It's Showtime with Rikki Lee

Chicago’s The Annoyance Theatre has a history of creating iconic comedic gems that audiences can’t get enough of. Over the years the company has been home to such long-running hits as “Co-Ed Prison Sluts”, “Shark Tank the Musical”, and “The Real Live Brady Bunch”. A new comedy “The Little Orphan Boy” is promising to be the next big thing at The Annoyance. A musical parody of all orphans alone in the world making good stories such as “Annie”, “Oliver”, and “James and the Giant Peach”, this wacky comedic delight was such a hit that it's already on its second run and plans are in the works to bring it back again! Find out why! On this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, cast members Chris Dritsas, Andrew Freeland, and Zach Hacker join host Rikki Lee Travolta to describe what is making this show so popular! In addition to being in the cast, Chris and Zach are also co-writers of the script, with music by John Love. “The Little Orphan Boy” plays at The Annoyance Theatre in Chicago every Saturday through May 25, 2024. For tickets visit www.TheAnnoyance.com.

Sarah Sapperstein is a premier leading lady in Chicago’s vibrant fine arts community. She has appeared in over 100 Chicago-area theatre, musical theatre, opera, and cabaret productions since transplanting to the Windy City. On this episode of It's Showtime with Rikki Lee, the Life and Times Heartstrings Award-winning actress sits down with host Rikki Lee Travolta to explore her story as an artist. It’s a thought-provoking investigation that includes how she got her start, her approach to character development, and what attracts her to a project. One area they also explore is how she is able to work in such diverse musical styles as musical theatre, opera, and rock opera. Of great importance in their talk is being true to yourself including when embracing nontraditional casting opportunities. It's a fascinating interview with the star of such projects as Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Doubt, Ragtime, Music Man, Into the Woods, Cabaret, and Jesus Christ Superstar. Take this opportunity to get to know the human side of one of Chicago's top talents.

"Steel Magnolias" is an American comedy-drama play about a group of women who congregate at the local hair salon in the south – Louisiana to be specific. It opened Off-Broadway in 1987 and had a star-studded film adaptation in 1989 featuring Julia Roberts, Sally Field, Shirley MacLaine, Olympia Dukakis, Dolly Parton, and Daryl Hannah. Director Pat Henderson is now staging a dynamic production of "Steel Magnolias" at Steel Beam Theatre in St. Charles, IL. Featuring some of the Chicago suburbs strongest talents, the production manages to succeed as both a gripping tear-jerker and a playful comedy. "Steel Magnolias" runs Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at Steel Beam Theatre through May 12. For tickets visit www.SteelBeamTheatre.com. On this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, host Rikki Lee Travolta is joined by director Pat Henderson and two of the stars of "Steel Magnolias" – Alexus Buford and Julie Utrup-O’Nan. The group discusses what goes into casting and producing a production like this, the character development process, and why this powerful interpretation of "Steel Magnolias" is going to be so rewarding to audiences.

Texas is known for its barbecue and prime meats. Celebrity chef Robbie Shoults of Bear Creek Smokehouse in East Texas is a key example of why. Robbie is the third-generation owner of Bear Creek Smokehouse. He has been featured on the TODAY show and Rachel Ray. He is a five-time guest judge on The Food Network’s Beat Bobby Flay. His recipes have been featured on Yahoo.com, Taste of Home, The Food Network, and Meat + Poultry. In short, Robbie knows his way around the kitchen. Beyond being just a great cook and popular television personality, Robbie Shoults is an astute businessman. He has put the family smokehouse business on the map with the addition of a General Store that attracts shoppers from all over area. Online shoppers are just as ravenous in shopping for Bear Creek’s signature smoked meats and other delicacies and delights. On this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, Robbie discusses the many attributes of Bear Creek Smokehouse, its online store, specialty holiday smoked turkeys, and the Cottage at the Creek five-star vacation property. For more information on Robbie Shoults and Bear Creek Smokehouse visit www.BearCreekSmokehouse.com. And don’t forget to pick up a copy of Robbie’s cookbook: Bear Bottom Bliss featuring 80 years of family recipes.

Taking a well-known story and presenting it from an alternative point of view can result in great entertainment. For its current production, Idle Muse Theater is presenting the original play "What the Weird Sisters Saw", an adaptation of William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth”- as told from the perspective of the story’s witches. On this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, artistic director Evan Jackson sits down with host Rikki Lee Travolta to discuss the Idle Muse “graphic novel on stage” approach to theatre, the core actors that make up the company’s talented ensemble, and the current production of “What the Weird Sisters Saw” playing through April 14, 2024 at The Edge Off-Broadway. It’s a very fun and informative half-hour getting to know one of Chicago’s premier theatre troupes and the process of reimagining the classics. For tickets to “What the Weird Sisters Saw” visit www.IdleMuse.org or call the box office at (773) 340-9438.

“Jersey Boys” – the stage musical dramatization of the story of the popular singing group The Four Seasons – took Broadway by storm in 2005. It went on to win the Tony Award for Best Musical and ran for over a decade. It’s the story of four working-class youths from New Jersey who used talent and determination to make it in the world as singing sensations. With such hits as “Sherry”, “Big Girls Don’t Cry”, “Walk Like a Man” and “Oh What a Night”, they achieved immortality via worldwide fame. “Chicago is kind of like New Jersey,” notes L. Walter Stearns – one of the two co-directors of a brand-new production of “Jersey Boys” at Mercury Theater in Chicago. Stearns points this out in reference to how the Mercury Theater production is the first in Chicago to originate in Chicago with Chicago talent. On this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, Stearns and co-director Brenda Didier share the process of developing this homegrown interpretation of the Broadway hit for Chicago audiences. They share casting details and how they went about creating the look and sound of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Didier and Stearns are two of the most decorated directors in Chicago theatre. In addition, Stearns is the executive director of the Mercury Theater. The production stars Jason Michael Evans (Nick Massi), Andrew MacNaughton (Bob Gaudio), Michael Metcalf (Frankie Valli) and Adrian Aguilar (Tommy DeVito). Much to their credit, one point both directors agree on is to value the input of all the members of the production team and then pick the best options to pursue. Captained by host Rikki Lee Travolta, this episode is an incredible opportunity to learn from two of the city’s top creative talents. “Jersey Boys” is scheduled through May 19, 2024. For tickets visit www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com or call the box office at (773) 360-7365. And – for additional insights into the Chicagoland theater world, visit our sister internet publications www.LifeandTimes.biz – your guilty pleasure for entertainment news, views, and reviews.

On this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, heralded director Elizabeth Swanson joins host Rikki Lee Travolta to discuss “A Streetcar Named Desire” running through April 21, 2024, as a part of Paramount Theatre’s BOLD Series in downtown Aurora, just outside Chicago. Swanson, who recently completed tenure as the artistic director of BoHo Theatre, co-directs the American classic with Paramount artistic director Jim Corti. During the interview, Swanson describes working with the Chicago theatre legend and the process of bringing Tennessee Williams’ most famous work to Paramount’s Copley Theatre. Corti and Swanson have not taken a passive approach with “A Streetcar Named Desire.” The interpretation Swanson describes has the exciting potential to be a game-changer and truly historic. One of Chicago’s premier directing talents, Swanson explains the path that brought them to this point in their career. Swanson also relates how those experiences flavor and influence their approach to helming a production. They especially go into detail on how they collaborated with Corti and a cast that includes Amanda Drinkall, Casey Hoekstra, and television’s Alina Taber to create characters that are true to the text yet fresh, impactful, and perhaps even genius. Order tickets now to what promises to be an emotionally moving and thought-provoking roller coaster of angst, passion, love, lust, hopes, sorrows, and struggles for power. This show will be the stuff of legends. For tickets call the box office at (630) 896-6666 or visit www.ParamountAurora.com.

Alcoholism is a powerful subject. As the backdrop for movies like "A Star is Born", "Leaving Las Vegas", and "Barfly", it is apparent that alcoholism can make for vivid storytelling. Alcoholics Anonymous is an organization that has saved the lives of millions of addicts by helping them to get and stay sober. "Bill W and Dr. Bob" is a renowned play coming to Chicago that captures on stage the very start of AA – as two alcoholics come together to support each other and then offer that support out into the world for all others who want to get sober. On this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, actor and director Ronnie Marmo joins host Rikki Lee Travolta to discuss what is expected to be a big hit in Chicago: "Bill W. and Dr. Bob." The show opens March 7 and is playing at the Biograph Theater in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood. In addition, on his nights off, Ronnie is also appearing in the smash hit “I’m Not a Comedian….I’m Lenny Bruce” under the direction of Joe Mantegna. The two must-see plays are running in repertoire at the Biograph Theater. It’s a fascinating episode with lots of great insights into the torments of addiction, the saving grace of AA, and the brilliance of entertainment. Ronnie Marmo has a lot of interesting things to discuss about bringing these two hit shows to Chicago – so be sure to listen. For tickets to “Bill W. and Dr. Bob" go to www.BillWandDrBobOnStage.com For tickets to “I’m Not a Comedian…I’m Lenny Bruce” go to www.LennyBruceOnStage.com. We also encourage you to read our sister publication LifeandTimes.biz – your guilty pleasure for entertainment news, views, and reviews.

Katy Sullivan is a Tony-nominated actress who took the Great White Way by storm with her performance in “Cost of Living”. In addition to her Tony nomination, she was also nominated for the Lucille Lortel Award, Drama League Award, and Outer Critics Circle Award. Now, the Paralympic athlete stars in Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s legendary production of “Richard III.” It is a performance that has earned rave reviews. Life and Times calls Sullivan a “force of nature” and labels the production “an epic of the highest quality.” On a new episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, Katy sits down with host Rikki Lee Travolta to discuss her career, her starring role in Richard III, and some of the unique challenges that face disabled actors. To make reservations to see Katy Sullivan in Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s riveting production of “Richard III” visit www.ChicagoShakes.com or call the box office at (312) 595-5600.

When it comes to dream jobs, it doesn’t get much better than rockstar. Ari Kamin, lead singer for Steven Adler of Guns N’ Roses fame, gets to sing some of the greatest songs ever written by one of the greatest bands ever assembled alongside one of the greatest drummers in rock n’ roll history. Steven Adler has had a phenomenal solo career since parting ways with GNR. One of the keys to that success is Ari Kamin serving as the charismatic frontman of Steven’s solo band. Ari is no Axl Rose imitation. While Ari can match the great GNR singer note for note, he has his own style that audiences love. On an exciting new episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, heavy metal vocalist Ari Kamin sits down with host Rikki Lee Travolta to discuss the magic of wowing audiences around the world alongside one of the most revered drummers ever in rock n’ roll. Ari also discusses his musical influences and the unique flavor of music he creates when not appearing with Steven Adler. Follow Ari Kamin: Instagram: @arielkamin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arielkamin/

On this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, host Rikki Lee Travolta visits with Joshua Lisec – a professional ghostwriter responsible for the creation of over 80 books. This includes an impressive number of bestsellers. It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee has entertained listeners with its fair share of writers. However, Joshua Lisec probably has more international bestsellers to his credit than all the other guests combined. Yet you won’t recognize his name, because he writes the books on behalf of other authors through his company Lisec Ghostwriting. There is a misnomer that only big-time celebrities work with ghostwriters to tell their stories. In truth, anyone with an interesting story can be a successful author with the help of a quality ghostwriter like Joshua. No matter what industry you are in, if you have a story to tell, Joshua Lisec can help you put it into words. It’s a fascinating interview about a fascinating profession. You can also read about Joshua’s technique and how it could benefit you in the book “So Good They Call You a Fake”. For additional information on Joshua Lisec and his services visit www.LisecGhostwriting.com.

Chicago is a theatre town. It is second only to New York’s Broadway in terms of notoriety. The show to see in Chicago at the moment is the rousing Porchlight Music Theatre revival of Cole Porter’s “Anything Goes”. Directed by Michael Weber, the show stars the incomparable Meghan Murphy, who seems tailor-made for the part of the sexy cabaret singer at the heart of the story about mistaken identities and hysterical hijinks on the high seas. The show is a star vehicle, and Meghan Murphy is a bonafide star. If you haven’t heard of Meghan Murphy before, then stand up and take notice because she is a star that demands the spotlight and her time is now. On a new episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, host Rikki Lee Travolta sits down with the stunningly beautiful and charismatic Meghan Murphy to discuss how she became attached to the show that is the talk of the town. Meghan has some great insights on why the “pleasure bomb” of a show has hit the sweet spot with Chicago audiences. She gives credit to the feel-good nature of the show and the brilliant Cole Porter score, as well as the brilliant choreography. Rikki Lee, however, gives credit to Meghan Murphy. Murphy is not only a headlining musical theatre star, she is also an internationally famous cabaret star – just one of the many reasons she is so phenomenal as Reno Sweeney in "Anything Goes." You can be that’s an area she and Rikki Lee take a deep dive exploring. “This is one of the most fun episodes to record in the history of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee,” said Rikki Lee after interviewing Meghan. You’ll have to listen and experience why for yourself. To purchase tickets for Porchlight Music Theatre’s dazzling production of “Anything Goes” visit: www.PorchlightMusicTheatre.org. To keep tabs on Meghan Murphy and see where you can enjoy her performing next go to: www.MeghanMurphyBigRed.com.

Avery Mason is in the midst of a blossoming television career. He is known throughout the world for his portrayal of Black Grimace on the hit Starz series “Power.” He’s also appeared on such shows as “The Good Wife”, “The Last OG”, “Gotham”, and “The Punisher.” That’s not too shabby for a standup comic who got into acting as a way to eat for free. At 6’4 and 260 lbs, Avery is a brick wall of a man – big and solid. Even though he can be a teddy bear in real life, Avery has the looks of a beast. And he realizes that’s his type. By embracing the fact that he’s a big intimidating guy, Avery has a very successful acting career. However, the laughs do come easy for Avery. As a standup comic, he delights audiences throughout the New York area and is eyeing taking his comedy material on the road to clubs around the country or adapting it for a television special. He also hosts the IDK Tho podcast with fellow comedian Phil Hunt – sponsored by Magic Mind (www.magicmind.com/idktho) and Julo.Shop (www.Julo.Shop). Everyone has a story to tell, and on this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, host Rikki Lee Travolta takes a look at the story of Avery Mason – a big talent on his way up.

Jake Seelye is an actor in the northwest suburbs of Chicago who does theatre for a very good reason - because he loves it. Jake had one line in a play with It's Showtime with Rikki Lee's host Rikki Lee Travolta years ago. Jake now stars in lead roles in his community. Rikki Lee is open that he beams like a proud relative whenever he sees Jake on stage. In this episode of It's Showtime with Rikki Lee, we get to know Jake - a guy who loves to act, and shows how far you can go when you pursue what you love.

On this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, artistic director Jennifer McHugh of Parker Players joins host Rikki Lee Travolta to discuss the history of the theatre company and their current campaign rehabbing a new 10,000-square-foot space at The Barrington – a new business and fine arts complex located in Barrington, IL. True theatre people have a “let’s put on a show no matter what” mentality. That disposition has allowed Parker Players to grow and thrive even after losing their home performance space, instead staging productions at various traditional and unconventional locations. The new space in The Barrington is being transformed into a one-of-a-kind, state-of-the-art performance venue and has been gifted with a matching offer to facilitate the build. On the show, Jennifer and Rikki Lee discuss the STAGE THE BUILD campaign which is seeking donations to bring the space to life. Part of the fundraising efforts includes a production of ART by Yasima Reza, directed by Dominic Green running February 23 – March 10, 2024 at The Barrington (540 W. Northwest Hwy, Barrington). For information and to contribute visit www.ParkerPlayersTheater.org.

“Dinner and a Show” has long been the recipe for a happy date night. On this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, Chef K.C. Gulbro shares what’s on the menu at FoxFire Steakhouse – an award-winning eatery in Geneva, IL that distinguishes itself as a top choice for date nights. Situated along the Fox River, Gulbro’s FoxFire Steakhouse is an ideal stop for those attending any one of the amazing theatres in Chicago’s western suburbs. FoxFire is a favorite of patrons of such venues as Steel Beam Theatre in St. Charles, Paramount Theatre in Aurora, Batavia Fine Arts Centre, Arcada Theater in St. Charles, Albright Community Theatre in Batavia, and Playhouse 38 Theatre in Geneva. The delicious menu at FoxFire isn’t just a local favorite, the restaurant earned national honors as the “2023 Steakhouse of the Year” as awarded by the Certified Angus Beef ® brand – the premier authorities on steaks. During the interview, host Rikki Lee Travolta and Gulbro reflect on the chef’s path in the restaurant industry, from his first job bussing tables as a teenager to opening FoxFire Steakhouse with his father 20 years ago. Gulbro also details tips on different cuts of meat and how to select the steak that’s right for your taste preferences from sirloin to strip to ribeye. It’s an exciting and informative show that will have your mouthwatering. After listening, book your reservation at FoxFire Steakhouse by going to www.FoxFireGeneva.com or call (630) 232-1369.

Nick Di Brizzi Jr. is a very talented actor who you are likely to recognize from hit shows like CSI: NY, I Carly, and Fargo as well as in feature films and numerous commercials. Nick originally hails from Chicago, but has been in LA turning heads as an actor for years. He credits his Second City improv training to be the foundation for his success as an actor. Nick has a unique story, in addition to being a respected actor, he navigates living life with Cystic Fibrosis - leading to a double lung transplant. Like myself, Nick is someone who looks out for others and gives back to the community – which is why he founded the Breathe Like A Boss Foundation which offers grants to people with Cystic Fibrosis for the purpose of maintaining an exercise regime. On January 6, 2024, Nick Di Brizzi Jr. and the Breathe Like a Boss Foundation will be conducting a fun fundraising event in Elmwood Park, IL. On this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, host Rikki Lee Travolta chats with Nick about his acting career, the Breathe Like a Boss Foundation, and the upcoming Jan 6 Bocce Ball Tournament Fundraiser. For more information on joining the event and making donations visit https://givebutter.com/c/BLABBocceballEvent In addition to his work as an actor, Nick Di Brizzi Jr. is a residential realtor for properties in the Los Angeles area. Contact Nick DiBrizzi Jr. through Facebook or Instagram at: Facebook: @NickDiBrizziJr Instagram: @nickdibrizzijr For the Breathe Like a Boss Foundation: Facebook: @TheBreatheLikeABossFoundation Instagram: @thebreathelikeabossfoundation

There is a certain art to playing keyboards in a guitar band. It’s a skill that Blake Sakamoto mastered after informal lessons from Dio keyboardist Claude Schnell early in his career. Blake took that skill and became one of the best keyboardists in rock - most notably helping to give the Dan Reed Network their signature sound. In this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, congenial host Rikki Lee Travolta takes a deep dive into all things Dan Reed Network with Blake Sakamoto – the keyboardist for the band behind the hit albums Dand Reed Network, Slam, and Ritual in the 1980’s and 90’s. Blake and DRN were well known in the U.S., and huge in Europe. They opened for legendary acts like Bon Jovi and The Rolling Stones, bringing their unique blend of rock, funk, and metal to fans all over the world. Blake now makes his home in the Greater Portland, Oregon area and is still involved in the music industry thrilling audiences throughout the Pacific Northwest with The Nu Wavers – the sexiest 80’s cover band on the scene, bringing back the onstage showmanship that made the 80’s so dynamic and fun. He also has an interesting connection to the world of musical theatre. In addition to his music career with the Nu Wavers, Blake balances a successful Country Financial insurance agency office – licensed in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Arizona, Wisconsin, and Illinois. So, if you’re in the market for Auto, Home, Farm, Life, Business, or Retirement policies contact Blake Sakamoto at (503) 266-7000 (voice & text) or BlakeSakamoto2@countryfinancial.com Be sure to check out the Entertainment News, Views, and Reviews at our sister publication website www.LifeandTimes.biz.

When it comes to heavy metal and hard rock, one woman’s name stands out above all others. Lita Ford, the incredible guitarist and passionate singer, is in a class by herself. ]On a new episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, host Rikki Lee Travolta taps the legendary rockstar for the details of her impressive career with a particular emphasis on showmanship for killer live performances and what goes into creating a hit song. Also on the menu – a deep dive into why Lita Ford loves B.C. Rich guitars. Lita broke into the industry at the age of 16 when she was recruited to be the lead guitarist in the all-female group The Runaways. By the time Lita was 17, the band had a record out and was opening for Van Halen, Talking Heads, Cheap Trick, and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. They scored hits with songs like “Cherry Bomb”, “Heartbeat”, “School Days”, “Hollywood”, and “Queens of Noise”. In the 1980s, Lita attained Rock Goddess status as a solo artist. She had huge hits in that era with songs like “Kiss Me Deadly”, “Close My Eyes Forever”, “Dressed to Kill”, “Back to the Cave”, and “Falling In and Out of Love”. She continues to delight fans today with live concerts - and new music is on the way! Lita Ford has long been the poster woman for B.C. Rich guitars, including a love affair with the Warlock model. In fact, one of Lita’s signature Warlock guitars is on display at the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame. During the interview, Lita explains why B.C. Rich is her guitar of choice. Lita’s focus on making great music has made her an icon in hard rock. She is recognized and beloved the world over. One question she is routinely asked is when fans can expect a new record. Lita confides that she plans to have a new album out in 2024. If you are a fan of Lita Ford, a fan of heavy metal and hard rock, or just interested in the rock n’ roll world in general, you’ll enjoy this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee featuring the leading lady of hard rock, Lita Ford. For up-to-date information on Lita Ford visit: www.LitaFordOnline.com

On this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, host Rikki Lee Travolta is joined by Broadway and television star Andy Mientus. Andy is starring in “Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas” produced by The Jim Henson Company and iTheatrics at the historic Studebaker Theatre in the heart of Chicago. Andy has starred on Broadway in “Spring Awakening” and “Les Misérables” and the national tour of “Wicked.” He was seen in key roles in the television hit “Smash” with Jeremy Jordan and Katherine McPhee and as supervillain The Pied Piper in the CW’s “The Flash.” In this interview, Andy discusses what it’s like starring in a Jim Henson entertainment production and the tremendous respect he has for working with the talented puppeteers. He also lavishes praise on his other talented costars and what it was like working with director and choreographer Christopher Gattelli who won a Tony Award for “Newsies”. Another topic of discussion is the incredible score by Oscar and Grammy-winning composer Paul Williams – who was intimately involved in the rehearsal process for this production. “Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas” is an absolute treasure that children and adults will love. To make plans to see this wonderful holiday musical at the historic Studebaker Theatre through December 31`, 2023, call the Fine Arts Building Box Office at (312) 753-3210 extension 102 or go online to www.FineArtsBuilding.com.