Quick Escape to Chicago
Chicago has so many exciting cultural events happening in 2022 we don’t know where to begin. Let’s start with the acclaimed Steppenwolf Theatre, which in March presents the world premiere of King James, a play by ensemble member Rajiv Joseph that explores basketball star LeBron James’ impact on Cleveland through the eyes of two young sports fans. In April, comedian and storyteller Mike Birbiglia arrives for a four-week run of his new solo show, The Old Man and the Pool, collecting humorous (and serious) tales about life, death and a YMCA pool. May brings two blockbuster art openings, a retrospective of Chicago artist Nick Cave called “Forothremore,” which will bring the artist’s distinctive Soundsuits and an expansive installation of kinetic spinners to the Museum of Contemporary Art on May 14. Fans of post-Impressionist paintings will want to see the Art Institute’s new exhibition devoted to French artist Paul Cezanne, which goes on display May 15.
Stay just off Michigan Avenue, at the relatively new Virgin Chicago or wait until August to stay in the 3rd tallest building in town, a mere 101 stories tall, soon home to the St. Regis. Dine on sublime deep-dish pizza at the longtime family favorite, Lou Malnati’s, or splurge for a memorable meal at chef Grant Aschatz’s Alinea in Lincoln Park. In late summer, be on the lookout for Le Select on North Wells, the latest from Boka Restaurant Group, the company that’s worked with renowned chefs like Stephanie Izard at Girl & the Goat. They’re opening a French bistro with Daniel Rose at the helm. Rose will still run his other project, Le Coucou in New York, the 2017 James Beard winner for Best New Restaurant.