Neighborhood News: Happy Spring from Belmont-Central, Lincoln Square, Chicago Loop, River North, Ravenswood

Spring has sprung, and with it, new opportunities for fun in Chicago. Don’t miss any of Chicago’s awesome opportunities to come out and enjoy all that our unique communities offer this week!

Take the kids to see the Stahl Family Theater’s latest production, ‘The Ugly Duckling’ premiering Wednesday, March 23, through May 6. Located at 5900 W. Belmont, in the Belmont-Central neighborhood, the one-hour musical tells the story of a new student, who “isn’t quite like the other ducklings on her first day at Lucky Ducky School.” The musical also provides age-appropriate lessons about uniqueness, bullying and becoming “up standers” rather than bystanders, featuring a script by Jesus Perez, with original songs composed by Paige Coffman. For tickets and information, click here.

For a relaxing 90 minutes in a busy, stressful world, Lincoln Square’s Bloom Yoga Studio, 4663 N. Rockwell, presents Playful Yoga at the Wall on Thursday, March 24, from 6:30pm-8pm. The instructor prominently features wall work in standing, back bending and inverted shapes. Cost is $35, unless a Studio Member, where the rate is $25. For more information, click here.

Welcome to…. ‘Jurassic Park!’ The Steven Spielberg-directed 1993 classic featured an amazing score by Oscar winner John Williams. On Friday, March 25 at 7:30pm, and Sunday, March 26 at 3pm, relive the movie on the big screen at Orchestra Hall, 220 S. Michigan Avenue. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra recreates Williams’ haunting orchestral score. Starring Sam Neill, Laura Dern, and Jeff Goldblum, the adventure pits man against prehistoric predators in the ultimate battle for survival. Ticket holders are invited to a free preconcert conversation featuring Richard Kaufman in Orchestra Hall 75 minutes before the performance. The conversation will last approximately 30 minutes. No additional tickets required. Tickets start at $85. For tickets and information, click here.

At the James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph Street, and Spiegeltent ZaZou – Cambria Hotel – 32 W. Randolph Street, the cast of Teatro Zinanni invites you to experience “the finest fine diner in the Chicago Loop.” According to Broadway in Chicago, the chef-Madame Z (Chicago’s own Bethany Thomas) and head waiter, Doily (Kevin Kent), have assembled a hardworking restaurant crew of unemployed circus artists from around the world. An old friend comes roaring up on his motorcycle, ready to bring their dreams to life. What will they wish for? Included in this theatrical production is a multi-course gourmet feast, including vegan options. NOTE: Ticket price does not include the $10 per person hospitality fee, beverages, or additional menu items and additional gratuity. A treat for all the senses! For tickets, click here.

Chicago Restaurant Week is in full swing, and at Eataly, 43 E. Ohio Street, is celebrating at their Vino & Food Festa. On Friday, March 25 and Saturday, March 26, you can enjoy unlimited tastings of more than 25 regional Italian wines, salumi, formaggi, and chef-curated bites. And… each ticket includes one bottle of prosecco to-go! The festa is taking place in three of Eataly’s private event spaces: La Scuola, Il Salone, and La Birreria. For tickets and information, click here.

Art lovers are invited to Ravenswood’s Cornelia Art Building, 1800 W. Cornelia Avenue, on Friday March 25 from 6pm to 10pm, and Saturday March 26, 11am to 3pm, to their first Open House of the new year!

The building has undergone extensive remodeling and welcomed many new artists. With one-of-a-kind artwork and special artisan-made gifts by the building artists, the event offers something for the whole family. Featuring the works of Nelson Armour (photography), Judy Zeddies (printmaking), and Tiphanie Spencer (painting and drawing). Many, many more! For more information, click here.

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago