Chicago entertainment heats up with magic, Jackson and volcanos

The Illusionists has packed houses both on Broadway and on tours. Now one of its team is stepping out on his own this month. Adam Trent is taking his act on the road and has two shows in Chicago.

He focuses on the humor with his audience participation and up close magic. While strong enough for adult audiences, kids are welcome and will have a lot of fun. His antics and tricks will leave people satisfied and dazzled at the same time.

There are still tickets for the March 17 show at Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph at 8:00 p.m. Look for them at AdamTrent.com.

After Laura Benanti cancelled on Chicago Theatre Workshop's benefit on Sunday March 18, performer Cheyenne Jackson stepped up to the plate. With such Broadway hits and a strong television background, Jackson is sure to entertain at the Victory Gardens Theater, 2433 N. Lincoln Avenue with two shows at 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Tickets can be found at ChicagoTheatreWorkshop.org.

Hot Pink, or Ready to Blow opened at The Den Theatre this week,1333 N. Milwaukee Ave. The New American Folk Theatre Company Members bring a twisted tale of virgins being thrown into a volcano with a Heathers movie inspired script. With Mean Girls debuting on Broadway this seems like the time for a play like this. The results are mixed.

Charlie Irving sounds just like Ryder at times and Caitlyn Jackson relishes the role of Bangs, but other members don't have fully developed characters. There's no lines quite as good as "fuck me gently with a chainsaw" and that's a shame. If the energy displayed at the curtain call can be throughout the production then New Pompeii will be saved after all.

This one burns up on April 7 so get your tickets now at NewAmericanFolkTheatre.org.