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Shrek The Musical

Shrek The Musical

July 25-August 3, 2025

"Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek...." And thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue. Throw in a short-tempered bad guy, a cookie with an attitude and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, and you've got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily, there's one on hand... and his name is Shrek." Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film, Shrek The Musical is a Tony Award-winning fairy tale adventure, featuring all new songs from Jeanine Tesori (Thoroughly Modern Millie; Caroline, or Change) and a sidesplitting book by David Lindsay-Abaire. Shrek brings all the beloved characters you know from the film to life on stage and proves there's more to the story than meets the ears.

Puffs

Puffs

September 5-September 14, 2025

Meet Wayne Hopkins, a regular kid who suddenly finds out he’s a wizard and is off to a very special school. He’s sorted into the Puffs, the kind, loyal, and maybe a little overlooked house. Over seven wonderfully wacky years, we follow Wayne and his Puff pals, like the quirky Oliver Rivers and the fiercely loyal Megan Jones, as they navigate classes, friendships, and all sorts of hilariously chaotic events that you might recognize from a certain famous book series. Puffs is a super funny play that looks at the magical world from a brand-new, totally Puff-tastic point of view. Get ready for lots of laughter, silly spells, and a heartwarming story about what it really means to be brave, even if you’re not always in the spotlight. It’s a magical adventure that proves even the seemingly ordinary can have an extraordinary time!

Artrageous

Artrageous

September 26, 2025

Step into a world where art comes alive, colors dance, and creativity knows no bounds – welcome to the world of Artrageous! Brace yourselves for an exhilarating experience that transcends the ordinary. Picture a spectacle where music, dance, and live painting collide in a mesmerizing fusion, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats. Critics rave about Artrageous, drawing comparisons to the innovation of Blue Man Group.

Disenchanted!

Disenchanted!

October 11, 2025

Poisoned apples? Glass slippers? Who needs ‘em?! Forget everything you think you know about fairy tale princesses. In this hilarious hit musical, Snow White and her squad of royally fed-up leading ladies toss their tiaras and take the stage to set the record straight. These aren't your storybook sweethearts. they’re fierce, fed-up, and ready to sing the truth. It’s not your average fairy tale. It’s anything but Grimm.

Hey There: The Music of Rosemary Clooney

Hey There: The Music of Rosemary Clooney

October 14, 2025

Rosemary Clooney stole America’s heart with her unforgettable voice, catchy tunes, and iconic role as Betty in White Christmas. Now, Kaity Paschetto brings that same charm and crystal-clear tone to the stage in Hey There: The Music of Rosemary Clooney. Backed by a dynamic trio, Paschetto breathes new life into classics like “Mambo Italiano,” “Hey There,” “Tenderly,” and “Come On-a My House.” Enjoy a delightful afternoon of nostalgia and timeless favorites from the golden age of the ’50s and ’60s.

The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra

The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra

October 18, 2025

Straight from Savannah, Georgia, The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra brings its electrifying 18-piece big band to the ECC Arts Center stage for an unforgettable tribute to the legendary Tony Bennett. Led by lifelong friends Jeremy Davis and Clay Johnson, this dynamic ensemble Infuses Bennett’s classics with Southern charm and a contemporary flair. The performances blend jazz, swing, and storytelling, creating an engaging experience that honors Bennett’s legacy while captivating modern audiences with this high energy show.

The Lord Chamberlain's Men

The Lord Chamberlain's Men

October 24, 2025

Join The Lord Chamberlain’s Men for William Shakespeare’s greatest romantic comedy, Twelfth Night. The romantic comedy is full of mistaken identities, love triangles, and witty wordplay. When shipwrecked Viola disguises herself as a man, chaos and hilarity unfold as she navigates love, loyalty, and deception in the court of Duke Orsino. In their 21st year, The Lord Chamberlain’s Men (named after Shakespeare’s original touring company) stands as the UK’s leading all-male theatre company, bringing Shakespeare’s plays to life just as he first experienced them—performed by an all-male cast in authentic Elizabethan costume, infused with music, song, and spirited dance.

And the Winner Is: The Greatest Award-winning Songs of All Time

And the Winner Is: The Greatest Award-winning Songs of All Time

November 18, 2025

Powerhouse vocalist Lisa Rock of Close to You: The Music of the Carpenters joins forces with dynamic vocalists and music director/pianist Ken McMullen to celebrate songs that captured Tony, Grammy, Oscar, and Emmy gold. From the classic charm of “Moon River” to the sweeping emotion of “My Heart Will Go On,” “A Whole New World,” and “Evergreen,” this unforgettable concert brings to life the award-winning melodies that defined our favorite films and musicals. Relive the soundtrack of cinematic and Broadway greatness—one timeless hit at a time.

Make 'Em Laugh

Make 'Em Laugh

November 21-November 22, 2025

Get ready to smile and laugh as vocalist Tommy Hensel and special guests shine a spotlight on the playful side of Broadway in Make 'Em Laugh. This joyful tribute to musical theatre’s wittiest moments features clever classics and hidden gems from legends like Cole Porter, Stephen Sondheim, Noël Coward, and Richard Rodgers. From sharp satire to rapid-fire patter, it’s a night of smart lyrics, unexpected twists, and irresistible charm. After all, who couldn’t use a little more joy these days?

Jim Witter's Christmas Memories

Jim Witter's Christmas Memories

December 6, 2025

Experience the magic of the season as ECC Arts Center favorite Jim Witter and his incredible band transport you to Christmases past with Christmas Memories. This heartwarming holiday celebration features timeless favorites like “Winter Wonderland,” “Let There Be Peace on Earth,” “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” and more. Let Jim Witter take you on a nostalgic musical journey that rekindles the joy, wonder, and true spirit of Christmas.

Under the Streetlamp -- Hip to the Holidays

Under the Streetlamp -- Hip to the Holidays

December 12, 2025

Get ready to swing into the season with Under the Streetlamp’s electrifying holiday show, Hip to the Holidays! Featuring former stars of the Tony Award-winning musical Jersey Boys, this high-energy performance brings a fresh twist to your favorite seasonal tunes. With smooth harmonies, slick dance moves, and retro charm, the group delivers holiday classics and doo-wop hits with a cool, contemporary vibe. It's a joyous celebration that blends nostalgia with show-stopping talent, perfect for getting you and your family in the holiday spirit.

Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo

Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo

January 31, 2026

The world’s foremost gender-skewing comic ballet, Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo is an all-male ballet company famous for its humorous and highly skilled performances of classical ballet. In over 50 years of dazzling audiences, the Trocks parodies traditional ballet in a way that both honors the art form and playfully critiques its conventions. Whether you’ve been a devoted fan for decades or just discovered the Trocks, they embrace anyone who appreciates their unique blend of satire, slapstick, and superb technique.

Jo Ann Daugherty Trio and Bruce Henry present: Groove Sessions

Jo Ann Daugherty Trio and Bruce Henry present: Groove Sessions

March 6-March 7, 2026

One stage. Four genres. Endless vibes. Step into a night of smooth grooves, heartfelt lyrics, and unforgettable melodies. Groove Sessions brings together the timeless sounds of pop, country, soul, and jazz in one electrifying cabaret experience. Featuring hits such as the vintage soul of “Stand By Me,” the jazz/pop bounce of “Mornin’,” the country-tinged longing of “Wichita Lineman,” and the tender ache of “I Can’t Stop Loving You,” this show is a genre-blending celebration of songs that shaped generations. Vocalist Bruce Henry (“bell-pure voice” – Miami Herald) and pianist Jo Ann Daugherty (“★★★★” – Downbeat) have each performed around the world and have joined forces on stages such as the City Winery, Winter’s Jazz Club, the Promontory, Hyde Park Jazz Festival, and more.

Switchback

Switchback

March 17, 2026

Switchback, the dynamic, award-winning duo of Marty McCormack (vocals, bass) and Brian FitzGerald (vocals, guitar, mandolin), has been captivating audiences worldwide with their distinctive fusion of American roots and Celtic soul. With decades of experience on stage, they craft a rich, genre-defying sound that resonates deeply with listeners across generations and cultures. The duo’s journey began over 30 years ago at Durty Nellie's, a Palatine bar, where their shared passion for Irish heritage and Midwestern musical traditions sparked a lifelong collaboration.

Uptown

Uptown

March 21, 2026

Fusing Bruno Mars-caliber stage presence with top-tier vocals and wall-to-wall choreography, the men of UPTOWN combine the smooth stylings of R&B with the fresh hits of today in a unique and modern show that gets every crowd on their feet! Born in New York City, the epicenter of contemporary pop and soul music, the group exudes unparalleled energy with their blend of contemporary radio hits and classic Motown music. Every single member of UPTOWN is a world-class soloist, with frequent comparisons to the artistry of icons like Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye.

Las Cafeteras

Las Cafeteras

March 27, 2026

From Afro-Mexican to Americana, from Soul to Son Jarocho, from Roots to Rock and Hip Hop, Las Cafeteras are a sonic explosion of Afro-Mexican rhythms, electronic beats, and powerful rhymes that document stories of a community seeking to “build a world where many worlds fit.” The band has shared the stage with Mexican icons Café Tacuba, Natalia LaFourcade, and Lila Downs, along with the Gipsy Kings, Columbian superstar Juanes, musical artist, actor, and Chicago native Common, Los Lobos, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra.

If I Had a Hammer: The Heart of Folk Music

If I Had a Hammer: The Heart of Folk Music

April 7, 2026

Celebrate the voices that defined a movement and the songs that inspired a generation. Lisa Rock of Close to You: The Music of the Carpenters and world-class vocalists join an acoustic band to honor the golden age of folk. Hear iconic hits like Woody Guthrie’s anthemic “This Land is Your Land,” Joni Mitchell’s poetic “Both Sides Now,” Pete Seeger’s stirring “If I Had a Hammer,” and Peter, Paul and Mary’s beloved “Puff the Magic Dragon,” and more in this heartfelt tribute to the music that sparked hope, change, and unity.

Luca Stricagnoli

Luca Stricagnoli

April 10, 2026

With over 200 million views on his music videos, Luca Stricagnoli has earned a reputation as one of the most innovative and distinctive guitarists in the world. Hailing from Italy, this acoustic fingerstyle virtuoso consistently stuns audiences with his high-energy, visually captivating performances. Stricagnoli’s playing is anything but conventional. He incorporates violin bows, performs on multiple guitars simultaneously, uses his feet, and employs modified capos and alternate tunings. His setlists are as diverse as his technique, spanning rock, pop, movie soundtracks, hip-hop, and a mix of inventive arrangements and original compositions.