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Hi.

My name is Gary Zidek. Welcome to The Arts Section. Tune into the radio program every Sunday morning on WDCB 90.9 & 90.7 FM or listen to it online here. I'll be showcasing a variety of arts & entertainment stories.

Holiday Story Goes From Page to Stage

Holiday Story Goes From Page to Stage

WDCB’s Gary Zidek talks to cabaret performer and arts administrator Denise McGowan Tracy about the children’s book and now musical that she created titled ELEANOR’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS WISH.

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WDCB's Gary Zidek talks to Denise McGowan Tracy about the children's book and musical she created.

“What is it about the holidays that we wish could be spread throughout the year, that joy, that cheer, that giving, that caring, that kindness, so that was the genesis to write this story.” - Denise McGowan Tracy talking about the origins of ELEANOR’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS.

Samantha Bonzi as Eleanor. Photo credit: Matt Ferguson

Samantha Bonzi as Eleanor. Photo credit: Matt Ferguson

A new holiday musical aims to fill a niche in the Chicago-area theater world. Denise McGowan Tracy is the creator of the world premiere musical ELEANOR’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS WISH. The production is based on McGowan-Tracy’s children’s book of the same title. First published in 2015, ELEANOR’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS WISH tells the story of doll who wants to find a new home and friend.

Erin Parker as Cookie Claus and David Turrentine as Santa in ELEANOR’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS WISH.

Erin Parker as Cookie Claus and David Turrentine as Santa in ELEANOR’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS WISH.

ELEANOR’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS WISH is running at the Greenhouse Theatre Center on Lincoln Avenue through December 29. You can find more information at eleanorswish.com

A Conversation With Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events Commissioner Mark Kelly

A Conversation With Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events Commissioner Mark Kelly

It's a Foley Life: Creating Sounds On Stage

It's a Foley Life: Creating Sounds On Stage