Back in June, a group of musicians, artists and puppeteers staged a shadow puppet show at Three Brothers Arts Garage. The centerpiece of the show was a mesmerizing performance of "Jabberwocky," Lewis Carrol's classic poem of nonsense that added such words as "galumphing," "uffish" and "chortle" to the English language canon. The complete spectacle was brought to life in arresting visuals and the haunting narration of Sally Timms. more ›

Whenever the Sadies are in town it's a safe bet that Mekon Prime Jon Langford will take the stage for a short three song set. If Langford's bandmate Sally Timms is in the audience, she might convinced to come onstage and sing a couple songs, as well. more ›

It’s the season of giving, and we’re all looking for a way to help the less fortunate. But that doesn’t mean we can’t have a good time in the process. This year, Covers for Cover II gives Chicago the chance to support a worthy cause while rockin’ out with local female cover bands. The show benefits Connections for Abused Women and their Children, a shelter that offers advocacy, counseling and a 24-hour hotline to women and children affected by domestic abuse. more ›

The huge banner containing an image of President-elect Barack Obama and makes it pretty obvious that Hideout's owners and staff were pretty vocal supporters of the dude when he was running for office and are tickled pink that he's about to take the reins. more ›

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We've looked all day and still can't top hedgehogs in bandages (they were bandaged at, no lie, Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital). That's the clear winner of awesomeness today. But there were other good contenders... Good luck getting this catchy pork song out of your head. Have 24 hours to burn? The annual 24-hour The Second City That Never Sleeps: Letters to Santa Benefit kicks off tonight at 7pm at Second City. This year's performers also... more ›

So we were poking around Second City's website and noticed they're having a fundraiser to buy presents for needy kids on December 5 on The Second City e.t.c. stage. It's called The Second City That Never Sleeps: Letters To Santa. Apparently it's a 24-hour event that will feature lots of improv and a few bands. Musical acts confirmed so far include Sally Timms and Jon Langford, Jeff Tweedy, Will Oldham, Robbie Fulks, Steve Albini, and... more ›

For those of us stuck in the Four Star City while all our great bands head to the Lone Star State, the Hideout has the perfect idea — a SXSW-style showcase before the event. It’s the perfect event to remind us of how much fun the Block Party was last year. It also lets us give a little back to those bands that many times travel down to Austin with nothing but hope in their... more ›

We’ve done a little improv in our day, and we know just how challenging it can be to chock-full of humor and energy for an hour or two. But being the improv giants they are, Second City will be hosting a 24-hour marathon of comedy and music beginning this evening at 7 p.m. as part of their benefit event, “The Second City That Never Sleeps: Letters to Santa.” Tickets are $10 for the entire day... more ›

Chicagoist is, in fact, indier than thou. So obviously we lurve the radio that is independent. This is why we cried last week when we learned WOXY was finally giving up the good fight. However, we cheered ourselves up with the news that KEXP would be doing a remote broadcast from our fair city. KEXP is in town for the next few days and there live on-air schedule is filled with Chicago favorites like (and... more ›

Touch & Go finally released the set-times for this year's big ol' anniversary show/Hideout Block Party. Saturday is THE day to go, but all three days have got stellar acts. Come to think of it, while Saturday hosts the heavy-hitting legendary bands, Friday night is the one to don the ol' dancing shoes and get your groove on. We are so psyched for this. Friday, September 8 9:00pm !!! 8:00pm Ted Leo + Pharmacists 7:00pm... more ›