Chekhov vs. Chekhov

Our top five picks for things to do this week: Theatre’s most depressive Russian, times two . . . Lebowski, the musical . . . Schwimmer’s Trust on film . . . free Toni Morrison . . . and what Sound Opinions’ Jim DeRogatis is doing this weekend

Beatles vs. Stones

On the occasion of a new book by Greg Kot and Jim DeRogatis, we explore the musical smackdown of the ages by asking a few other prominent Chicagoans to weigh in. Choose a side in the comments below.

How ’Bout Them Apples?

Our top five picks for things to do this week: Silk Road smolders . . . Emily Johnson stinks it up . . . Chrissie Hynde goes rogue . . . plus, free pie ingredients and Richard Hunt’s weekend plans!

"Macbeth," Muti, and Mutter: Season-Opening Drama at the Lyric and CSO

It was a big weekend for floor-length sparkly gowns and penguin suits—some accessorized with swooping capes, torn from the racks of Phantoms ‘R’ Us. On Friday, the Lyric Opera of Chicago opened its season with Verdi’s Macbeth, and on Saturday, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra honored its first official year with Maestro Riccardo Muti at the helm with
a one-night only performance and ball.”