The Arts Section 05/11/25: Comedian Jim Jefferies + ART Play
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.
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The Arts Section 05/04/25: CSO's Klaus Mäkelä, Comic Book Documentary + Temma Exhibit
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.
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The Arts Section 04/27/25: Dieter Gruen Documentary + Cut to the Chase Fest
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.
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The Arts Section 04/20/25: Secret Mall Apartment Doc + New American Writers Museum Program
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.
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The Arts Section 04/13/25: Kishi Bashi Partners With Chicago Philharmonic + Geoffrey Baer Interview
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.
The Arts Section spotlights creative people, events and ideas. Every week, WDCB's Gary Zidek shines a light on arts and culture in the Chicago area. The mission is to focus on stories within the arts community that aren't being told, with additional commentary and discussions on literature, music, film, food, special events and anything else creative.
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