Submit your artwork here – https://nancymerkling.com/4th-
$850 in cash prizes.
Questions? Connect here – we are happy to help – https://nancymerkling.com/
<Crystal Lake>, IL – September 6, 2022 – Celebrated author, speaker, and cultural anthropologist, Rich Benjamin, joins Raue Center on October 14, 2022, at 7 pm for “The Divided States of America: Big National Transformations, Small Towns” a special presentation and moderated Q&A discussing his personal experiences engaging with communities in small-town America and his deft observations of modern society, culture, and politics with a goal toward building understanding and openness.
” It’s important for us to have honest conversations on Race,” Raue Center’s executive director, Richard Kuranda. “It helps us move forward. Over the last 5 years, we have opened our eyes to the power of a community wanting to confront the ugly truth that racism does exist here. Hopefully, this discussion will help further that conversation in McHenry County.”
Rich Benjamin is a political analyst, a cultural anthropologist, a speaker, an author. Benjamin’s cultural and political analysis appears regularly in The New York Times, The New Yorker, The Guardian, The New York Times Sunday Book Review, and National Public Radio (NPR). His scholarly research has received support from Rockefeller Foundation, the Ford Foundation, the Russell Sage Foundation, Brown University, and the National Endowment for the Humanities. Benjamin was recently a Fellow in the literary arts at the Bellagio Center (Italia), Rockefeller Foundation. Rich has a BA in English and political science from Wesleyan University and a Ph.D. in Modern Thought and Literature from Stanford University. He sits on the Board of Trustees of the Authors Guild, the national union of writers that has been protecting authors’ rights and free speech since 1912.
He is the author of “Searching for Whitopia: An Improbable Journey to the Heart of White America” selected as an Editor’s Choice by Booklist and The American Library Association (2009). This groundbreaking study is one of few to have illuminated in advance the rise of white anxiety and white nationalism in contemporary public US life. Barbara Ehrenreich, the author of Nickel and Dimed, calls Searching for Whitopia, “A daring feat of the 21st Century exploration that will have you laughing and shuddering at the same time.” The book is now in its second printing. He is currently at work on a new book, Talk to Me.
“I believe that adaptation requires openness. It requires a willingness to understand others, a willingness to understand oneself. And I believe in that willingness comes an openness to change.” – Rich Benjamin
Don’t miss this timely discussion, “The Divided States of America: Big National Transformations, Small Towns,” with one of America’s finest scholars. Moderated by James Knight. Tickets are $20. Student discount is available. For tickets or more information visit rauecenter.org or call Raue Box Office at 815.356.9212.
About Raue Center For The Arts
Raue Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of all through the arts. For 20 years, they have provided quality programming – striving to make it pertinent, available, and affordable to all. As a painstakingly restored, 1920s regional showcase theatre named for its benefactor—Lucile Raue—Raue Center has attracted the finest stars, Broadway shows, musicians and artists. Named on the League of Historic American Theatres, Raue Center is one of the nation’s finest examples of restored art and decor. The 750-seat theatre, located in historic downtown Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a gathering place for our region’s citizens and has become a true destination.
For additional information, visit rauecenter.org, facebook.com/RaueCenter, and twitter.com/RaueCenter.
[Crystal Lake, IL] – August 31, 2022 – Raue Center School For The Arts creates a welcoming place where students of all ages can let their creativity soar. Now offering classes for students of all ages—from 18 months to 18 years. Adults too!
Raue Center School For The Arts (RCSA) announces Broadway Baby running September 5 through December 12, 2022 (off the week of Thanksgiving) on Tuesdays from 10:00 am-10:45 am. Broadway Baby is a fun discovery class for your little mover (ages 18 to 36 months) to explore music, storytelling, and movement. Sign up for the full 14 weeks ($210) or drop in per class ($15/class).
Tiny Tunes (ages 3 & 4) is a new 45-minute class full of songs, rhymes, rhythm, coordination, imagination, and FUN. Bring your dance and music-loving kid in for their first taste of theatre. Each class will have time for music, dancing, and storytelling. The class runs September 5 through December 12, 2022 (off the week of Thanksgiving), Tuesdays or Wednesdays from 1:00 pm-1:45 pm. Sign up for the full 14 weeks ($210) or drop in per class ($15/class).
The littlest stars get to shine in Little Stage Stars (ages 5 to 7). This six-week class is full of fun theatrical play, creative movement, and skill-building theatre games to help students explore their own creativity and talents. This class culminates in an open class where parents and families can observe the students at play, and even be treated to a “mini-showcase”! Class runs September 13 through October 18, Tuesdays from 4:00 pm-4:45 pm. Tuition is $150 per student (RaueNOWFamily Price: $112.50).
Our popular intro to acting series, Ready, Set, Act! (ages 7 to 12), uses theatre games and creative play techniques to help bring students out of their shells and teach them the basics of theatre. In classes tailored to the unique needs of each age group, our staff of working theatre professionals offers individualized attention and encouragement as students hone their skills and learn tips and tricks from the best. Each class section runs for six weeks and culminates in a showcase on the Raue Center stage! Tuition is $200 per student (RaueNOWFamily Price: $150).
In addition to introductory classes, RCSA is proud to offer several pre-professional classes as well. Acting II: Scene Study (ages 13 & up) is a new class for those actors who are ready to advance their skills and build stronger connections to text and character. Using the techniques of Uta Hagen, students will take a deeper dive into character relationships and learn to use their impulses to create dynamic scenes. The class culminates in a showcase on the Raue Center stage on the last day of class! Class runs September 12 through October 20, Mondays & Wednesdays from 4:00 pm-5:30 pm. Tuition is $250 per student (RaueNOW Family Price: $187.50).
Raue Center For The Arts is excited to offer a new all-encompassing class aptly named Musical Theater T³: Triple Threat for Teens with instructor Robin Irwin! Musical Theater combines singing, acting, and dancing to create a uniquely American form of stage magic. Musical Theater T³ will consist of 3 classes a week: an acting class, a song interpretation class, and a fully staged/choreographed number. The class will conclude with a showcase of the student’s work. These sessions provide individual training for each student in a variety of musical theatre styles and acting techniques all presented in a supportive and collaborative atmosphere. Class runs Mondays, Tuesdays & Thursdays from 6:00 pm-7:30 pm, September 12-26. Tuition is $375 per student (RaueNOW Family Price: $281.25).
Youth Musical Theatre Ensemble is back by popular demand! YMTE focuses on a vocal technique that expands beyond solo singing into small and large group ensemble singing. The group will work on multiple songs that will feature all members in some way, with a final performance at the end of the session. Students in this class will also join Jane Lynch, Kate Flannery, Tim Davis, and the Tony Guerrero Quintet in “A Swingin’ Christmas” for special performances on Raue Center’s stage at 8 pm on Saturday, December 10th and 1 pm on Sunday, December 11th! YMTE rehearses October 10 through December 6, Tuesdays from 6:30 pm-8:00 pm. Tuition is $350 per student (RaueNOW Family Price: $262.50).
RCSA is proud to introduce Song and Story: An Adult Musical Theatre Intensive for our adults! This fun-filled course will allow adult students to experience the joys of storytelling through song. We believe that growing in the arts and growing as a human being are synonymous and this intensive allows adult students to explore that magical moment when a scene becomes a song. The class will culminate in a cabaret-style showcase where you can strut your stuff. Why should the kids have all the fun? Class runs Mondays from 7:30 pm-9:00 pm, September 12-26. Tuition is $100 per student (RaueNOW Family Price: $75).
Risk. Explore. Create. Visit https://www.rauecenter.org/education/.
Become a RaueNOW Family Member and get early access and 25% off all classes and workshops! For more information on enrollment, discounts, and financial aid visit rauecenter.org/education or email rcsaeducation@rauecenter.org.
About Raue Center For The Arts
Raue Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of all through the arts. For 20 years, they have provided quality programming – striving to make it pertinent, available, and affordable. As a painstakingly restored, 1920s regional showcase theatre named for its benefactor—Lucile Raue—Raue Center has attracted the finest stars, Broadway shows, musicians and artists. Named on the League of Historic American Theatres, Raue Center is one of the nation’s finest examples of restored art and decor. The 750-seat theatre, located in historic downtown Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a gathering place for our region’s citizens and has become a true destination.
More information and tickets are available by visiting www.rauecenter.org or by calling the box office at (815) 356-9212. For additional information, visit rauecenter.org, facebook.com/RaueCenter, and twitter.com/RaueCenter.
Raue Center For The Arts kicked off its second annual outdoor summer series ARTS ON THE GREEN at Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church, 210 McHenry Ave in Crystal Lake Saturday, July 9th at 7 pm with resident artists Bourbon Country!
Featuring Randy Leggee, Jody and Paul Fields, and Wade Frazier, Bourbon Country delighted the crowd with a blend of country and rock music.
Bourbon Country will appear in multiple engagements at Raue Center For The Arts during the 2022-23 season as its Artists in Residence.
For more information and tickets visit rauecenter.org
Photos by Todd Heintz Photography
Raue Center For The Arts hosts a vibrant dance show in Chicago featuring a dynamic classical dance form from India. All are invited to support a beautiful cultural experience on August 6th at 5:00 pm.
Artistic Director, Shri Prashant Shah, a senior disciple of Padma Bhushan Smt. Kumudini Lakhia is one of the very few critically acclaimed male performers. Born and raised in India and now a US citizen, Prashant feels honored to be the first recipient of the SANGEET NATAK AKADEMI YUVA PURASKAR [ National award ] established by the President of India.
Prashant’s unique creative and aesthetical approach in his traditional and experimental presentations of Kathak as a soloist and as a choreographer, has earned him a place in the prestigious empaneled list of ‘ESTABLISHED ARTIST’ category in ICCR (Indian Council for Cultural Relations) and also a TOP grade artiste of Indian Television artists panel. Prashant is regularly commissioned by international choreographers to create collaborative works of Kathak with other dance styles like Hip Hop, Belly Dancing, Flamenco, Bharat Natyam, Modern and Contemporary as a dancer & choreographer all over Europe, North America & Asia. Prashant has performed extensively all across the globe where his performances are appreciated and acclaimed by both, critics and connoisseurs.
Prashant will be accompanied by his Company Dancers from across the country. The Company has performed at several prestigious venues in the US including Carnegie Hall and The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
Click Here for tickets or visit rauecenter.org.
photo by Todd Heintz Photography
<Crystal Lake>, IL – July 6, 2022 –Great entertainment is back and in your backyard, McHenry County! Raue Center For The Arts is excited to announce the second annual ARTS ON THE GREEN outdoor series at Saint Mary’s Episcopal Church at 210 McHenry Ave in Crystal Lake! Enjoy music and live entertainment in the great outdoors this summer!
Join us for the award-winning singer-songwriter, and Catfood Records original recording artist Derrick Procell at Arts On The Green on August 6, 2022, @ 7 pm for the release of his latest album “Hello Mojo!” Listen to the best of Rock, Blues, and Soul!
Originally from Milwaukee, Derrick Procell is a sought-after frontman, vocalist, and musician performing as a solo artist, with his band Derrick Procell and the Redeemers, and with Soundtracks of a Generation. An incredible singer and songwriter, Derrick’s songs have been recorded by The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, Logan Daniels, and Melissa Manchester. You have heard Derrick’s songs on My Name is Earl, TrueBlood, Criminal Minds, Boston Legal, Saving Grace, The Office, True Blood, King of the Hill, and the Oscar-nominated film, Lady Bird. Check out his latest album “Hello Mojo”
Linda Cain of Chicago Blues Guide calls Procell’s music “a treasure trove of richly detailed story-songs that immerse the listener in the blues experience from the Delta to Chicago and beyond. Blues fans around the world seeking smart, powerful modern blues songs that honor the legacy of the genre’s masters will find it here.”
Tickets for Raue’s Arts On The Green start at $20. Student (18 & under) tickets are $8.
For more information visit rauecenter.org/covid/ For questions or concerns, please contact our Box Office at 815-356-9212.
About Raue Center For The Arts
Raue Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of all through the arts. For 20 years, they have provided quality programming – striving to make it pertinent, available, and affordable to all. As a painstakingly restored, 1920s regional showcase theatre named for its benefactor—Lucile Raue—Raue Center has attracted the finest stars, Broadway shows, musicians and artists. Named on the League of Historic American Theatres, Raue Center is one of the finest examples of restored art and decor in the nation. The 750-seat theatre, located in historic downtown Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a gathering place for our region’s citizens and has become a true destination.
For additional information, visit rauecenter.org, facebook.com/RaueCenter, and twitter.com/RaueCenter.
<Crystal Lake>, IL – July 7, 2022 – Raue Center For The Arts is excited to announce a unique and unforgettable tribute experience at its second annual Arts On The Green at St. Mary’s! Don’t miss great entertainment in the great outdoors with Tina Naponelli in “Tapestry Unraveled: The Music of Carole King” at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Jul 16, 2022
“This show will send audiences home knowing more background about the history of Carole King’s music,” says Raue Center Board President Tim Paul. “Tina Naponelli brings out all the memories with each Carole King song she performs. Along with her Musical Director Evan Swanson, Tina is superb in her interpretation of this iconic music.”
Hailed as one of the most successful and talented female pop artists, King has carved out an iconic place in music history. King began her rise to the music hall of fame as the songwriter of classics like “Will You Love Me Tomorrow (The Shirelles) and “Take Good Care of My Baby” (Bobby Vee). In 1971, King’s solo album “Tapestry” launched her to the top of the charts with hits like “I Feel the Earth Move” and “Natural Woman,” winning her four Grammy Awards for Best Record, Song and Album of the Year, as well as Best Pop Vocal Performance, Female Honors.
With her powerful voice and soulful dedication, Naponelli has captured the true essence of King in this unique and unforgettable tribute experience. Backed by a bold five-piece band, Naponelli pays homage to the iconic Queen of Pop with impressive renditions of “I Feel the Earth Move,” “Chains” and “You’ve Got a Friend” from King’s “Tapestry” album as well as other favorites.
A Crystal Lake native, Naponelli is no stranger to the entertainment industry. She is a proud graduate of North Central College, where she studied theatre performance. Since graduating, Naponelli has created successful cabarets in tribute to Sara Bareilles and hits from the kings and queens of the music industry. She has also gone on to be a part of several theatrical productions, with recent theatre credits including “Tomorrow Morning” (Kokandy Productions), “Beehive” and “Suds: The Rocking 60’s Musical” (Williams Street Repertory), “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “Columbinus 2.0” (American Theater Company).
Tickets start at $20 and may be purchased online at rauecenter.org or via the Box Office at 815.356.9212 or at 26 N. Williams Street in downtown Crystal Lake.
About Raue Center For The Arts
Raue Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of all through the arts. For 20 years, they have provided quality programming – striving to make it pertinent, available, and affordable to all. As a painstakingly restored, 1920s regional showcase theatre named for its benefactor—Lucile Raue—Raue Center has attracted the finest stars, Broadway shows, musicians and artists. Named on the League of Historic American Theatres, Raue Center is one of the finest examples of restored art and decor in the nation. The 750-seat theatre, located in historic downtown Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a gathering place for our region’s citizens and has become a true destination.
For additional information, visit rauecenter.org, facebook.com/RaueCenter, and twitter.com/RaueCenter.
photo by Todd Heintz Photography
Crystal Lake, IL | June 15, 2022
Raue Center School For The Arts is thrilled to announce the casts of RCSA On Stage! summer productions “Seussical Kids” and “Seussical Jr.” Based on the beloved works of Theodor Seuss Geisel, more commonly known as Dr. Seuss, “Seussical” tells the story of Horton the Elephant, who discovers a speck of dust containing tiny people called the Whos. Horton must protect the Whos from a world of naysayers and dangers. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family, and community are challenged and emerge triumphant!
Although “Seussical Kids” and “Seussical Jr.” follow identical storylines, the productions feature different casts. At only 30 minutes long, “Seussical Kids” is the perfect show for families looking for an introduction to live performance and features a cast of RCSA students ages 7-10. “Seussical Jr” runs approximately 60 minutes and features a cast of students ages 12 and up. Either production is guaranteed to have you dancing in your seats with multi-genre-infused musical theatre scores, imaginative set, and vibrant costumes.
At the helm of both productions are RCSA instructors Billy Seger as Director/Choreographer, Alayna DeVar as Music Director, and Savannah Thomas as Assistant Director/Stage Manager. Emily Ostrowski and Becca Robertson step into Stage Manager and Costume Designer roles after leading the first two weeks of RCSA’s new summer program, Camp RCSA. Director of Production Jarrod Bainter takes the lead on the productions’ technical elements in tandem with Raue Center production staff members Caroline Arana and Commedore Clark. Both productions are produced by Jessica Urban and Kyle Schneider, with Raue Center CEO Richard Kuranda serving as Artistic Director.
“It’s so wonderful to see the new program come to life with so many kids! The team has done a fantastic job at our new home of St Mary’s,” Kuranda said. “We consider ourselves lucky to have been invited in. I’m looking forward to seeing both shows!”
“Seussical Kids” runs July 8, 2022, at 7 pm, and July 9, 2022, at 1 pm and 4 pm. Tickets are $15 for adults and $7 for Students. RaueNOW Members receive a 30% discount on tickets. Some restrictions may apply. “Seussical Jr.” runs July 15, 2022, at 7 pm, and July 16, 2022, at 1 pm and 4 pm. Tickets are $20 for adults and $7 for Students. RaueNOW Members receive a 30% discount on tickets. Some restrictions may apply. For more information, please visit rauecenter.org.
Details:
“Seussical Kids” Cast:
Cat In the Hat – Penny Kim
Thing 1 – Faye Radeni
Thing 2 – Aubrey Williams
Jojo – Allison Wightman
Horton the Elephant – Bobby Schaefer
Gertrude McFuzz – Kennedy Onopa
Mayzie LaBird – Ayla Dempsey
Mr. Mayor – Tyler Sullivan
Mrs. Mayor – Adelaide Daczewitz
Sour Kangaroo – Audrey Molter
Young Kangaroo – Kara Molter
Bird Girls – Maisie Miceli, Ava Richer, & Blakely Voight
Wickershams – Samantha Erwin, Fiona Miceli, & Adeline Morson
Talk Show Host & Judge Yertle the Turtle – John Robert Hull
Vlad Vladikov & Marshal – Frank Truscott
“Seussical Jr.” Cast:
Cat In the Hat – Olivia Zak
Jojo – Noah Rea
Horton the Elephant – Joshua Annen
Gertrude McFuzz – Emma McBreen
Mayzie LaBird – Claire Reitz
Mr. Mayor – Derek Walker
Mrs. Mayor – Addyson Rebman
Sour Kangaroo – Sydney Sullivan
Young Kangaroo – Elin Kaye
Bird Girls – Emma Hartwig, Kendra Heidtke, Emma Kim, & Lila Stewart
Wickershams – Ellie Coughlin, Paige Montanye, Maddie Olszewski, & Catherine Rea
The Grinch & Others – Izzabella Jorenby-Behling
Vlad Vladikov & Others – William Burke
Judge Yertle the Turtle & Others – Mia Clifford
Production & Design Team:
Director/Choreographer: Billy Seger
Musical Director: Alayna DeVar
Assistant Director: Savannah Thomas
Lighting Designer: Jarrod Bainter
Costume Designer: Becca Robertson
Sound Designer:
Scenic Designer and Artist:
Props Master:
PSM: Emily Ostrowski
ASM: Savannah Thomas
Director of Production: Jarrod Bainter
Producer: Jess Urban
Producer: Kyle Schneider
Artistic Director: Richard Kuranda
Ticket Options:
Seussical Kids (30 min adaptation) Ticket Price:
Standard Adult: $15
Standard Student: $7
*RaueNOW Membership Adult: $10.50
*RaueNOW Membership Student: $4.90
Seussical Jr. (60 min adaptation) Ticket Price:
Standard Adult: $20
Standard Student: $7
*RaueNOW Membership Adult: $14
*RaueNOW Membership Student: $4.90
Individual RaueNOW and RaueNOW Family Memberships start at just $60. Each membership tier comes with a unique set of benefits, but all members enjoy the following:
For more information, contact James Knight at 815.356.9010 x 14 or email jknight@rauecenter.org.
*Certain fees & exclusions may apply. Ticket prices may vary according to zone and membership status.
Location: Raue Center For The Arts
26 N. Williams Street
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
rauecenter.org
Box Office: 815.356.9212 | 2 pm to 4 pm, Tuesdays – Fridays | Closed Saturday, Sunday, and Monday | Open 1 hour
prior to scheduled performances.
About Raue Center For The Arts
Raue Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of all through the arts. For 20 years, they have provided quality programming – striving to make it pertinent, available, and affordable to all. As a painstakingly restored, 1920s regional showcase theatre named for its benefactor—Lucile Raue—Raue Center has attracted the finest stars, Broadway shows, musicians and artists. Named on the League of Historic American Theatres, Raue Center is one of the finest examples of restored art and decor in the nation. The 750-seat theatre, located in historic downtown Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a gathering place for our region’s citizens and has become a true destination.
For additional information, visit rauecenter.org, facebook.com/RaueCenter, and twitter.com/RaueCenter.
Submit your artwork here – https://nancymerkling.com/4th-
$900 in cash prizes.
Questions? Connect here – we are happy to help – https://nancymerkling.com/
Raue Center For The Arts had a wonderful turnout at their 4th Annual 6×6 PROJECT Art Reception
Thank you to everyone who came out for this event. It was so wonderful to see (and meet) many of the artists. Thank you to all the families and friends who also came out to support the artists who participated this year. A warm thank you to all the volunteers and the 6×6 PROJECT team and THANK YOU to everyone who bid on the art!
If you didn’t have a winning bid, consider making a general donation to Raue Center’s educational programs or even become a RaueNOW member if you aren’t already. For everyone who does have a winning bid(s), the art will start shipping out by June 30. You will receive an email soon.
To view the 6×6 Project 2022 Digital Program, click HERE.
photos by Michele V. Knight
