How lucky are you this month? The answer should be: Very. In a city that promotes a vibrant artistic scene—during a March where the very same city bedecks itself in All Things Irish—luck is everywhere you look. Here are three of our picks that feel like finding the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. (No leprechaun required.)
The Chicago Irish Film Festival
There’s way more to the Irish narrative than what you see by the river on St. Patrick’s Day weekend. Now in its 19th season, the Chicago Irish Film Festival showcases the best of the best in new Irish works from across the globe, whether documentary, animation or anything in between. This year’s lineup includes 30 short films screened at three northside locations and are a better bet for your slightly older crew. “Inside I’m Racing” is the story of boy with autism who dreams of driving a race car, and “Rabbit Punch” centers around a young refugee who finds a new home, courtesy of his boxing club, in case you like a little inspirational storytelling with your film-going.
March 4-8; Theatre on the Lake (2401 N. Lake Shore Drive), Logan Theatre (2646 N. Milwaukee), and Gallery Theatre: Society for the Arts (1112 N. Milwaukee Ave.), Chicago
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
For nearly half a century, the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has called the Auditorium Theatre its Chicago home base. The annual Chicago engagement is always relevant and powerful, and 2018’s lineup is no exception. Taking place over six days and with three different programs, the troupe known for its pioneering choreography will feature new works from Twyla Tharp as well as Chicago-born choreographer Talley Beatty, and each performance ends with Alvin Ailey’s “Revelations,” a stunning work that’s been viewed more than any other contemporary dance piece. (Budding dancer in your home? This is one that will, quite literally, move them.)
March 8-11; the Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Pkwy., Chicago
‘Family Day: X-Ray Vision’
Sure, they may wake you up early on weekends, but having kids pays off in spades during events like the MCA’s Family Days. Taking place on the second Saturday of every month (11 a.m.-3 p.m.), March’s take on togetherness is ‘X-Ray Vision,’ inspired by the immersive work of Paul Heyer. You’re not going to want to miss out on playing inside Claire Ashley’s inflatable sculptures, nor the chance to invent comic book characters with long-time Family Day artist Corinne Mucha. Besides the fun workshops, you’ll also be able to take advantage of gallery tours and performances—all free for kids and their pleasantly surprised grownups.
March 10; Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, 220 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago
