Paris on the original stage of the ballet!
The show is particularly important to T. Daniel and Laurie Willets, artistic directors and internationally-renowned Mime Artists, because they studied the art of Mime under Marcel Marceau and Etienne Decroux, two of masters of the modern art! Also, pretty cool that even though Paris is the “spiritual Home” of Mime, T. Daniel and Laurie Willets made Chicago their home base, and Marceau brought his official Paris school to Chicago, the only other city to host his school!
For all who are interested, the basic plot of the ballet is a Frenchman’s view of what an American bar would be like during Prohibition. It’s shown through a sequence of scenes based on music inspired by Brazil, a country in which the composer spent two years during World War I. The stage set is that of a bar frequented by a number of characters: a bookmaker, a dwarf, a boxer, a woman dressed in man’s clothing, a policeman, many more. If you want to check out this historical performance, head out to the Music Institute of Chicago in Evanston on November 12th or check out http://www.tdanielproductions.org/ for more info!
I know it is hard for some to believe for some reason, but I love the ballet… and I’m especially excited to share news that because 2010 marks the 90th anniversary of a famous Paris-born surrealist ballet, Le Boeuf sur le Toit (English translation: The Ox on the Roof: The Nothing-Doing Bar), T. Daniel Productions, NFP, (the Chicago Mime Company), has coordinated 2 special performances in it’s honor- one for us Chicagoans, and one in Paris on the original stage of the ballet!
The show is particularly important to T. Daniel and Laurie Willets, artistic directors and internationally-renowned Mime Artists, because they studied the art of Mime under Marcel Marceau and Etienne Decroux, two of masters of the modern art! Also, pretty cool that even though Paris is the “spiritual Home” of Mime, T. Daniel and Laurie Willets made Chicago their home base, and Marceau brought his official Paris school to Chicago, the only other city to host his school!
For all who are interested, the basic plot of the ballet is a Frenchman’s view of what an American bar would be like during Prohibition. It’s shown through a sequence of scenes based on music inspired by Brazil, a country in which the composer spent two years during World War I. The stage set is that of a bar frequented by a number of characters: a bookmaker, a dwarf, a boxer, a woman dressed in man’s clothing, a policeman, many more. If you want to check out this historical performance, head out to the Music Institute of Chicago in Evanston on November 12th or check out http://www.tdanielproductions.org for more info!
I have to admit, I don’t know much about Donnie Wahlberg, besides the fact that he was one of the members of New Kids on the Block, the supposed first ever “boy band” that ruled the music charts, and broke millions of teenager hearts across the country in the 80’s and 90s. I have heard however that his newest single, “I Got It,” (featuring Aubrey O’Day of Danity Kane) is getting a ton of buzz…. especially on twitter where I hear from him all the time! (if you aren’t following me on twitter, click here)
What I do know very well is that I am giving him a shout out for kicking off his huge tour in his #1 city of choice… chicago! It seems like a lot of tours, theatre performances, product launches,… always start in chicago and from what I hear it’s because we are a great indicator of what the rest of the country will love… we give new things credibility and great cache… and we are so emotionally responsive that we build their confidence… and all sorts of other good things you can’t find anywhere else! And I think that is pretty cool…
Anyway, in honor of Donnie making such a great location choice in which city to start in (which by the way is not only in chicago, but in my club the underground!), I am giving some tickets away to some amazing “fans” (of his, and of my facebook page), to be there for his very first live solo performance Friday 11/13 @ 9pm! Just make sure you are signed up as a “fan” of my facebook page www.facebook.billydec.com and comment right there as to why you must be there! (and hint, yes its true, I especially like to pick people who spread the good word about my fb page and this blog!)
I have to admit, I don’t know much about Donnie Wahlberg, besides the fact that he was one of the members of New Kids on the Block, the supposed first ever “boy band” that ruled the music charts, and broke millions of teenager hearts across the country in the 80’s and 90s. I have heard however that his newest single, “I Got It,” (featuring Aubrey O’Day of Danity Kane) is getting a ton of buzz…. especially on twitter where I hear from him all the time! (if you aren’t following me on twitter, click here)
What I do know very well is that I am giving him a shout out for kicking off his huge tour in his #1 city of choice… chicago! It seems like a lot of tours, theatre performances, product launches,… always start in chicago and from what I hear it’s because we are a great indicator of what the rest of the country will love… we give new things credibility and great cache… and we are so emotionally responsive that we build their confidence… and all sorts of other good things you can’t find anywhere else! And I think that is pretty cool…
Anyway, in honor of Donnie making such a great location choice in which city to start in (which by the way is not only in chicago, but in my club the underground!), I am giving some tickets away to some amazing “fans” (of his, and of my facebook page), to be there for his very first live solo performance Friday 11/13 @ 9pm! Just make sure you are signed up as a “fan” of my facebook page www.facebook.billydec.com and comment right there as to why you must be there! (and hint, yes it’s true, I especially like to pick people who spread the good word about my fb page and this blog!)
A lot of people who follow me on twitter freaked out this week when I mentioned that I liked the little kid in the movie “up!” because he was half asian like me! people couldn’t believe I was half asian? it was so crazy to me… but guess I maybe I don’t talk about it a lot out side of my asian restaurant sunda, so figured I would here, in my normal tone of celebrating chicago culture, art, entertainment, performance,… especially when for a good cause…
My mom is from the philippine islands, and not only have I visited many many times, but I still have family there. Well, as you may have been watching on the news, starting in September, the Philippines has suffered through 4 devastating typhoons that have caused immense damage to a tremendous amount of people. The first typhoon alone drenched the island with its heaviest rainfall in 40 years, and three more have hit over the past month. Needless to say, it has been a priority for me to help the struggling victims get back on their feet in my own way, which I have done through gawad kalinga (www.ancopusa.com), but wanted to share a great way for all to get involved if can locally with some amazing people and entertainment.
Some energetic, fun, and driven local Chicagoans have put together a special benefit to raise money for this cause on this Saturday, November 7th. The benefit “Kapwa” is an Arts-Infused fundraiser for Typhoon Victims in the Philippines, and should be a blast, w/drinks, food & entertainment! The event includes a Gala event and ends with a pay-what-you-can Variety Show complete with Lam Jam and the Sexy Blues Band (who come from Copenhagen where they represented Chicago for the 2016 Olympic bid!) For more info about this event, or to RSVP, email: kapwabenefit@gmail.com and lets show our support for people in need!
And for those into even more of an artistic look into my family’s Filipino community & culture, check out the 6th annual Chicago Filipino American Film Festival starting this Friday the 6th going until the 8th at portage theatre. If you hit up www.cfaff.org you can get the film lineup, view trailers and rsvp to the after parties! Mabuhay! (our way to say.. live long and prosper!)
A lot of people who follow me on twitter (if missing out, click here to follow me) freaked out this week when I mentioned that I liked the little kid in the movie “up!” because he was half asian like me! people couldn’t believe I was half asian? it was so crazy to me… but guess I maybe don’t talk about it a lot outside of my asian restaurant sunda, so figured I would here, in my normal tone of celebrating chicago culture, art, entertainment, performance… especially when for a good cause…
My mom is from the philippine islands, and not only have I visited many many times, but I still have family there. Well, as you may have been watching on the news, starting in September, the Philippines have suffered through 4 devastating typhoons that have caused immense damage to a tremendous amount of people. The first typhoon alone drenched the island with its heaviest rainfall in 40 years, and three more have hit over the past month. Needless to say, it has been a priority for me to help the struggling victims get back on their feet in my own way, which I have done through gawad kalinga (www.ancopusa.com), but wanted to share a great way for all to get involved if can locally with some amazing people and entertainment.
Some energetic, fun, and driven local Chicagoans have put together a special benefit to raise money for this cause on this Saturday, November 7th. The benefit “Kapwa” is an Arts-Infused fundraiser for Typhoon Victims in the Philippines, and should be a blast, w/drinks, food & entertainment! The event includes a Gala event and ends with a pay-what-you-can Variety Show complete with Lam Jam and the Sexy Blues Band (who come from Copenhagen where they represented Chicago for the 2016 Olympic bid!) For more info about this event, or to RSVP, email: kapwabenefit@gmail.com and lets show our support for people in need!
And for those into even more of an artistic look into my family’s Filipino community & culture, check out the 6th annual Chicago Filipino American Film Festival starting this Friday the 6th going until the 8th at portage theatre. If you hit up www.cfaff.org you can get the film lineup, view trailers and rsvp to the after parties! Mabuhay! (our way to say.. live long and prosper!)
Talent and philanthropic efforts go hand in hand in the great city of chicago… if you follow me on twitter, you know i give the behind the scenes from those efforts all the time… speaking of, tomorrow (11/5) at chicago’s historic house of blues, there is an amazing party/concert that is a great example of that, when Gavin Rossdale of the band “Bush” hosts & performs live at a super successful annual event called “dare to dream” to support pediatric cancer research!
I am a huge supporter of the effort, and give major props to gavin for coming in to throw down for it, so would like to treat some of you, my much loved readers and facebook fans, to some tickets to this amazing experience & his private vip afterparty at the underground! It’s best for the kids suffering to give the tix to whoever helps the organization the most, so go to www.facebook.billydec.com and tell me what you are doing to spread the word on twitter, fb, myspace, email,… whatever you can! (you can also tell your friends to do the same!) I will pick winners tmrw/Thurs… so check my fb then and good luck!
Talent and philanthropic efforts go hand in hand in the great city of chicago… if you follow me on twitter, you know i give the behind the scenes from those efforts all the time… speaking of, tomorrow (11/5) at chicago’s historic house of blues, there is an amazing party/concert that is a great example of that, when Gavin Rossdale of the band “Bush” hosts & performs live at a super successful annual event called “dare to dream” to support pediatric cancer research!
I am a huge supporter of the effort, and give major props to gavin for coming in to throw down for it, so would like to treat some of you, my much loved readers and facebook fans, to some tickets to this amazing experience & his private vip afterparty at the underground! It’s best for the kids suffering to give the tix to whoever helps the organization the most, so go to www.facebook.billydec.com and tell me what you are doing to spread the word on twitter, fb, myspace, email… whatever you can! (you can also tell your friends to do the same!) I will pick winners tmrw/Thurs… so check my fb then and good luck!
The holidays are here – Tis the season to make wishes come true! No organization makes that happen more often than the Make-A- Wish Foundation, which granted 702 wishes last year to terminally ill children throughout Illinois. In December, Make-A-Wish will grant close to 100 wishes alone! The organization has been fortunate to have great supporters but, like most organizations, the economy has had a direct impact on the number of wishes they are able to grant this holiday season. Make-A-Wish is extremely proud that in their 23 year history, they have never had to turn down a wish child due to lack of funds. They are all working very hard to honor that record and be able to grant 700 more wishes this coming holiday season and into 2010. Here is a great local Make-A-Wish success story with a way you can help make those wishes come true…
