The New Jazz Showcase Really Swings

By Rob Christopher in Arts & Entertainment on Sep 9, 2008 2:06PM

Joe Segal's legendary Jazz Showcase has led a somewhat nomadic existence since he opened it in 1947, setting up shop in perhaps sixty different locations. The latest incarnation opened earlier this year in Printer's Row and this past weekend we used a gig by the legendary Benny Golson as an excuse to check out the new digs. Our conclusion: wow!

Segal has found a plum spot at historic Dearborn Station, it's easy to get to and has a vintage feel. The walls are festooned with some astonishing memorabilia, bolstering the claim that pretty every major American jazz figure of the 20th century has passed through its doors. Unlike The Green Mill, which is small and can get a little raucous, the new room at Jazz Showcase is expansive, with a capacity of around 170. And if you have a compulsion to blab at shows then it's best to just stay home. This is a place to listen to music. If you do start yapping you'll get some withering stares and Segal himself might come over to straighten you out.

A $20 cover allows you to stay for both sets, space permitting, and there are even family-friendly Sunday matinees at 4 p.m. when kids 12 and under get in free. The room has superb acoustics (only minimal amplification is necessary) and unimpeded sightlines no matter where you sit. Come early and you might snag the best seats in the house: a pair of overstuffed armchairs at stage left that will make you feel like you're listening to jazz in your living room.

photo by JOE M500