American Blues Theater’s The Rebirth of Blues

American Blues Theater (ABT), Chicago’s second oldest Equity ensemble Company, celebrates its 24th season with The Rebirth of Blues Benefit, Monday, Nov. 16 featuring special guest Academy Award-winner Olympia Dukakis. As part of the program, Dukakis reads a passage from ABT’s Spring 2010 show “RIPPED: The Living Newspaper Project” and participates in a VIP pre-event reception. The benefit takes place at the Bridgeview Bank, 4753 N. Broadway, from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., with a special VIP reception with Dukakis at 5:30 p.m. Set in a stunning Italian Renaissance rotunda within the Bridgeview Bank, the evening kicks-off with a private reception at 5:30 p.m. where guests can spend an intimate hour with Dukakis. At 6:30 p.m., the party begins with drinks, delicious food, live music and a preview of “RIPPED.” Dukakis and Artistic Director of Victory Gardens Theater Dennis Zacek will read select pieces written by Eduardo Machado and Rick Cleveland. An auction will offer extraordinary items, from the hottest theater tickets in town to a walk-on Broadway role. Chicago’s popular blues band, The Skirts, perform live throughout the evening.

Event website