The Arts Section

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with the author of a interesting new book that looks back the origins of nouvelle cuisine in France and its lasting impact on dining culture all over the world. Theater critics Jonathan Abarbanel and Kathy Hey join Gary to review the world premiere musical, LOKI: THE END OF THE WORLD TOUR. Later in the show, Gary talks to acclaimed cinematographer Roger Deakins about his interest in photography. And we’ll take you inside a new Minecraft experience that just opened in the suburbs.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with the filmmakers behind a Chicago-made indie film set to make its local premiere. Michael Glover Smith and Elizabeth Stam stop by to talk about their new movie, HEKLA. Theater critics Jonathan Abarbanel and Kathy Hey Gary to review a world premiere at Chicago Shakespeare that’s being directed by Jason Alexander. Later in the show, Gary talks to one of the singers in a new Burt Bacharach revue that’s come to Chicago after a run in New York.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek visits the Intuit Museum of Art a year after it reopened. The Chicago museum that celebrates outsider art is seeing its attendance numbers go up. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, review Steppenwolf Theatre’s world premiere WINDFALL. Later in the show, Gary previews International Jazz City, which is being hosted in Chicago this year. And Gary profiles a suburban high school jazz ensemble that’s headed to New York for a national competition.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek visits the Museum of Contemporary Art’s new exhibit, DANCING THE REVOLUTION. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, will join me to review a play titled POOR BEHAVIOR. Later in the show, Gary catches up with WTTW’s Geoffrey Baer to talk about his involvement in a new a cappella show on the history of pop music. And we’ll check out an exhibit in Elmhurst.

On this editon of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek talks to a record producer who’s found a niche searching for archived and sometimes forgotten jazz recordings, then gives them new life as official releases. His latest project involves the an archive in Chicago. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a play called the SUGAR WIFE. Later in the show, Gary catches up with the author of a new book about the history of Nintendo.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek visits a Chicago gallery that’s set to open an exhibit that pays tribute to artist Tony Fitzpatrick’s influence on collage. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new production of The Three Musketeers. Later in the show, we’ll preview David Bryne’s new theater experience that just opened in Chicago. And Gary catches up with the director of the documentary One Golden Summer, a film takes a new look at the rise and fall of the little league that brought the city together in the summer of 2014.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with renowned jazz musicians Paul Wertico and David Becker to talk about their new project, TUXEDO MAN. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review THE JACKIE WILSON STORY. And Gary checks in with Chicago-based vocalist Isabella Isherwood, who is set to release her debut album this week.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with Evanston-based author Jarrett Dapier to talk about his new graphic novel, which was inspired by a real life protest against a book-banning effort in Chicago. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, will join me to review the world premiere of WHITE ROOSTER. And later in the show, Gary profiles a suburban theater celebrating it’s 95th anniversary.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek checks in with Chicago-based theater artist Matthew C. Yee to talk about his new play, WHITE ROOSTER, that’s premiering at Lookingglass Theatre. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, will join me to review TWO SISTERS AND A PIANO. Later in the show, Gary previews the 98th Oscars ceremony with Chicago-based film critic Janet Arvia.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with acclaimed actor Amy Landecker to talk about her new film, FOR WORSE, which she wrote, directed and starred in. The Dueling Critics join Gary to review a new play set in the immediate aftermath of the covid pandemic. Later in the show, Gary talks to the choreographer behind a new climate-focused dance program set to make its Chicago premiere.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with the director behind a thought-provoking new documentary that puts a spotlight on a southern town grappling with its dark history. The Dueling Critics join Gary to review a world premiere titled PIVOT.  Later in the show, Gary checks in with Chicago-based filmmaker & author Michael Glover Smith to talk about his new book BOB DYLAN AS FILMMAKER: NO TIME TO THINK. And we’ll visit a suburban music school that’s continues to grow.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek talks to the filmmaker behind a new public video art project that utilizes old home movies to create something new. The Dueling Critics join Gary to review a new production of an acclaimed play from the early 80s. Later in the show, Gary takes a closer look at WTTW’s new documentary series FIRSTHAND, which is putting a spotlight on democracy this season. And we’ll hear all about what’s on display at the Chicago Architecture Biennial which is open for another week.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with the Joffrey Ballet’s artistic director to talk about the company’s legacy as it turns 70 and to preview its upcoming winter program. The Dueling Critics join Gary to review a new version of old rom-com, Goodman Theater’s new production of HOLIDAY. Later in the show, Gary checks in with a program director at the Donnelley Foundation to discuss some of the challenges local small arts organizations are facing right now. And we’ll visit a Tiffany Lamps exhibit.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with celebrated theater artist David Girolmo to learn more a new Irish musical he’s directing. Gary also sits down with theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel for a conversation about his life as a critic. And later, we’ll check in with local jazz vocalist Alyssa Allgood to talk about her new release and what’s next.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with artist Kelli Connell to talk about a new two part exhibit of her work at the Elmhurst Art Museum. The Dueling Critics will join me to review a new production from A RED ORCHID THEATER. Later in the show, we’ll learn all about one of the country’s premiere ice sculpting businesses that just so happens to be located in the suburbs.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek has all the details of International Jazz Day 2026. Chicago will host the global celebration of jazz this year. Illinois Govenor JB Pritzker, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, and jazz legend Herbie Hancock were among the luminaries at a Jazz Day launch event. Theater Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Kathy Hey, join Gary to review Timeline Theater’s EUREKA DAY. Later in the show, Gary revisits his conversation with celebrated producer and musician Don Was.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek previews the latest installment of a Chicago orchestra’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. tribute concert. Gary also revisits a suburban man who is responsible for some of the most candid photos that exist of the late civil rights leader. Later in the show, Gary catches up with Chicago-based vocalist Paul Marinaro to talk about his new album, MOOD ELLINGTON. And we’ll hear what the Dueling Critics have to say about a new play titled THE UNKNOWN VARIABLE.

On this editon of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes a closer look at a new exhibit that highlights the ways spirituality influences authors. Later in the show, we enter awards season, Gary spotlights hist top 10 movies of the past year. Films didn’t make as much money as expected, but the quality was there. And we’ll hear what the Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, have to say about Steppenwolf Theater’s latest.

Happy New Year! On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes a look back at 2025. First up, food critic Nick Allen discusses his favorite new restaurants that opened in 2025. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to talk about their favorite productions from the last 12 months. Later in the show, WDCB music director Paul Abella joins Gary to chat about his favorite jazz albums of 2025. And we’ll hear from local artist Andi Crist.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek revisits a couple of his favorite pieces from the past year. Back in the summer, Gary got a chance to talk with actor Gary Sinise, we’ll listen to that. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, joins Gary to review a new production of ANNIE that just opened on the North Shore. And we’ll hear all about a new book that explores the history of Chicago’s Fine Arts Building.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek goes behind the scenes of a local production of IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: A LIVE RADIO PLAY. The classic film is the inspiration for this play within a play. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new musical production of SISTER ACT. Later in the show, Gary visits a west suburban bookstore to get the scoop on what titles are on peoples’ wish lists this holiday season. And we’ll sit down for some Tom & Jerrys at a Chicago bar that specializes in the festive drink.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with theater and film star Anthony Rapp to talk about his new holiday cabaret show opening in Chicago. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join to Gary review a new production of GASLIGHT. Later in the show, Gary checks in with photographer Daniel Moreno, who just released a new photo book all about Chicago’s holiday trains. And we’ll go inside an exhibit at the Loyola Museum of Art that’s become a tradition this time of year.

On this edition, host Gary Zidek talks to the star of an R-rated holiday comedy that’s back for a fifth consecutive year. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to a review a new production of MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING. Later in the show, Gary talks to artist/curator Pablo Helguera about his new exhibit at the Museum of Contemporary Art. And Gary takes a closer look at Christmas play that tells the story of one family over the course of 90 years.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with two of the women who shaped the Chicago Architecture Biennial. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, joins Gary for their annual holiday theater preview. Later in the show, Gary visits the Morton Arboretum for a behind the scenes look at its annual Illumination experience. And we’ll hear about a holiday concert with a local twist.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with author Nora Wendl to talk about her new book that offers a different perspective on the woman behind the now iconic Farnsworth House. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new production of AMADEUS. Later in the show, Gary revisits a book that explores the origins of the holiday we now know as Thanksgiving.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with Chicago-based artist Andi Crist to talk about her new exhibition LIVE, LAUGH, LABOR. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to talk about a new production of AS YOU LIKE IT. Plus, a report on some new shows on Broadway. And Gary talks to the director of a documentary that tells the story of group of artists who set up a secret apartment inside their local mall for four years.

Today on the program, host Gary Zidek catches up with legendary cinematographer Roger Deakins to talk about his new book, a memoir-slash-cinematography guide. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, will join Gary to review a new version of Tracy Letts’ SUPERIOR DOUGHNUTS. Later in the show, Gary talks to filmmaker Gabe Polsky about his new documentary, an outside the box look at an eccentric man who believes he’s been chosen by ancient prophecies to help indigenous peoples’ save the Amazon rain forests. And we’ll hear about a cross-cultural festival that brings together artists from Chicago and Mexico.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek has the story behind alt rock legend David Byrne’s immersive theater project that’s coming to Chicago next year. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a play inspired by a chapter from Bram Stroker’s Dracula. Later in the show, Gary catches up with choreographer Chanel DaSilva to learn more about her Chicago set world premiere WABASH AND YOU. Evanston based musician Lindsay Anderson stops by to talk about her new album. And Gary previews this year’s Black Harvest Film Festival with fest curator jada-amina.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes you inside a former 7-Eleven that’s now a music venue on the northside of Chicago. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review the world premiere play HUNDREDS AND HUNDREDS OF STARS. Later in the show, Gary profiles a Chicago arts center celebrating its 50th anniversary. And he’ll visit a suburban oddities & curiosities shop that’s unlike anywhere you’ve been before.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek talks to the director of a new documentary that dives deeper into the story of the Jackie Robinson West little league team that captured the city’s attention for one summer. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new play titled UGLY LIES THE BONE. And later in the show, Gary revisits his last interview with Tony Fitzpatrick. The acclaimed artist passed away last week.

On this edition of The Arts Section, we start to get into the Halloween spirit, host Gary Zidek talks to the celebrated playwright behind a new horror play opening at Chicago Shakespeare Theater. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new play that imagines a dystopian future with a 26-year old queen. Later in the show, Gary previews Chicago’s 11th annual Arts In the Dark Halloween parade. And we’ll check out some fall color and animal sculptures at the Morton Arboretum.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with Blues Note Records president and music legend Don Was to talk about his new music project. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new play that looks back at how Shakespeare’s works might’ve survived. Later in the show, Gary checks in with City Lit Theater to learn more about the company’s Banned Books Week programming. And Gary visits a new virtual reality attraction in Rosemont.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek sits down with a local opera singer to talk about her unique path to the stage and an upcoming performance with the New Philharmonic. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new production of a play that originally premiered in Chicago in 1938. Later in the show, Gary visits a new exhibit of Tiffany Lamps. Plus, we’ll hear all about a local theater organization that’s been presenting Gilbert and Sullivan works for over 60 years.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek checks in with the executive director of the Hyde Park Jazz Festival to talk about some of the challenges facing the annual event. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to preview the best local stage productions opening this fall. Later in the show, Gary talks to two of the producers behind WTTW’s new season of Chicago Stories. And we’ll hear from the author of a biography of B.B. King.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek profiles a Chicago organization dedicated to keeping the tradition of film projection alive. He’ll talk to executive director of the Chicago Film Society. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review the musical adaptation of CATCH ME IF YOU CAN. Later in the show, Gary catches up with bestselling author Kerri Maher. And we’ll revisit the Cleve Carney Museum of Art’s Hokusai exhibit before it closes.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes you inside a new exhibit inspired by an old Asian design principle involving borrowed scenery. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, joins Gary to review a world premiere that takes a closer look at the teenage girl experience. Later in the show, we’ll hear about a new art therapy program that just launched in the west suburbs. And Gary profiles a non-profit club that’s been providing women musicians community for 150 years.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with Academy Award-winning composer Justin Hurwitz to talk about a special live score presentation of one of his most popular films. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a politically charged musical comedy. Later in the show, Gary visits the Newberry Library to check out a new exhibit that explores society’s relationship with birds. And we’ll hear from the author all about scents.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up renowned filmmaker Angus Maclachlan to talk about his new movie, A LITTLE PRAYER. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review a new musical revue of Stephen Sondheim’s work. Later in the show, Gary chats with guitarist Nathaniel Braddock about his upcoming performance at the Chicago Jazz Fest. And I’ll look back at 50 years of the northshore’s Marriott Theater.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek talks to the two authors of a charming new book that shines a light on the history and current state of Chicago’s Uptown Theater. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a musical adaptation of the French film AMELIE. And later in the show, Gary catches up with the executive director of a local Puerto Rican arts organization looking to expand.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with award-winning author Rebecca Makkai to talk about a writers festival taking place in Chicago. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join me to review a revival of the Tony Award-winning musical PARADE. Later in the show, Gary talks to the president of Aurora’s Paramount Theater about some funding issues and programming changes. And we’ll hear about a suburban museum’s permanent collection.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek is highlighting the intersection of arts & commerce. He’ll catch up with a local jazz musician who started her own business after the pandemic changed everything. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new one-women play that’s generating a lot of discussion. Later in the show, Gary visits a Wheaton music academy that offers privates lessons to kids through people in their 80s. And he’ll highlight a new west suburban store that offers records and beer.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with the indie folk duo STONE AND SNOW. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review Celine Song’s play TOM AND ELIZA. Later in the show, Gary takes you with to a special summer arts camp that aims to provide comfort to kids who have lost a parent. And we’ll check in with food critic Nick Allen to talk about some of his favorite local summer spots.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes a closer look at a new concert-theater work that explores the history of composer William Byrd’s acts of defiance in 16th century England. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to preview local outdoor theater options, plus we’ll hear about what’s happening this summer at the Stratford Theater Festival in Canada. Later in the show, Gary catches up with the theater artist behind a bio-play that looks back at the life of acclaimed singer Donny Hathaway. And Gary talks to the author of a book all about the hit TV series Ted Lasso.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek visits the Museum of Contemporary Art’s new exhibit, CITY IN A GARDEN, that explores Chicago’s Queer art and activism communities. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a new ambitious production of ANGELS IN AMERICA. Later in the show, it’s all accordions, all the time, as the annual Accordions and Teachers Guild Fest returns to the area. And we’ll discuss where to get the best Italian Beefs in the Chicago-area.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek sits down with an award-winning local author who just released her second novel, a mystery set in the northwest burbs. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to talk about the world premiere play DHABA ON DEVON AVENUE. Later in the show, Gary takes you with to Northwestern’s Block Museum of Art to check out an exhibit that explores indigenous traditions. And we’ll revisit a segment about a patriotic outdoor exhibit.

On this edition of the program, host Gary Zidek catches up with the author of a fantastic new book that dives into the storied history of Chicago’s Fine Arts Building. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to talk about the world premiere IRAQ, BUT FUNNY. And later in the show, Gary visits a west suburban museum that specializes in something few institutions around the world do.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek talks to Steppenwolf co-founder and multiple award-winning actor Gary Sinise. The Chicago-area native is coming back home to perform a concert to raise support for a non-profit that helps disabled veterans. Later in the show, Gary visits the Driehaus Museum to learn more about the subject of its latest exhibit, Scottish artist Rory McEwen. And we’ll hear from the author of a book about the world’s two most famous movie critics.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with local jazz vocalist Isabella Isherwood to talk about some of her upcoming projects, plus an exclusive in-studio performance. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review GOLDEN LEAD RAGTIME BLUES. Later in the show, Gary talks to local theater artist Heather Currie about a new stage adaptation of WAR OF THE WORLDS. And we’ll preview the Elmhurst Art Museum’s latest exhibit.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes a closer look at a Chicago summer tradition that’s turning 75 this week. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to review a world premiere titled NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH. Later in the show, Gary checks in with the president of the Chiago Scots about this year’s Scottish Festival and Highland Games. And the circus is in town, we’ll hear what life under the big top is like.

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek sits down with the new artistic director of the 90-year-old Grant Park Music Festival. The Dueling Critics, Kelly Kleiman and Jonathan Abarbanel, stop by to preview all the summer plays and musicals they’re most looking forward to seeing. Later in the show, Gary previews the new Hokusai exhibition that’s opening in the western suburbs.