Will County Gazette

The Village of Park Forest is set to host "Reimagining Cabaret – The Genres Explored," as part of its continuing Reimagining Cabaret concert series. This event will take place at the Nathan Manilow Theatre at Freedom Hall on Saturday, May 10 at 7:30 p.m. The theatre, located at 410 Lakewood Boulevard in Park Forest, Illinois, serves as a prominent venue in Chicago's south suburbs and can accommodate 287 guests.

Cultural Arts Supervisor Victor Blackful stated that tickets are currently on sale, with prices ranging from $30 to $55. He noted that the concert has received positive feedback from several media outlets. "The Chicago Sun-Times hailed the experience as 'incredible singing, scatting, snapping, and dramatic flair,' leaving audiences 'rapt from start to finish.'"

Victor Blackful emphasized the significance of hosting this performance in Park Forest. "This is the first time this show has been this far south in the southland," said Blackful. "This vibrant concert experience will continue its mission of reintroducing audiences to the timeless tradition of cabaret—through the soul-stirring sounds of jazz, rhythm and blues, classical, musical theatre, and more. And it's all happening right here in Park Forest."

The production was created, produced, and directed by Lynn Colbert-Jones, Managing Director of Black Voices in Cabaret and the recipient of the 2024 Chicago BroadwayWorld Award for Best Cabaret/Concert/Solo Performance. Blackful highlighted that the event aims to "honor the genre's roots and push its boundaries.” The concert will feature Theodis Rodgers, Jr. as music director and Margaret Murphy-Webb as emcee, promising an evening of engaging musical presentation.

For additional details and ticket purchases, prospective attendees can visit a specified website.