Russell Simmons Def Poetry Jam, winner of the 2003 Tony Award for Best Special Theatrical Event, brings its energy and wit to The Legendary Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., for one performance only, Saturday, Nov. 20, at 7 p.m. Featuring the ‘best of the best’ from the Broadway production, the cast includes many of the performers who electrified New York and became the surprise sensation of the season. Russell Simmons Def Poetry Jam is conceived and presented by Russell Simmons and Stan Lathan and directed by Lathan. In Chicago, this engagement is co-presented by Robin Tate Entertainment, TheatreDreams Chicago and Jam Theatricals.
Where the smash hit HBO series ‘Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry’ leaves off, this production takes over. This uplifting evening of contemporary entertainment brings eight performance poets with a new American voice together on stage. The result is an exuberant, insightful and comedic look at who we are and where we are today. The cast includes original Broadway cast members Black Ice, Georgia Me, Lemon, Poetri, Staceyann Chin and Suheir Hammad, along with Shihan, Flaco Navaja and Ishle Yi Park. DJ Reborn provides music.
Tickets, priced at $20-$35, are available by calling (312) 902-1500; visiting The Chicago Theatre box office and all Ticketmaster Ticket Centers; and online at www.
ticketmaster.com.