& AE EDITION THEATER
‘The Wizard of Oz’ PAGE 8
•
MAY 2018
SPECIAL SECTION:
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Literary ARTS
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Summer concert guide PAGE 28
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INSIDE
A&E 8 BROADWAY BEAUTY The face behind Paramount Theatre’s iconic characters PLUS+ Not-to-miss musicals of 2018-19
SPECIAL SECTION: THE LITERARY ARTS 12 LIFE-CHANGING LITERATURE Librarians, bookstore staff weigh in on reads that left their mark 14 THE WORD ON REPUBLIC OF LETTERS Geneva literary center a school of thought for bibliophiles, writers
28
CONCERT CRAZE
Music-lovers guide to summer Photos provided
16 OVERCOMING THE ODDS Independent bookstores turn the page on difficult days
BUSINESS & CIVIC 20 LOVE IS SWEET Artist Esther Roby an essential ingredient to success of All Chocolate Kitchen in Geneva
FAMILY IN FOCUS
HOME & LIFESTYLE 26 MAGNOLIAS Stars of the South populating northern landscapes
OUT & ABOUT 28 CONCERT CRAZE Music-lovers guide to summer 30 ART AROUND TOWN Hundreds of artist to descend on Kane County for summer festivals PLUS+ St. Charles Fine Art Show preview 32 HAPPY TRAILS From paths designed for distance sports to those more suitable for a casual stroll, the park district provides a variety of trail experiences 33 BOOK NOOK Behind-the-scenes reads of stage and screen 34 CALENDAR See what’s happening in Kane County this month!
23 SUBURBAN SUPERDAD: Diary of a manly ‘dance dad’
4 | MAY 2018 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
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Editor's Note Though I’ve always appreciated theater, I don’t have a single acting bone in my body. However, as youth and ignorance – or, more likely, a shallow talent pool – would have it, a lack of skill in this particular art form didn’t stop me from becoming the Wicked Witch of the West in my elementary school’s production of “The Wizard of Oz.” (Quite an ambitious undertaking by my fifth grade drama teacher, I might add.) Apparently, I was a perfect fit for witch, as it only required the memorization of a couple of lines; I got to “pretend fly” around the gymnasium on a broomstick; and a knack for cackling outweighed the need for a quality singing voice. I pulled off a decent performance as the witch. (Although, at 10, I’m pretty sure I thought everything I did was great.) But it was the costuming, hair and makeup that really brought the character to life. The first time I looked in the mirror – black, stringy hair and lifeless green paint complete with a drawn-on wart and cavernous black lines to accentuate the fact that I was not only ugly, but old, too – I thought, “Whoa, I look scary. Perfect!” The transformation transported me from gangly tomboy to Oz’s ultimate villain with a penchant for revenge.
Though cosmetic artists and designers get little praise for their work in plays and musicals, they are the visionaries who fully catapult a character into existence. Which is why we’re pulling back Paramount Theatre’s velvet curtain to spotlight Aurora resident Katie Cordts, the wig, hair and makeup manager/designer, responsible for iconic character transformations. For two years, Cordts has worked tirelessly on Paramount’s Broadway musicals, collaborating with the costume designer to conceptualize characters from famous musicals, such as “Cats,” “Sweeney Todd,” “The Little Mermaid,” and many more. In addition to performance art, we’re including a special section on the often undervalued literary arts, and showcasing this summer’s top fine arts festivals and headlining music acts. Thanks for reading,
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND SPECIALTY PUBLISHING Laura Shaw 630-427-6213 lshaw@shawmedia.com EDITOR Kara Silva 630-427-6209 ksilva@shawmedia.com
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on the
COVER
For the A&E edition, Kane County Magazine takes a look behind Paramount Theatre’s curtain to spotlight the person responsible for breathing life into the Broadway characters we know and love, from Dorothy Gale (on the cover) in “The Wizard of Oz” to Ariel in “The Little Mermaid.” Katie Cordts (pictured), Paramount’s wig, hair and makeup manager and designer, is the face behind every character concept. Find out more about the Aurora resident, on Page 8. Photo by RON MCKINNEY Cover Hair and Makeup: KATIE CORDTS Model: SHANNON (COVER)
6 | MAY 2018 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
Published by Shaw Media 333 N. Randall Road, Suite 2 St. Charles, IL 60174 Phone: 630-845-5288 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
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Kane County Magazine is available by subscription for $24 a year. If you would like each month’s edition mailed to your home, send payment information and address to Kane County Magazine, 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 or via email at subscriptions@shawmedia.com. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
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BEAUTY THE FACE BEHIND PARAMOUNT THEATRE’S CHARACTER CONCEPTS By ALLISON HORNE | Photos by RON MCKINNEY
Katie Cordts (left), Paramount Theatre’s wig, hair and makeup manager and designer
Behind every character concept in any theater production, is a person dedicated to bringing a story to life through the application of makeup and the styling of hair. At the Paramount Theatre in Aurora, that someone is Katie Cordts.
logging hours backstage at every show where she would do quick changes and help actors and actresses in and out of their wigs. Her skill set eventually landed her a teaching gig at Roosevelt College to share her makeup knowledge, as well as a part-time job at the Paramount Theatre designing hair and makeup.
While her cosmetic designs vary from production to production, Cordts admits that she likes working on period pieces, such as “Sweeney Todd,” because it allows her to incorporate her art history minor into the characters.
“It was a lot,” Cordts says, noting that it wasn’t the easiest design project. “I had a lot to learn.”
“Every day is really different depending on where we are at in the process of the show,” Cordts says. “Some days, I do research. Sometimes I’m building a wig for the show; sometimes I’m styling the wigs or doing maintenance. It keeps things interesting.”
Obviously something went well, because the Paramount Theatre continued to ask her back for its shows. The gig eventually led to Cordts “It just felt so much better and comfortable,” becoming the full-time wig, hair and makeup Cordts says. manager and designer. She’s now been working After college, Cordts got a job working as a show at the Aurora theater as a full-time employee for runner for the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, four seasons – just over two year.
Cordts is currently in the throes of the planning process for two of next season’s Broadway series productions, “The Wizard of Oz” and “Legally Blonde.” The designer says she expects there will be about 60 wigs in “Legally Blonde,” and she is still in the process of conceptualizing the characters in “The Wizard of Oz.”
Cordts, who grew up in Clarendon Hills, worked on costume design in high school and went on to study it at DePaul University in Chicago. But, after taking some makeup design classes with DePaul professor Nan Zabriskie, Cordts decided to change gears and began working on makeup and wigs for cast members in theater productions.
8 | MAY 2018 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
Her first show at the Paramount was “CATS.”
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“We can’t just put a dude in a lion suit,” Cordts says, laughing. “It’s a fun collaboration with the costume designer, but we’re not sure how we want to represent him yet. We have so many question marks because we don’t want the munchkins and the tin man to be the same as the movie.” “The Wizard of Oz” also will feature puppets, so Cordts has been tasked with designing the puppet operators’ look, as well.
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One of her most challenging, yet rewarding, productions thus far was last year’s “The Little Mermaid.” “It was really fun to design,” Cordts says. “It was interesting to figure out what a person playing a crab looks like. It was a challenge because it can really be anything.” She says the lead character of Ariel, a mermaid, proved difficult because the character’s hair is so iconic. Cordts wanted to get the color, style and flow of it just right. “It’s exciting when you see something come to life,” Cordts says. “When you’ve listened to what the director has to say; read the play; serviced the director and what the play needs; [and] worked with the costume designer and found the happy place for the hair that just fits – it’s exciting.” While designing wigs and makeup for staged shows at the Paramount has been a wonderful experience for Cordts, it has turned into so much more the artist, who met her now-fiancé, sound engineer Phil Wooding, at the theater. They’re due to be married next summer at the Two Brothers Roundhouse in Aurora. The couple lives in Aurora with their adopted dog, a retired greyhound. “I never thought I’d be where I am right now,” Cordts says. “And I feel like I’m exactly where I want to be.”
-Continued on page 10 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2018 | 9
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“ONCE” APRIL 25–JUNE 3 Based on the Oscar-winning movie, this eight-time Tony Award-winning musical dives into the lives of Guy and Girl and their whirlwind romance that started with fixing a broken vacuum cleaner. The performance is rated PG-13 for language and mild sexual innuendo. Tickets cost between $36 and $64.
“LEGALLY BLONDE” SEPT. 5–OCT. 21 What’s not to love about Elle Woods? After being dumped by her Harvard Law School-bound boyfriend, the UCLA Delta Nu sorority girl is determined to win him back by getting into the same law school – and all while looking her best. While it first debuted in 2007, director Trent Stork is planning on putting a new, fresh spin on the production in the context of 2018. This production is rated PG-13 for some profanity and sexual references. Tickets cost between $36 and $69.
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“THE WIZARD OF OZ” NOV. 14, 2018–JAN. 6, 2019 Get whisked away to the land of Oz with Dorothy Gale and her unique group of friends as they take on the Wicked Witch of the West and her evil flying monkeys. Director Amber Mak, who is originally from Kansas, performed in “The Wizard of Oz” eight times throughout her career and is now recreating the classic tale at the Paramount as a director. Tickets cost between $36 and $69.
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“THE PRODUCERS” FEB. 6–MARCH 17, 2019 Based on the 1967 film of the same name, this Mel Brooks musical adaptation of “The Producers” is the hilarious story of two theatrical producers who try to get rich by overselling a Broadway flop, which, in turn, is unexpectedly successful. This performance is rated PG-13 for strong language, sexual humor and adult content. Tickets cost between $36 and $69.
“AUGUST RUSH” APRIL 24–JUNE 2, 2019 For the first time ever, “August Rush” will hit the stage in the musical adaptation of the Oscar-nominated film. Tony winner John Doyle is directing the production, which will open in Arlington, Virginia, before making its way to the Paramount. The performance will not have an orchestra, but, instead, the actors will play all of the instruments live on stage. Don’t miss the beautiful story of Evan, a music-obsessed 11-year-old orphan, as he maneuvers through the world looking for his parents. Tickets cost between $36 and $69.
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2018 | 11
A love letter to the literary arts:
BOOKS THAT LEFT THEIR MARK By SHONDA DUDLICEK
Books can offer insight, empower, uplift, nourish the soul, make you think and challenge your beliefs. Whether you’re an avid reader or average a book a year, it’s difficult to forget the books that have left their mark. From librarians to brickand-mortar bookstore owners and clerks, here are the recommended life-changing reads offered by local purveyors of the written word:
HERMINDA SPENCER Hoffman Estates JOB: Co-owner, Elgin Books and Coffee READ: “The Girl with a Brave Heart: A Story from Tehran” by Rita Jahanforuz “I wanted to read this because it was a tale from Tehran, where I was raised. It’s just beautiful. Every young adult should read it; it’s really good. The moral of the story is no good deed goes unpunished. When you’re ugly and bad on the inside, it shines through, even if you are beautiful on the outside.” JULIE LONGO | Elgin JOB: Part-time employee, Town House Books and Café in St. Charles READ: “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott “I read it when was home sick with the flu, and it was a cozy, family kind of book. Sure, they had their trials and tribulations, but the family was there and everyone cared for each other. All the sisters were very different, but very supportive of each other. That struck me as a young girl.” TISH CALHAMER | Elgin JOB: Community engagement manager, Gail Borden Public Library District in Elgin READ: “The Bees” by Laline Paull “A book I read a few years ago that I will never forget is Laline Paull’s 2014 novel ‘The Bees.’ This dazzling and imaginative tale takes us deep into a beehive, which is recast as a totalitarian society with Elizabethan culture thrown in. The ultimate authority figure is the Queen of course, and all must serve her. Flora 717 was born a lowly sanitation worker bee, fit only to clean the hive by removing the dead. But Flora has special talents, and in an unprecedented series of moves, works her way up from sanitation bee to pollen forager to handmaid of the Queen herself. The structure and machinations of society, the politics and backstabbing, the lack of individual freedom, and other issues are played out by the bees, but the book’s power and impact is such that you will forget you are reading about bees! As I read ‘The Bees,’ I pondered how our society limits the opportunities of those who are not born a certain class or race. While reading some of the more horrifying moments, I realized those scenes were frighteningly close to our present-day reality. I learned a lot about human beings reading about bees!” EDITH G. CRAIG | DeKalb JOB: Director, St. Charles Public Library District READ: “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton “If you have asked any other librarians, you know ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
that you won’t ever just get one book! Different books impact me in various ways: career, life, family, personal goals, etc. One of the books that has had the greatest impact on me is “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton. When I read the book the first time, I saw it through the eyes of a young Hispanic adolescent who struggled with the same ethical instances that demanded blind faith to troublesome friends yet undermined my staunch family morals. I read the book many times after that to try to understand the rules that society placed on me, my old friends, my new friends and my family. It was something I could relate to as I tried fitting in with my new school and friends. As an adult, I enjoy re-reading the book because it reminds me of where I was and where I am now. It reminds me that I have the power to change my circumstances and not to fall prey to unfavorable [societal] norms. It’s a great book, nonetheless for anyone wanting to read a classic.” JAMES STICKLING | Batavia JOB: Co-owner, The Book Shop in Batavia READ: “The Heart is a Lonely Hunter” by Carson McCullers “The first book that came to mind was ‘The Heart is a Lonely Hunter’ by Carson McCullers. Taking place in the South, it deals with many facets of the human experience, such as race, coming of age and relationships. McCullers is able to shift perspectives in the book; all of them centering around a deaf mute. The book is bordering on the forgotten among 20th century literature, but I have personally sold 15 copies since beginning this venture in October of 2017. I plan to keep this book alive, as well as many others on the precipice of literature’s forgotten.” STACEY PETERSON Batavia JOB: Manager, adult services/ outreach services, Batavia Public Library READ: “Young Men and Fire” by Norman Maclean “A powerful and moving account of smokejumpers’ deaths in a forest fire, written in a beautiful, stark style, by a man reaching the end of his own life.” SCOTT NOBLITT | North Aurora JOB: Supervisor, circulation services, Sugar Grove Public Library READ: “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley “There are so many books I’ve read, it’s so hard to choose. Growing up, ‘Harry Potter’ was the biggest one and my favorite. But ‘Brave New World’ was the book in high school I discovered during required reading. It was a great setting and an interesting vision of the future. I’m a fan of [dystopian] novels and I hadn’t read something like that before. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
Orwell said ‘what we hate will ruin us’ but Huxley said ‘what we love will ruin us’: indulgence.”
ART SUPPLIES·CLASSES·FRAMING·GALLERY
SABINE VORKOEPER Elburn JOB: Circulation clerk, Town and Country Public Library in Elburn READ: “The Razor’s Edge” by W. Somerset Maugham “[It’s] anti-establishment and that was appealing to me to read about someone who was born to privilege and chose a different path to wealth. That tells you I was a rebel.” CARRIE WOLINSKI | Batavia JOB: Circulation clerk, Geneva Public Library READ: “Gone with the Wind” by Margaret Mitchell “It’s a fascinating story, and I always love Civil War history, and it was something I really enjoyed.” TABATHA ANDERSON | Sycamore JOB: Librarian/coordinator of Grade School Services, Gail Borden Public Library, Elgin READ: “Harry Potter” series by J.K. Rowling “When I was a child, my family lived outside the city limits so we didn’t have a library card; but that didn’t stop my mom from taking me and my two sisters to the library for a morning of reading almost every Saturday. Some Saturday mornings, I would finish the book I was reading, and some Saturday mornings, I would put the book back and cross my fingers it was still there when we came back so I could finish it. When I was old enough, I started walking to the library after school with friends. On one of those walks, I remember I could not stop talking about the “Harry Potter” series – hoping it was available and telling my friend all about it. Looking back now, I think that series had a great impact on my life because it solidified my love of stories, and – more importantly – for a librarian, it sparked my love of sharing books and helping others find amazing books that are [exciting] to read. I try to re-read the “Harry Potter” series every summer, and I still get lost in the story.”
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2018 | 13
Geneva literary center a school of thought for bibliophiles, writers By ALLISON HORNE
When society has turned to electronics and 280 characters as the extent of daily reading, there’s something to be said about brick-andmortar bookstores that offer actual books. What’s even better is when there’s a passionate group of people waiting to discuss any and all literary topics with the goal of engaging people, stimulating and satisfying minds, and helping people better understand themselves and others through literary engagement. Cue Republic of Letters in Geneva. Named after a community in the 17th and 18th centuries that was credited with fostering the intellectuals during the Age of Enlightenment, Geneva’s Republic of Letters is hoping to do the same. After forming as a nonprofit in March 2017, the group opened a storefront in Geneva in March 2018, which is now home to a literary center and bookstore, and also offers publishing services. Executive director Ryan Block and program director Cathy Borders say that the response so far has been fantastic.
14 | MAY 2018 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
“We have found that while it is enjoyable to have a used bookseller in the area of downtown Geneva, the greatest response has come from those who want to write, and have lacked the encouragement, or space, or conversation necessary to embark upon or complete such a project,” Block and Borders wrote in an email. Block and Borders first met at The New School in New York while studying to earn MFAs in creative writing. According to the duo, they have completely different styles – Block is more interested in political science and history, while Borders tends to be drawn to beautiful things with happy endings. “We’re both avid readers, but in different directions, which always makes for delightful and interesting conversation,” they wrote. But after teaching, running a small press and leading creative workshops after school, they came to a realization that led to the concept behind the Republic of Letters. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
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“We discovered that our MFAs were, in the end, unnecessary,” Block and Borders wrote. “Our best teachers didn’t come from school, but from our personal network of those we know: our friends, other writers, people we met in various workshops and retreats, and people who just wanted to talk about writing – about what it means to them, [and] how for some, it’s bodily, often painful, but for other[s], it’s just fun.” Programs at the Republic of Letters include children’s, young adult and adult classes, literary discussion groups, writing workshops, editing suites and book clubs. They also take suggestions for groups or classes, most of which are run by local volunteers.
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“Our classes and workshops are ways for members of the community to come and pool their knowledge and experience,” Block and Borders wrote. “If someone wants to share their knowledge of a particular genre [or] sub-genre – be it pop-up poetry or the under-sung women of the [female] canon – then we can provide a space where that can happen.” Whether it’s Instagram poetry, a passion for Carl Jung or journaling, the Republic of Letters is a safe haven for thought, writing and literary discussion. “We believe that no matter your form, or your style, all of it’s valid – traditionally educated or not,” Block and Borders wrote. “Writing your story can liberate you … it can give your life a new sheen or even a new purpose.”
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2018 | 15
OVERCOMING THE ODDS INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORES TURN THE PAGE ON DIFFICULT DAYS By STEPHANIE N. GRIMOLDBY | Photos by KARA SILVA
W
hen Joan O’Leary’s great niece Nora, 13, and nephew James, 10, visit her from Brooklyn, one of their first stops is to Town House Books and Café in St. Charles. “Always, always, this is one of the first items on their list to do,” says O’Leary of St. Charles. “They each can get two books. And we always eat in the café. They start reading their books at that table.” Independent book shops are few and far between in the Fox Valley region. But those still operating have a few things in common: They have successfully weathered the Great Recession of the late 2000s and early 2010s, albeit having their own unique business models; they have retained a strong customer base; and they provide an experience that online book sellers cannot replicate. Town House, for instance, has been a cornerstone of St. Charles since Mary Lou Kelly opened the shop in 1974. David Hunt bought the business from Kelly in 1992, but he still caters to some of her customers. O’Leary is one of them. Online book retailers can recommend a book for a 15-year-old boy, O’Leary says. But if she talks to Hunt or manager Heidi Schmidt, they can ask about his interests and hobbies and find a better suited option to pique his interest. “They’ve done this many times,” O’Leary says. “It’s just the most hospitable environment there. It’s a book-lover’s treasure, and I mean that sincerely.” Those experiences, along with personalized shopping aids – like Post-it notes located throughout the store with book recommendations by staff members – have created lasting relationships with customers,
16 | MAY 2018 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
who, in turn, choose to spend their money at the local shop instead of online, Hunt says. “People are often asking, ‘How are you able to be there after all these years and compete?’” he says. “My short answer is because we’ve been here for the long haul, and we love what we do, and we love our customers, and they support us.” Town House felt the impact of the recession, but as a smaller boutique business, Hunt had control over inventory and was able to fine-tune his book selection based on need. Big chain stores didn’t have that luxury, he says.
espresso bar, says Herminda Spencer, who opened the Elgin shop in 2005 with her twin sister, Glorinda Theofanis. Town House Books and Café in St. Charles
Another major boost to Town House’s continued success has been its full-service restaurant, which has been run by Hunt’s spouse and business partner, Doug Bella, since it opened in 1996. “That helps us tremendously,” Hunt says. “The café help[s] pull different clientele. People come in for lunch, and then they browse.” Similarly, Elgin Books and Coffee has weathered ups and downs in the used book industry by leaning on the sales of its coffee/ ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Ironically, the recession years were very good for the bookstore, Spencer says.
“People still wanted to read, but I think newer books, as far as the price, were up there,” Spencer says. “People went to used books, which was more affordable. So, that helped us.” Still, the sisters always had a constant stream of pictures, knick knacks and other items to boost sales – “anything that helped the business,” Spencer says. “Books alone wasn’t going to cut it.” Elgin Books and Coffee also sells books on Amazon – and ships them for free to local www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
“I have hope. I really do have hope. There is still a strong core of readers that want to hold the book in their hand[s] and have that tactile memorable experience of turning pages.” – JUDI BROWNFIELD, former owner of Books at Sunset in Elgin
SPRINGTIME in Ge Geneva
Bring your buds. If you haven’t been to Geneva lately… come! You’ll discover that something new is always popping up in this charming town, nestled on the banks of the Fox River. Geneva’s historic downtown features over 100 specialty shops for unique clothing, accessories, home décor, antiques, chocolates and gourmet foods. Pamper yourself and stay the weekend! Call your friends and plan your adventure at genevachamber.com. We’ll be waiting.
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customers – which means it doesn’t have to rely on foot traffic. “That helped us stay afloat,” Spencer says. “That was absolutely huge. Without that, we probably would have made it, but maybe not – I’m not sure.” Judi Brownfield owned the used book shop Books at Sunset in Elgin for 16 years before she closed in 2016, and she remembers the 2000s and 2010s vividly. “The recession hammered us,” Brownfield says. “A good segment of the reading population at that point in time were the retirees and busy young families. When the recession hit, their budgets changed.” Brownfield managed to keep her store open by laying off staff, expanding hours and becoming more aggressive with programming. She learned how to promote her store on Facebook to engage the community and help remind patrons she was still there. -Continued on page 18 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
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Hours: Tues. - Fri. : 9am-8pm Sat. : 9am-5pm • Sun. : 10am-4pm KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2018 | 17
-Continued from page 17 Somehow, her endeavors worked. And, in 2016, when she was ready to retire, she was able to close her doors on her own terms, not as a defeated shop owner who fell to the recession. Despite the strengthening of digital books, the 70-year-old has a bright outlook on the future of book shops, noting that even online giant Amazon recently opened a brick-and-mortar store. “I have hope,” she says. “I really do have hope. There is still a strong core of readers that want to hold the book in their hand[s] and have that tactile memorable experience of turning pages … . Lingering in long aisles of stacked books has a great romantic lure to it. You don’t get that when you’re at home in your pajamas.” Husband and wife team James Stickling and Lizzy Evensen are counting on that romantic lure to help grow their new used book business. Against the odds, the couple opened The Book Shop last fall in Batavia. “There was a lot of grimacing when I would share the idea with a lot of people,” says Stickling, 41. “And I knew I would [get that reaction]. There’s an immediate dismissal that occurs when you talk about this.” Stickling simply ignored the doubters. “I figured nobody knew how many people like me there actually are,” Stickling says. “[There are] people who love going to bookstores. They don’t want to go to a chain. They want to go to an independent book shop where they know the person behind the counter; they want the person behind the counter to know them … there’s a relationship there.”
18 | MAY 2018 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
The Book Shop in Batavia Photo by Mark Foster
LOVE IS SWEET
Artist Esther Roby an essential ingredient to success of All Chocolate Kitchen By MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE | Photo by RON MCKINNEY
T
hough she may be thousands of miles away from the cobblestone streets of Rome, Italy, Esther Roby says her adopted hometown brings to mind memories of her youth. “Geneva reminds me of a little town in Europe,” Roby says.
already hard at work at this year’s new event – the Insane Candy Cane 5K Run and Reindeer Family Romp. The race will raise money for local organizations. It will bring runners to the front door of All Chocolate Kitchen for treats and, new this year, there will be an extra large candy cane.
It was those first impressions of Geneva that paved the way for Roby and her husband to set down roots in the community by purchasing a family home just a short walk from the downtown area. And, in 2011, they further cemented their commitment to the town when they launched their own business, All Chocolate Kitchen, on Third Street and later added a restaurant, Primo.
“It involves a lot of work, but – in the end – we’ll have made a difference, and there is nothing better than to give,” Esther Roby says. “This community is so inviting. This town was so welcoming.”
Visitors to the All Chocolate Kitchen are left in awe of chef Alain Roby’s life-size candy sculptures and his decadent desserts. Esther Roby’s influence in the sweet shop may be less obvious, but it remains an essential ingredient to the couple’s success. Esther Roby uses her creative talents to design the clever packaging of the shop’s products and the interior of the café and restaurant. She also directs the business’ community involvement in events and charitable programming.
Esther Roby was encouraged to develop her artistic abilities when she won a local art contest as a student in Rome. By high school, she was studying art and architecture in a city that’s home to some of the world’s most magnificent works.
Friend Cathleen Rex of Geneva says that Esther Roby may not be as famous as her awardwinning husband, but – together – they are dynamic couple that bring creativity and beauty to their business and adopted hometown. “Her [artistic] talent is something a lot of people aren’t aware of,” says Rex, adding that she loves to pop into the shop for a cappuccino or gelato and catch up with her friend. “She’s so creative, kind and generous.” Esther Roby was involved in last year’s Ooh La La Chocolate 5K Run in November, and she’s
20 | MAY 2018 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
Esther Roby first came to Geneva to show her artwork at local galleries, and it didn’t take long before the charming community tugged at her heart.
Her life changed completely after a chance meeting at a New York airport as she made her way home to Italy. That’s when she met Alain, a young French chef returning to his home in London. The two were both waiting to fly on standby and, while neither of them made their flight that night in the airport terminal, they made a connection that would change their lives forever. “It was love at first sight,” she says. She was just 20 years old. The two married a little more than a month after first meeting and the whirlwind continued when the newlyweds traveled back across the ocean to New York City, where Alain Roby was selected as a chef for a top restaurant.
BUSINESS & CIVIC
Esther Roby says she and her husband grew up in different worlds and, while he sculpts masterpieces with sugar and chocolate and she paints with oil on canvas, there is no doubt that it’s love that keeps them together. They recently celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary, as well as the wedding of their eldest son. While she used to spend more time creating art, since opening All Chocolate Kitchen eight years ago, she has become more involved in the shop. When she isn’t working among the layers of chocolate and fresh gelato, the artist says that she can be found in her garden where she loves tending to her flowers, fresh herbs and vegetables. “I love to garden; it’s my escape,” she says.
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2018 | 21
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22 | MAY 2018 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
FAMILY in FOCUS
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
SUBURBAN SUPERDAD:
presents
Music Under the Stars
DIARY OF A MANLY ‘DANCE DAD’
BAND SCHEDULE
By JONATHAN BILYK
It’s a question I’ve been afraid to ask for a while, and it centers on Antonin Dvorak.
a dental hygienist poke around my mouth with sharp metal instruments.
If you don’t know who that is, you can Google search it, or you can trust my assurances that Dvorak is one of the greatest composers to ever live.
Regardless, fast-forward three decades, and – for the past six years – I’ve chosen to sit in a dark theater for three consecutive nights in December and applaud the physical feats, artistry and athletic prowess displayed by impressive ballet dancers in sequined costumes, as they perform the holiday tradition handed down to us from composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.
Saying that, naturally, brings me back to my question. It’s been growing for quite some time, quietly, in the background of my thoughts, as Spotify plays through my headphones, and the rock musicians that still populate my playlists increasingly take a back seat to other genres, like classical.
Why? Because, for the past six years, those dancers have included my daughter and her friends, who have done nothing but impress As I’ve gotten older, my appreciation for me with their commitment to their art, dancing classical music has grown. simply for the love of performance and for the I’ve discovered that I can identify quality off-chance that they might bring a smile to classical music, and can admit with some someone’s face. (Particularly if that someone degree of certainty that I actually have a favorite may have thought, several years ago, that he’d classical composer. prefer a dental exam to the ballet.) But what does this mean? At this point, I’ve shied away from the moniker On one hand, it could mean – and this is the preferred answer – that my opinion has achieved a high degree of cultural sophistication. On the other hand, however, it could mean (and result in a harsh reaction from my inner younger person) that the man has merely grown old. A similar conundrum emerged last December as I took in the 18th showing of “The Nutcracker” ballet in the last six years. Many people – and men, in particular – would rather visit the dentist than sit through a single ballet performance, let alone more than a dozen. A decade ago, despite my growing affinity for classical music and other markings of acculturation (or aging), I would have been among the number of men who would choose a dental office chair to a theater auditorium seat. Though, I like to think, being something of a pseudo-Renaissance man, that I would have undeniably preferred two evenings at the ballet before ever preferring a day devoted to allowing www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
“Dance Dad.” (Though, admittedly, if my daughter’s dance teacher is reading this, a T-shirt bearing that term might be a nice gesture relative to the amount of money transferred from my bank account.) But give me a few more years. While my inner uncouth younger, former self needs a bit of time to process it all, he may yet just come around – especially if a T-shirt is part of the deal. Jonathan Bilyk writes about the triumphs and travails of being a modern-day dad who legitimately enjoys time with his family, while tolerating a dog that seems to adore him. He also doesn’t really like the moniker “Superdad” because it makes it sound like he wants to wear his undergarments on the outside of his pants. (Also, the cape remains on back order.) FAMILY in FOCUS
Bands Preform: 7-10pm
April May
27th..... Wally Swiatly
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June
1st ....... Greg Boerner 15th..... Mason Rivers 22nd.... Mary Hunt 29th .... Wind Gypsies
July
6th ...... Dave Eno 13th..... Davenport 20th .... Wally Swiatly 21st ..... Champagne Sunday 27th..... Dennis O’Brien
August
3rd ...... Mason Rivers 10th..... Dennis Caravello 17th..... Ron Porter Trio 24th..... Billy Croft Trio 31st ..... Wind Gypsies *Tasting Notes features a Special Dinner Pairing Some bands and times may change please call restaurant, checkout www.foxfiregeneva.com, or facebook for more information.
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2018 | 23
W ST YLE is your HOME …. D ttti & “TLC “?
Now that “Spring” weather has finally arrived...time to take a look at the Exterior of your Home…. What condition is the Siding? Trim? Shutters? Roof? Front Door? Patio Doors? Windows? Could you improve your “view” by changing the style or size of your windows?
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MAGNOLIAS Stars of the South populating northern landscapes With MEAGAN PROVENCHER
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love visiting the South, specifically Georgia and South Carolina, and I’ve always been envious of the gorgeous Magnolias littered throughout the southern landscape. Large flowers, hearty thick leaves, true harbingers of spring – but not quite hardy up in these parts.
26 | MAY 2018 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
The old-fashioned Saucer Magnolia still dots the northern area, showing off its huge blooms in April and then quietly fading into the rest of the landscape. But, until recently, the Saucer didn’t have many brethren other than the Star Magnolia to share with the gardening public. But now, we have a healthy list of awesome, hardy Magnolias that will wow gardeners with early spring blooms in a multitude of colors, sturdy leaves, and good disease and insect resistance. Hybridization techniques have resulted in later bloom times (so as to not get hit by late frosts causing the flowers to fall off), as well as smaller plants that will fit in compact landscapes. HOME & LIFESTYLE
Though not a complete list of Northern Magnolias, here are some of my favorites: ELIZABETH Butter yellow flowers on this hybrid will wow you in early spring. This young lady comes from what is called the “Little Girls Series,” a group of hybridized Magnolias that are hardy, come in multiple colors and all stay in a semidwarf state of about 15- to 20-feet tall. Others in the Series include Jane, Ricky and Anne, among others. All of them have large blooms in shades of yellow, pink, white and purple.
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WATERLILY A petite Star Magnolia that is crowded with white flowers that have some blush pink to them. Heavily fragranced, star-like flowers bloom later than the traditional “Royal Star” Magnolia. Its attractive rounded shape allows it to be used as a large shrub or trained into a small tree. LEONARD MESSEL One of my favorite pink varieties that have delicate, blush pink flowers with heavy petals. The flower buds are dark fuchsia, opening to pale pink and finish as white. This Magnolia is more upright and provides a nice, mid-sized leaf structure that allows it to be used as a small screening tree or a specimen in the yard – topping out at about 20 feet or so. BRACKEN’S BROWN BEAUTY While not the most attractive name, this new introduction is a hardy southern type, and it has the huge, thick green leaves and a fuzzy brown underside that traditional southern magnolias possess. It has large, creamy ivory flowers in spring. While it is evergreen, it will lose some leaves, but it’s an amazing specimen for winter interest. I would still locate it in a protected spot. We’ve grown one for several years at the nursery, and it’s doing wonderful. GALAXY A hybrid that looks more like an oldfashioned Saucer with its dark pink flowers that can be up to 6 inches in size. It stays narrow with youth, but will grow to about 25-feet tall and widen with age. It’s another magnolia that blooms later to avoid late frosts. Meagan Provencher is the senior landscape designer for Wasco Nursery and Garden Center in St. Charles. She can be reached at design@wasconursery.com or 630-584-4424. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
2017
HOME & LIFESTYLE
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2018 | 27
Concert craze
MUSIC-LOVERS GUIDE TO SUMMER By JONATHAN BILYK
After enduring the cold winds of winter, no one wants to stay home when the warm breezes of those wonderful summer evenings beckon. Dining al fresco, a stroll accompanied by the sound track of chirping crickets, the leaves of trees rustling overhead, and music – so much music – begging us to stop and savor those fleeting summer evenings. One of the best parts of living in the Fox Valley is knowing that summer brings with it an abundance of quality live music entertainment. Whether you choose to take in a show under the stars or in a vintage theater, here are some of the big-name acts scheduled to play at local venues this summer. (This is not a comprehensive list, as this story went to press before concert lineups were finalized.)
JUNE
JUNE 3 – 38 SPECIAL ARCADA THEATRE | ST. CHARLES With hits like “Hold on Loosely,” “Caught Up in You” and “Rockin’ Into the Night,” among many others, 38 Special’s collection of gold and platinum albums represent the enduring strength of this legendary rock band. JUNE 9 – DIANA KRALL PARAMOUNT THEATRE | AURORA Multiple Grammy Award-winning jazz pianist and singer Diana Krall will bring her soothing, sultry voice and passion for jazz to the Paramount stage for her only Chicago-area stop this spring. The musician will play original music and her takes on such classics as “The Look of Love,” “A Case of You” and many more. JUNE 10 – JUDY GARLAND: COME RAIN OR COME SHINE, STARRING ANGELA INGERSOLL PARAMOUNT THEATRE | AURORA
28 | MAY 2018 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
JULY
Ingersoll, star of musical theater show “End of the Rainbow,” lends her soaring talent to a loving JULY 4 – KOOL & THE GANG AND homage to Garland, featuring iconic songs, such THE COMMODORES as “Over the Rainbow,” “Get Happy” and “The GRAND VICTORIA CASINO | ELGIN Man That Got Away,” among others. Keeping the funk alive for decades, Kool & The JUNE 15-16 – BLUES ON THE FOX Gang will take the stage as part of Grand Victoria RIVEREDGE PARK | AURORA Casino’s Summer Concert Series, offering This year’s installment of the 22nd annual audiences a “good time tonight” every time they festival will include performances from Aaron play, with hits like “Celebration,” “Cherish” and Neville, Elle King, Sonny Landreth, Samantha “Jungle Boogie,” as well as their most recent hit, Fish, Toronzo Cannon and Brandon “Taz” “Sexy,” released two years ago. They’ll be joined Niederaurer. by funk legends The Commodores, pulling from their longstanding repertoire, including “Easy,” JUNE 22 – QUEENSRYCHE “Brick House,” “Three Times a Lady” and “Lady ARCADA THEATRE | ST. CHARLES (You Bring Me Up),” among many others. A hard rock touring legend, who made its name playing with many of the biggest names in hard JULY 14 – VINCE NEIL ARCADA THEATRE| ST. CHARLES rock and heavy metal, Queensryche continues to deliver a show with the same high octane thunder that has created a legion of loyal “metalhead” fans.
The former lead singer of heavy metal band, Motley Crue, Vince Neil continues to be a live wire on stage.
JUNE 30 – ULI JON ROTH, LEAD GUITARIST FOR THE SCORPIONS | TRIPLE ANNIVERSARY WORLD TOUR ARCADA THEATRE | ST. CHARLES
JULY 15 – ARCADA DOO WOP SHOW ARCADA THEATRE | ST. CHARLES
Celebrating the 40th anniversary of “Tokyo Tapes,” considered by many one of the greatest live rock albums ever recorded, the German-born former lead guitarist for The Scorpions, and longstanding influential guitarist, whose career has spanned five decades, continues to amaze crowds throughout the world. OUT & ABOUT
Featuring Jay Siegel’s Tokens, Larry Chance and the Earls, Freddy “Boom Boom” Cannon and Ladd Vance – son of Kenny Vance and the Planotones. JULY 27-28 – TED NUGENT ARCADA THEATRE | ST. CHARLES The Motor City Madman, “The Nuge” has toured annually since 1967, as a performer in the bands the Amboy Dukes and Damn Yankees, but www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
mostly as a solo artist. With his blend of hard classic rock and conservative political views, Nugent has amassed a rabid fan base through the decades, thanks in part to hits like “Cat Scratch Fever,” “Just What the Doctor Ordered,” “Wango Tango” and “Stranglehold,” among many more.
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AUGUST
AUG. 4 – GEORGE THOROGOOD & THE DESTROYERS, WITH SPECIAL GUEST FOGHAT RIVEREDGE PARK | AURORA These artists are guaranteed to throw a rock party, offering iconic classic rock hits, including “Bad to the Bone,” “I Drink Alone,” “Slow Ride” and “I Want to Make Love to You.” AUG. 5 – LARRY GATLIN & THE GATLIN BROTHERS ARCADA THEATRE | ST. CHARLES Dazzling audiences for more than six decades, the Gatlin Brothers will again entertain with a country-infused discography, including such hits as “Broken Lady,” “Houston (Means I’m One Day Closer to You),” “All the Gold in California” and more.
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AUG. 11 – SLAUGHTER ARCADA THEATRE | ST. CHARLES The 1980s and early ’90s hard rock band will offer up the sound and hits you remember, including “Fly to the Angels,” “Up All Night” and “Spend My Life.” AUG. 18 – GLADYS KNIGHT & THE O’JAYS RIVEREDGE PARK | AURORA Legendary winner of seven Grammy awards, Gladys Knight will delight as she pulls from her collection of hits, spanning the pop, gospel, R&B and adult contemporary genres, including “Midnight Train to Georgia,” “I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” “Every Beat of My Heart” and “Letter Full of Tears.” She will be joined by Rock & Roll Hall-of-Fame inductees, The O’Jays, hitting the stage with the verve that has allowed them a performing career spanning five decades, offering up such classics as “For the Love of Money,” “Love Train” and “I Love Music.” www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
May - September 2018
For the love of art in the park People of all ages are welcome to enjoy this magnificent free exhibit of original and unique sculpture. Interested in purchasing a piece of art or participating as a sculptor or sponsor? For more information, call 630-513-4319.
Mt. St. Mary Park is located at Rt. 31 and Prairie St. along the beautiful Fox River in St. Charles.
stcsculpture.org OUT & ABOUT
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2018 | 29
Hundreds of artists to descend on Kane County for summer festivals, fairs By AIMEE BARROWS
Summer is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to mark your calendars for all of the wonderful art shows and crafts fairs that take place in Kane County. Beginning in May, hundreds of renowned artists and artisans from all over will descend on the area to show off their one-of-kind creations. From the award-winning St. Charles Fine Art Show over Memorial Day weekend to Geneva’s Festival of the Vine craft show at the end of the season, there’s truly something to satisfy every interest.
ST. CHARLES FINE ART SHOW
ELBURN DAYS CRAFT SHOW
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 26, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 27 WHERE: Downtown St. Charles
WHEN: 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 17; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 18; and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 19 WHERE: Lions Park, 500 Filmore St., Elburn
More than 100 artists will showcase their work at the 20th annual show. (See sidebar for more details.)
GENEVA ARTS FAIR WHEN: 10 to 5 p.m. Saturday, July 28, and Sunday, July 29 WHERE: Downtown Geneva (100 S. Third St.) More than 140 juried artists will visit Geneva for this popular event, which Sunshine Artist Magazine named as one of the best 200 art festivals in the country in 2017. Some of the best artists from across the county and Canada will offer jewelry, ceramics, textiles, drawings and more for sale. For more information, visit www.genevachamber.com.
Find unique handmade gifts from your favorite crafters and explore the work of firsttime Elburn Days artisans at the late-summer celebration, which features leatherwork, woodwork, quilts, jewelry and more. For more information, visit www.elburn.com.
RIVERFEST EXPRESS CRAFT SHOW AND SMALL BUSINESS EXPO WHEN: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 18, and Sunday, Aug. 19 WHERE: Panton Mill Park, 10 N. Water St., South Elgin
Crafters, small businesses, antique dealers and more participate in this family-friendly, THE WORLD OF FAERIES weekend festival that also includes live FESTIVAL CRAFT SHOW WHEN: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 4, and entertainment, a carnival, car show and plenty of food. For more information, visit 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 5 WHERE: Vasa Park, 35W217 Rt. 31, South Elgin www.riverfestexpress.net. FESTIVAL OF THE ADMISSION: $11 for adults, $8 for seniors VINE CRAFT SHOW and free for children ages 12 and younger. WHEN: Friday, Sept. 7, through Handmade jewelry, crystals, matted prints, Sunday, Sept. 9 clay sculpture, hair accessories and many WHERE: Kane County Courthouse Lawn, other unique and eclectic gifts are available downtown Geneva at the 14th annual event that also features Guests will find handmade crafts and gifts live music and storytelling. For more from Midwest artists and crafters at this information, visit www.theworldoffaeries. popular annual event, which also celebrates com. different wines from around the world. For more information, visit www.genevachamber. com. 30 | MAY 2018 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
OUT & ABOUT
UP THIS MONTH: ST. CHARLES FINE ART SHOW Make plans to spend a day in downtown St. Charles over Memorial Day Weekend for the 20th annual Fine Art Show. More than 100 juried artists from around the country will showcase their work, which will include ceramics, digital art, drawings, jewelry, photography, glass, sculpture and more. And when you’re walking along the plaza, heading west of the river near First Street, make sure to look down. New this year is Paint the Pavement, where professional artists will amaze and delight festivalgoers with chalk art. The public also is welcome to show off their creativity by helping to decorate the sidewalks with chalk. Sue McDowell, chairwoman of the St. Charles Fine Art Show, says the show continues to draw about 20,000 visitors to the downtown area because of its reputation for bringing in some of the nation’s best professional artists. “St. Charles is happy to have an event like this,” she says. “This is a family-friendly event where people will find high-quality art in a non-intimidating, comfortable environment. You’ll see different things that you don’t get to see
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every day. Artists from all over the country will be here, so you don’t have to travel to see quality artwork.” Don’t forget to visit the Feature Tent, which is sponsored by All Things Art Studio in downtown St. Charles. Guests of all ages can paint their own canvases, decorate pottery and make their artistic mark on the collaborative mural, which will be publicly displayed in St. Charles. Some of the activities are free, while others have a small fee.
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Erin Livermore, owner of All Things Art, says that the Feature Tent is always a big hit with everyone at the festival. “We want people to explore the arts and this gives them a chance to experience hands-on activities,” she explains. “Everyone can see how the various materials work, and can help give them a better appreciation for the work of fine artists.” And back by popular demand are the free, guided historic downtown St. Charles trolley tours. Guests will learn about the city’s historic buildings and architecture in an openair vehicle. The 60-minute tours depart every two hours. For more information about the St. Charles Fine Art Show, visit www. downtownstcharles. org.
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OUT & ABOUT
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2018 | 31
HAPPY TRAILS
SO MUCH MORE TO EXPLORE IN ST. CHARLES By CAROL HAGGAS
A
s the weather warms, take to the great outdoors to venture along the St. Charles Park District’s vast and varied activity trail system. By traveling on foot or by bicycle you can bypass traffic jams and gas pumps and – instead – enjoy the scenic route through and around St. Charles and its neighboring communities. There are trails that follow the peaceful Fox River; others wind through wide open prairies or are nestled beneath dense forest canopies; while some snake through wetlands or curve past skateboard quarter-pipe ramps. In total, there are more than 20 miles of designated paths and trails – more than is typical for a city the size of St. Charles – that have been established, designed and maintained by the park district. That number rises significantly when factoring in companion trails established by other agencies. “To create these trails takes cooperation from multiple jurisdictions,” says Laura Rudow, superintendent of parks and planning, who notes that activity trails frequently cross over numerous easements and properties, and even traverse city boundaries – such as the Fox River Trail, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Kane County Forest Preserve.
Today, many cyclists can be seen enjoying the trails in and around the city, but bicycle paths weren’t even on the city’s radar until 1974. At the time, trails were viewed as an improper use of open space and a misuse of shoreline access. “I think of three major uses when we’re looking at Yet city and park district officials recognized the bike trails,” says Wessel. “One is the whole aspect positive aspects of having a local trail system. of connecting communities via routes other than In a Comprehensive Plan for the City of St. vehicular-based travel.” Charles, adopted by the City Council on Sept. 30 The notion of creating connections between cities of that year, mention was made for the first time of the city’s need for bicycle paths. And now, the and neighborhoods, of linking them by a shared park district incorporates trails in nearly half of its interest, such as activity trails, is a novel way of facilities. strengthening community ties. For example, the Fox Valley Marathon – a 26-mile race that is one “When you do an attitude and interest survey, of the qualifying events for the Boston Marathon one of the things that people resoundingly vote – begins in downtown St. Charles, taking runners for is more hiking and biking trails,” says Rudow. along the Fox River through Geneva, Batavia and “Our constituents constantly tell us that these North Aurora. are great amenities.” Deciding what a trail looks like falls under the jurisdiction of John Wessel, assistant superintendent for planning, design and construction.
32 | MAY 2018 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
OUT & ABOUT
Area Trails From extensive trails designed for distance sports to shorter paths suitable for a more casual outing, these district and area facilities provide a variety of trail experiences. (Not all park sites/trails are listed.) • CAMBRIDGE PARK – .62 miles • DELNOR WOODS PARK – .66 miles • EAST SIDE SPORTS COMPLEX – 1.73 mile loop with secondary trails • FERSON CREEK FEN – .40 mile loop • FOX CHASE PARK – .58 mile loop • FOX RIVER TRAIL – nearly 40 miles from Algonquin to Aurora • GREAT WESTERN TRAIL – 14 miles of abandoned railway from St. Charles to DeKalb County line; horseback riding available on adjacent trail • HARVEST HILLS PARK – .45 mile loop • HUNT CLUB PARK – .28 mile loop • JAMES O. BREEN COMMUNITY PARK – .8 mile loop with secondary trails • MAJESTIC OAKS PARK – .30 and .40 mile interior loops • MT. ST. MARY PARK - .73 mile loop with secondary trails • NORRIS WOODS NATURE PRESERVE – .54 miles • PECK ROAD TRAIL – 1.3 miles connecting the Great Western Trail to Geneva along Peck Road • POTTAWATOMIE PARK – .58 mile loop • PRIMROSE FARM PARK – 2.2 mile loop with secondary trails • RANDALL ROAD TRAIL – 3.7 miles connecting Great Western and Fox River Bike Trails from LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve along Randall Road • RENAUX MANOR PARK – .22 mile loop • RIVER BEND COMMUNITY PARK – .94 mile loop with secondary trails • RIVER BEND TRAIL – 4.4 miles connecting Randall Road to Fox River Trail from Silver Glen Road via bike bridge through Blackhawk Forest Preserve • TIMBER TRAILS PARK – .94 miles • VIRGIL L. GILMAN TRAIL – 9 miles of abandoned railroad right-of-ways from Montgomery to Sugar Grove with views of Fox River
Book Nook
BEHIND-THE-SCENES READS OF STAGE AND SCREEN By ALLISON MANLEY
I love plays, musicals, opera, movies and concerts – really, anything on the screen or stage. Of course, I love reading, as well. On the nights that I have some free time, I’m sometimes torn between binge-reading a book and going out to see a show. It makes sense then that I would love to read about anything performance-related; it lets me experience the drama of the theater while also enjoying a good story. Here are some books that will bring you closer to the arts:
‘HEDY’S FOLLY: THE LIFE AND BREAKTHROUGH INVENTIONS OF HEDY LAMARR, THE MOST BEAUTIFUL WOMAN IN THE WORLD’ By Richard Rhodes “Hedy’s Folly” is a biography of the famous Austrian-American actress Hedy Lamarr – but it’s not that simple. Richard Rhodes, the historian author, outlines the main events in Lamarr’s life that related to her most famous invention: spread-spectrum frequency hopping technology. Most people know Lamarr as the Hollywood actress in such golden-age films as “Samson and Delilah,” but her invention has had such a broad effect that without it, we would not have such technology as GPS and wireless internet today. There wasn’t one critical moment in Lamarr’s life that enabled her to create this genius innovation. Rhodes spends time describing a range of influences on her, like her relationship with colleague and composer George Antheil; her powerful and controlling business magnate husband Fritz Mandel; and the support of the Allied powers during World War II. Rhodes describes her pivotal spread-spectrum technology, as well as the events that led up to its patent, thoroughly aligning Lamarr’s life with the unique radio design.
‘THE NIGHT CIRCUS’ By Erin Morgenstern Set at the turn of the 20th century, “The Night Circus” is a dreamy love story. In the beginning of Erin Morgenstern’s ethereal novel, two magicians agree to each raise a protégé with the ultimate goal of having the two magicians-in-training battle when their powers are strong enough. The two young competitors, Celia Bowen and Marco Alisdair, ultimately grow in strength and meet in Le Cirque Des Rêves, also known as The Night Circus. Ultimately, the power of their magic is weak compared to the power that brings the two together: love. The story is intense, as are the descriptions of the circus itself. It’s unfortunate that the Night Circus is a fictional place, but Morgenstern’s rich details are close to the real thing – the spectacle and beauty of the Night Circus are vivid and enchanting. The love affair between conflicted Celia and starstruck Marco is swoon-worthy, and the conflicts between them (and other characters) add to the story’s excitement. The romance, the drama, and the circus itself are all woven together in a way that makes this book impossible to put down.
“Hedy’s Folly” is about an entertainer, but the book itself is an entertaining journey of a movie star’s complicated and accomplished life.
Pixies On Main Allison Manley was born in Georgia and raised in Island Lake. She graduated from Northwestern University with a degree in creative writing. She loves opera, craft beer, and (of course!) reading.
Home & Garden Decor – Gifts – Antiques – Furniture – Jewelry – Fashion Accessories Items from Local Artisans and much more In the Berry House 227 S. Third St., Suite 101, Geneva 630-457-5587
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OUT & ABOUT
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2018 | 33
Essential Care for Furs & Fine Outerwear Sheer Sensation York Signature Style Natural and Veloured Silver Blue Ice Mink Jacket
CALENDAR MAY 2018 GENE SIMMONS AT ARCADA THEATRE WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 3 WHERE: Arcada Theatre 105 E. Main St., St. Charles
The co-founder of KISS, Gene Simmons, is embarking on his first-ever solo tour. Tickets start at $100. For more information, visit www. arcadalive.com. THE ART AND SCIENCE BEHIND PIXAR FILMS WHEN: 8 to 10 p.m. Friday, May 4 WHERE: Fermilab’s Ramsey Auditorium Pine Street and Kirk Road, Batavia This lecture will feature Danielle Feinberg of Pixar. Tickets cost $7. For tickets or more information, visit events.fnal.gov/arts-lectureseries. FIRST FRIDAYS ART EVENTS IN AURORA WHEN: 5 p.m. to midnight Friday, May 4 WHERE: Various locations, downtown Aurora First Fridays is a free night of art, music and more at various downtown Aurora businesses and venues. More than 20 venues will feature gallery openings, activities, entertainment and other offerings. Free trolley rides will take place from 6 to 10 p.m. For current participating venues, visit the Aurora Downtown Facebook page. HOLLYWOOD CONFIDENTIAL WHEN: 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, May 6 WHERE: Arcada Theatre 105 E. Main St., St. Charles
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Featuring Lainie Kazan, Renee Taylor, and Connie Stevens, the special event brings long-time friends together for a peek behind the scenes in Hollywood – the lovers, friends and co-stars. The show will feature film clips, private photos and a Q-and-A with the audience. The show is for adults only. Tickets start at $59. For more information, visit www.arcadalive.com/event/ hollywood-confidential/ STRING ART PARTY ON THE PATIO WHEN: 6:30 to 9 p.m. Thursday, May 17 WHERE: FoxFire, 17 W. State St., Geneva
Elmhurst City Centre 630-832-2200
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34 | MAY 2018 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
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Foxfire (and ArtBar39) will host an art party featuring more than 50 designs to choose from. The cost is $30 a person for a board, nails and string. There will be featured drinks and food for guests select. Sign up by visiting, foxfiregeneva. com. ‘4,000 MILES’ WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 3 p.m. Sunday, running Friday, May 18, through Sunday, June 10 WHERE: Steel Beam Theatre 111 W. Main St., St. Charles www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
This 2012 Pulitzer prize finalist is a funny, moving look at two outsiders who must find their way toward each other in a complicated world. A young man suffers a major loss while on a cross-country bike trip. Like a Google map, he makes his way to the apartment of his feisty 91-year old grandmother. Over the course of a single month, these unlikely roommates cross a terrain that bewilders and infuriates as they try to reach each other. This is a Fox Valley premier of the distinguished play. For more information, visit www.steelbeamtheatre.com/4000-miles. HEART OF THE FOX RUN AND TUG WHEN: Sunday, May 20 WHERE: Pottawatomie Park 8 North Ave., St. Charles
Farm Fresh ¢ geneva french market
The day kicks off in Pottawatomie Park with a chip-timed, certified 5K walk/run course and a chip-timed, certified 10K Run. The 5K registration costs $35; and the 10K registration costs $45. Runners will receive a T-shirt, entrance to the Colonial Cafe Color Run, and an after party. Also, form a team (of 10 people) to participate in the inaugural Tug of War Competition Across The Fox River. For more information, visit www.heartofthefox. itsyourrace.com.
The Geneva French Market is an open-air European-style market that has made Geneva its home for over 17 years. Enjoy your choice of fresh vegetables and fruits of the season and so much more. Take home a bouquet of flowers to brighten your day. Stroll the aisles for fresh baked goods, honey and farm fresh eggs. At this market, treasures from myriad artisans with unique gifts for the home and your family.
MEMORIAL DAY PARADE WHEN: 10 a.m. Monday, May 28 WHERE: Downtown St. Charles 6th Street to Riverside Avenue
The Geneva French Market is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday through mid-November, located in the parking lot between Fourth and South streets near the Third Street Metra Station. For more information, visit www.bensidounusa.com.
The parade will take place at 10 a.m., stepping off at 6th and Main streets, and continuing to Riverside Avenue. New this year, the St. Charles VFW, American Legion and AMVETS will host an open house at their new facility, located in the strip mall on Route 31, directly across from the restaurant, Salernos on the River. For more information, call Mark Powell at 630-329-6444 or visit www.stcharlesgov/visitors/festivalsspecial-events. OVER THE EDGE 4 GIRL SCOUTS WHEN: Saturday, June 2 WHERE: Pheasant Run Resort 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles Outdoors enthusiasts, adventure seekers and fitness buffs ages 11 and older are invited to Over the Edge 4 Girls Scouts. Participants have the chance to raise funds on their own personal fundraising page, work with a team and be rewarded with an adventure by rappelling down a 16-story building at Pheasant Run Resort. Proceeds from the event will support Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois’ Financial Assistance Fund, which helps with membership fees, program fees and camp fees for low-income girls. For more information, visit www.girlscoutsni.org/ ote.
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¢ Primrose farm stand Find fresh food at Primrose Farmstand Nothing tastes so good as a tomato plucked right off the vine or a freshly-picked ear of corn, yet few home gardeners have the time, space or skill to put such edibles on their tables. That’s when it’s time to make a trip to the Primrose Farmstand, 5N726 Crane Road. A USDA-certified organic farm, the local Foxtrot Organic Farm plants 130-plus varieties of fruits and vegetables that Primrose chooses for their practicality in the kitchen and beauty on the plate. The Farmstand also offers fresh light brown eggs produced by Primrose Farm’s own resident Columbian Wyandotte chickens. The hours are from 2 to 6 p.m. Thursday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. For more information, visit primrosefarmpark.com.
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