Subscribers to BTE for several years, we have also attended many performances at the main stage over the years. I honestly cannot recall being disappointed at anything we attended at the main stage. However, the Susan Werner/John Gorka performance on March 26, 2010 stands spectacularly out. Both performers obviously enjoyed each other and the audience. Their music and repartee were uniformly wonderful. We can only hope that the MAC will do its best to return both performers, preferably together, back on an annual basis.
The Mac and the Buffalo Ensemble theatre group are 2 of the hidden gems of the western suburbs.Quality programming,reasonable ticket prices and ample free parking bring us back year after year.The programming is eclectic enough to pique the interest of adults and children alike.We always eagerly anticipate the announcement of the new performing arts schedule for the upcoming year. Kudos to the director and staff of the Mac for a job well done.
We attend about 8 shows a year at the Mac, and just saw White Ghost Shivers. Virtually all our selections are thumbs up and 5 stars - the variety and quality and price make it a gold mine in west-suburban entertainment.
We regularly attend student productions, Buffalo Theatre Ensemble productions, and music events at the Mac. The quality of the productions is always outstanding. The venue itself is new, comfortable, accessible, and friendly - plenty of parking, etc. And they serve refreshments! This is surely one of the best entertainment values in all of Chicago-land!
We have been "MAC" fans for years. As a family our outstanding memory is seeing the late, great Marcel Marceau in performance on the main stage. Other memorable performances include Angels in America, simultaneous productions of Hamlet and I Hate Hamlet, Hubbard Street Dance, Chuck Mangione, Judy Collins, Jim Belushi, many great jazz and blues performances. Our children were introduced to theater through McAninch children's programs. Now as young adults they remain patrons.
In an economy where the 'Finer things in Life' are not always within our budgets, the MAC provides the most bang for the buck in Chicagoland. With top talent from around the world, and creative shows developed at COD - it's a shame to think of overlooking it. Of course, you could always go into Chicago; shell-out 'Broadway-style' ticket prices, fight traffic, pay $20 to park, and skip dinner for the privilege . . . or you could take a peek at what's happening right in the heart of DuPage County.
We find ourselves going to more and more events at the MAC. The caliber of the performers is so high. There have been so many excellent performances. Parking is easy, and free. There's good restaurants nearby. Not a bad seat in the house. Good sight lines and good acoustics. Prices are reasonable. A great value. Everything about going to the MAC is good.
My husband and I have been Friends of the MAC for a number of years. We purchased our first subscription to the New Philharmonic concerts when we were looking for an alternative to driving into the loop to Symphony Center. We were impressed right away with the quality of the musicians and programming and have been loyal fans ever since. We were nervous when Musical Director/Conductor Harold Bauer retired and was replaced with Kirk Muspratt, but we have to admit Kirk has brought a new energy and enthusiasm that we enjoy immensely. We always look forward to our dates for concerts and have become annual attendees to the New Year's Eve galas - great fun! The dance and jazz performances supplement our regular attendance at the MAC. And, its all only 10 minutes away from home.
The MAC is one of the top performing arts venues in all of Chicago. The range of programming covers every aspect of both the performing and visual arts. From mainstage productions to the intimate Theatre 2 venue, The MAC provides the cultural programs that consistently enrich our lives, challenge one's thinking and captures the imagination... The performances are always top rate and the staff make the MAC a warm and friendly experience. With plenty of free parking and easy access to major highways from anywhere in the city...what's not to like??
What a great venue to watch top ranked entertainment. A very comfortable seat (more like a comfy chair), every seat with a close view of the stage. I have been to the Mac for many performances for I believe over 20 yrs now. Many well known acts have come here and you feel as if they are entertaining you in your own living room. It is especially a treat to be able to see the entertainer as well as hear them. Simply the finest theatre around, including the free ample parking. I have seen entertainment that ranges from my daughters early dance recitals, to national acts such as Penn & Teller, Mark Farmer of Grand Funk, Pat Matheny, Awesome other musical groups too many to list here.
I have been a friend of "The Mac" for well over a decade. Over that time, I have had the opportunity to enjoy countless performances and events at the Arts Center. I feel so fortunate to be able to experience such wonderful educational and cultural programs on a regular basis. And the variety of genres is so impressive! I've been able to enjoy everything from DuPage Opera Theater's Turandot to Weird Al Yankovic! I believe the McAninch Arts Center strives to provide the community with an unbelievable diversity of programs that appeal to many different tastes and they achieve that goal. I have also cherished the opportunity to introduce my children to the arts through The Mac. My daughter was in awe when she saw Swan Lake last year as she had never attended a ballet performance. And she was excited to be introduced to jazz when she saw the annual "KidJazz" performance several years ago, then thrilled to attend the FREE Jazz Fest Glen Ellyn of which The Mac is a sponsor. This is the arts presented on an exemplary level and knowing my daughter has expressed interest in becoming a singer/songwriter someday, I feel The Mac's programs are providing her with an excellent cultural foundation from which she'll draw upon for years to come. The McAninch Arts Center has helped to provide my family with a well-rounded cultural life that we cherish!