Club MAC, the intimate, cabaret series launched in 2006 at the McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage returns for the 2009-2010 season with a host of new artists, including bluegrass, folk, a contemporary string quartet, blues, and even a jug band.
All Club MAC performances are housed in the 200-seat Theatre 2 and begin at 8 p.m.
Club MAC offers patrons an opportunity to get closer to the action, in a setting with limited division between the audience and stage. With a choice between traditional theater seats and cabaret tables, concert goers can enjoy wine and other refreshments while taking in the sounds of some of the world’s most talented performers.
“What makes Club MAC so unique is that the audience really feels part of the show,” said MAC Director Stephen Cummins. “The intimate performance space affords concert-goers a connection you just don’t find at larger venues.”
The 2009-2010 Club MAC season kicks off Oct. 16 and 17 with Alison Brown. With her blue-jazz, pop-grass sound, Brown uncovers a musical voice in her banjo which transforms the down-home country sound into a fluid, sweet sound all its own. Tickets are $34 for adults, $32 for seniors and $24 for students and youth for regular seats and $40, $38 and $30 for cabaret table seating.
Singer-songwriter Sara Hickman continues the season with her inspiring music and genuine lyrics Nov. 27 and 28. The Texas native provides a unique view of life in music that demands attention and soothes the soul. Tickets are $34 for adults, $32 for seniors and $24 for students and youth for regular seats and $40, $38 and $30 for cabaret table seating.
A holiday treat sure to please, Turtle Island Quartet presents “Solstice Celebration” Dec. 18 and 19. Blending winter music from around the world, the contemporary string quartet weaves Vince Guaraldi’s beloved tunes from “A Charlie Brown Christmas” with traditional Scottish reels, Chanukah music and others for a world music holiday experience. Tickets are $36 for adults, $34 for seniors and $30 for student and youth for regular seats and $40, $38 and $30 for cabaret table seating.
Master bluesman John Hammond presents a solo-acoustic set, showcasing his more than 40 years experience entertaining audiences around the world for performances January 8 and 9. The Grammy Award winner has worked with Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker and Howlin’ Wolf. Tickets are $34 for adults, $32 for seniors and $24 for students and youth for regular seats and $40, $38 and $30 for cabaret table seating.
The quirky White Ghost Shivers close out the Club MAC series at March 5 and 6 with their blend solid tunes and fun musical characters. The eight-piece ensemble’s joyous mix of the absurd and sublime resonates through their set, which includes Hokum blues, hillbilly swing, country and hot jazz. Tickets are $34 for adults, $32 for seniors and $24 for students and youth for regular seats and $40, $38 and $30 for cabaret table seating.
This popular series typically sells out, but MAC fans are guaranteed to get the best seats in the house before individual tickets go on sale by purchasing a MAC Pack. MAC Pack purchases save up to 15 percent off individual ticket prices, offer free ticket exchanges up to 24 hours before an event and give purchasers customized seating based on their preferences. Plus, MAC Pack subscribers pay a one-time processing fee for the entire season and receive special offers to MAC touring events.
For more information, call the MAC Box Office at (630) 942-4000.