Support the Arts—Because Chicago Wouldn’t Be the Same Without Them
Memorial Day weekend is just around the corner, and with it comes the long-awaited curtain rise on summer in Chicago! From street festivals to bold theater productions, JT is all in on celebrating the season—and there’s no better way to do it than by cheering on the creatives who make our city come alive.
Here at JT, we’ve always had a soft spot (okay, a full-on obsession) with Chicago’s arts and culture scene. We’ve been proud to not only support but also work with many of Chicago’s iconic arts and culture organizations. Whether it’s a pop-up performance in the park or a mainstage premiere that brings the house down, these performances are the heart of summer in the city.
But there’s a plot twist. Federal funding cuts are hitting the arts sector hard—and that means fewer opportunities for artists and audiences alike. Now more than ever, it’s up to all of us to keep the creative energy and support flowing. So, as you start penciling in rooftop brunches and beach days, make room on your calendar for the arts.
Today, we’re spotlighting a few of our local favorites —past and current JT clients—who are spreading joy across Chicago, one performance, exhibit and standing ovation at a time. Here’s what we plan to check out this summer.
Steppenwolf celebrates its 50th Anniversary Season AND six Tony nominations for PURPOSE on Broadway. Bravo!! This summer, we plan to check out Chicago girl Amy Morton, who stars in “You Will Get Sick.” Described as a widely imaginative new play that traces the hilarious and deeply moving saga of one man’s illness and his unlikely caretaker’s pursuit of her dreams.
From the producers of SIX, “42 Balloons” at Chicago Shakespeare is inspired by an unbelievably true story of a truck driver who achieves his lifelong dream of flying in a lawn chair attached to 42 weather balloons. So cool! What’s calling us… its 80s pop-inspired score!
Take a free class with Healing Arts Chicago that supports mental health and wellness, including sound meditation, music, painting, dance, storytelling and more through the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events and City of Chicago Mental Health Clinics. Learn more!
Revel25, Arts Alliance Illinois’ annual fundraiser is coming up – May 29. Tickets are still available. This will be JT’s third year supporting this annual event and it never disappoints. If you want to support the arts, buy a ticket and come out for great performances, food, drinks and networking with some of the best!
Join Team Culture. We didn’t coin the phrase, but we support Broadway in Chicago CEO Lou Raizin’s vision for the future of downtown to create cultural projects in and around the Loop – a Cultural Stadium, he calls it. From a City Club panel to a Chicago Tribune op-ed, JT has helped bring public attention to his vision. Learn more at www.culturalstadium.com.
What can you do?
Buy tickets to a local concert, play or exhibition.
Make a donation to your favorite arts organization.
Volunteer your time or skills for an upcoming event.
Follow and promote local artists on social media.
Encourage friends and family to join you in supporting the arts.