An electrifying roster of entertainment is coming to Crystal Lake’s Raue Center for the Arts, and it’s not only about who’s onstage. With new technology and a wide audience appeal, Raue Center is staging a season unlike any other.
“We have new lights, a new sound system and, for our Arts on the Green outdoor series, the team is building a semi-permanent amphitheater stage,” says Richard Kuranda, executive director. “On top of that, we have one of the best artist lineups we’ve had in a long time.”
Live music is a cornerstone and it starts with The Dave Matthews Tribute Band on Aug. 12. This five-piece ensemble delivers all of the excitement, energy and intimacy of the real deal. Look for Battle of the Bands on Aug. 19 and tributes to the Grateful Dead, ABBA and the Beach Boys in months to come.
Experience the magic of cinema on Aug. 13 with a screening of “Little Things,” a short film that’s racked up film festival wins. The event is followed by a Q&A with the Chicago-based filmmakers.
Raue’s Arts on the Green outdoor series concludes on Aug. 26 as Heather Wood and Jessica Hornsten pay tribute to Linda Ronstadt and Joni Mitchell.
Then, five-time Grammy-winning blues guitarist Robert Cray hits the stage Sept. 8. He’s followed by award-winning blues guitarist Hector Anchondo on Sept. 23 and country singer-songwriter Phil Vassar on Nov. 18.
Enjoy an evening of laughter on Sept. 9 as Pat McGann, co-founder of Lucy’s Comedy, takes the stage.
“Pat and I sat down one day 16 years ago as the Great Recession was hitting and said we should try a comedy club,” says Kuranda. “He’s toured the world three or four times, had sold out shows at the Chicago Theatre and is just an amazing voice of Chicagoland.”
There’s much more to come, as Greenroom Improv continues its monthly improv show, Lucy’s Comedy resumes and the holiday season approaches.
For the latest information and to order tickets, head to rauecenter.org. ❚
Raue Center for the Arts is located at 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake, (815) 356-9212.