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The Arts Section

WDCB's Gary Zidek

The Arts Section spotlights creative people, events and ideas. Every week, WDCB's Gary Zidek shines a light on arts and culture in the Chicago area. The mission is to focus on stories within the arts community that aren't being told, with additional commentary and discussions on literature, music, film, food, special events and anything else creative.

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21 episodes
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English

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Sunday · length unknown
The Arts Section 10/04/26: Chicago Fashion Week + Night of 1,000 Jack O Lanterns
Chicago Fashion Week + Night of 1,000 Jack O Lanterns Gary Zidek On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes a closer look at Chicago Fashion Week. The celebration of local fashion is entering year 3. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review a world premiere titled BONNIE’S LAST FLIGHT. Later in the show, Gary talks with one of the country’s top jack o lantern carvers about participating in the Chicago Botanic Gardens’ annual NIGHT OF 1000 JACK O LANTERNS.
September 27 · length unknown
The Arts Section 09/27/26: What Impact Is AI Having On Artist Compensation + New Season of Chicago Stories
AI's Impact on Artist Compensation + New Chicago Stories Gary Zidek On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with a professor who specializes in copyright law to talk about AI’s impact on the arts and what the future might look like. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review a new play that imagines what Tennessee Williams and Marlon Brando’s first meeting might’ve been like. And Gary previews the upcoming season of WTTW’s Chicago Stories, which will feature episodes on the 1893 World’s Fair and the city’s history as a toy development hub.
September 21 · length unknown
The Arts Section 09/20/26: Jazz-Flavored Shakespeare + Joshua Redman Interview
Jazz-Flavored Shakespeare + Joshua Redman Interview Gary Zidek On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes a closer look at a new musical that mashes up Shakespeare’s words and Duke Ellington’s music. Theater critics Jonathan Abarbanel and Emily Werner join Gary to review the super natural play WITCH. Later in the show, WDCB’s Leslie Kerros chats with renowned saxophonist Joshua Redman ahead of his performance at the Hyde Park Jazz Fest. And Gary visits the American Writers Museum to check out an exhibit that explores the cross-over of religion into popular writing.
September 13 · length unknown
The Arts Section 09/13/26: Orchestral & Jazz Music Mix In Ambitious Ballet, New Flag Exhibit Opens + Adolescent Salvation Review
Ambitious New Ballet Opens In Chicago + Adolescent Salvation Review Gary Zidek On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek previews an exciting ballet program making its Chicago premiere. The rarely presented LILIOM features a full orchestra and jazz band. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review a new play titled ADOLESCENT SALVATION. Later in the show, Gary visits Lillstreet Art Center’s new rooftop installation that celebrates the 19th amendment and civics in general. And Gary revisits his interview with music photographer Paul Natkin.
September 6 · length unknown
The Arts Section 09/06/26: Joe Swanberg Interview + Fall Theater Preview
Filmmaker Joe Swanberg Interview + Fall Theater Preview Gary Zidek On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with renowned Chicago-based filmmaker Joe Swanberg to talk about his new movie, THE SUN NEVER SETS. Theater critics Jonathan Abarbanel and Emily Werner join Gary to preview the fall theater season, what productions are they most looking forward to? And later in the show, influencers what are they good for? Gary talks to the author a book that looks at the rise of influencer culture.
August 30 · length unknown
The Arts Section 08/30/26: Eddie Muller Brings Noir City to Chicago + Mandala's Jazz Programming
Eddie Muller Brings Noir City to Chicago + Mandala's Jazz Programming Gary Zidek On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with Turner Classic Movies host and Noir expert Eddie Muller to talk about this year’s music-themed Noir City Festival. Theater critics Jonathan Abarbanel and Emily Werner join Gary to talk about a new sci-fi play titled ADVANCE MAN. Later in the show, Gary puts a spotlight on the South Asian arts organization Mandala. And we’ll hear about a Route 66 tour through Chicago.
August 23 · length unknown
The Arts Section 08/23/26: Chicago Black Dance Legacy Project + Rosemont Museum
Chicago Black Dance Legacy Project + Rosemont Museum Gary Zidek On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek looks at the work being done by a cohort of black dance companies that have come together to help each other. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to talk about an intriguing new play that takes a more nuanced approach to human-AI relationships. Later in the show, Gary visits a new museum that covers the history of one of the Chicago-area’s most visited suburbs. And we’ll hear how a former convenient store is finding success as a concert venue.
August 16 · length unknown
The Arts Section 08/16/26: F1 Arcade Comes to Chicago + Marble Review
F1 Arcade Comes to Chicago + Marble Review Gary Zidek On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek visits a new Chicago attraction that’s aimed at fans of F1 racing. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review the new play MARBLE, that’s all about the disintegration of two marriages. Later in the show, Gary revisits a segment on the history of the Uptown Theater. And we’ll go inside a new MCA exhibit that explores the cultural impact of two music genres.
August 9 · length unknown
The Arts Section 08/09/26: New Jazz Photo Book + Yo Ho Review
New Jazz Photo Book + Yo Ho Review Gary Zidek On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek dives into a new book of jazz photography with an intriguing backstory, all the pictures were taken over 60 years ago, but were never released. Hear the story behind the new book. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review a new pirate play. And later in the show, Gary catches up with magician/artist Jeanette Andrews to talk about her first ever solo exhibition.
August 2 · length unknown
The Arts Section 08/02/26: Museum of Broadcast Communications Ready For Next Chapter + Pasta Time!
Museum of Broadcast Communications Ready For Next Chapter + Pasta Time! Gary Zidek On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes you inside the Museum of Broadcast Communication, we’ll hear about the non-profit’s current exhibits and future plans. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review a free children’s play touring Chicago parks. Later in the show, Gary catches up with the chef behind a new west suburban handmade pasta shop. And we’ll look back at the history of a film that some say is the best bad movie of all time.
July 26 · length unknown
The Arts Section 07/26/26: Youth Orchestra Takes Lolla Stage + Suburban Author Finds Mystery Niche
Youth Orchestra Lolla Stage + Author Finds Mystery Niche Gary Zidek On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with the executive director of a youth orchestra that’s getting ready for giant performance this week. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review a new children’s musical. Later in the show, Emily Werner stops by to preview what’s hitting Chicago stages in August. And Gary sits down with a suburban fiction author who found her calling later in life.
July 19 · length unknown
The Arts Section 07/19/26: Rainbow Cone Celebrates 100 + Book Banning Pushback
Rainbow Cone 100 + Book Banning Pushback Gary Zidek On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek takes a closer look at local ice cream institution that’s turning 100. We’ll hear about an effort to raise awareness as the number banned books increases around the country. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review a new production of CRIME AND PUNISHMENT that’s been extended over two months, because it keeps selling out. Later in the show, Gary reviews the much anticipated Christopher Nolan film THE ODYSSEY. We’ll get ready for the World Cup final with a look at a soccer-themed photo exhibit that’s open in the western suburbs. And Gary talks to the author of a book about the popular TV series TED LASSO.
July 12 · length unknown
The Arts Section 07/12/26: Grass Roots Jazz Concert Series Thriving + Woodstock Folk Fest Turns 41
Grass Roots Jazz Series Thriving + Woodstock Folk Fest Back Gary Zidek On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek checks in on an outdoor jazz concert series born in the midst of the pandemic that has not only continued, but expanded long after the COVID restrictions went away. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review a new production of A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC. Later in the show, Gary previews the 41st Woodstock Folk Festival. And he’ll catch up with the author of a book all about the history of one of Chicago’s oldest cultural landmarks.
July 5 · length unknown
The Arts Section 07/05/26: Interviews With John Early and Gary Sinise
Interviews With John Early and Gary Sinise Gary Zidek On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with celebrated actor and comedian John Early to talk about his new film, MADDIE’S SECRET. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel will joins Gary to review a Goodman Theatre world premiere starring Megan Mullaly and Nick Offerman. Later in the show, Gary revisits his interview with actor Gary Sinise, who is returning to the western suburbs to raise money for a non-profit that helps veterans. And we’ll spotlight some of the hottest theatrical productions opening this month.
July 5 · length unknown
The Arts Section 06/28/26: American Weekender + Commute Photo Book
Anerican Weekender + Commute Photo Book Gary Zidek On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with a Chicago couple that launched their own online dining publication that covers restaurants all over the country. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review an ambitious new production of LEOPOLDSTADT. Later in the show, Gary talks to TV and film actor Marilyn Rajskub about her unlikely path to Hollywood. And Gary sits down with the photographer behind a new photo book that captures the moments within Chicago’s commute.
June 21 · length unknown
The Arts Section 06/21/26: Tom Dreesen Obit + Opera Festival of Chicago
Tom Dreesen Obit + Opera Festival of Chicago Gary Zidek Happy Father’s Day! On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek revisits his interview with celebrated comedian Tom Dreesen. The Harvey native, who enjoyed a decades-long career in show business, passed away this week. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review a world premiere at Lookingglass Theater. Later in the show, Gary highlights the mission the Opera Festival Of Chicago. And we’ll take a look at a conversational exhibit at the Museum of Contemporary Art.
June 14 · length unknown
The Arts Section 06/14/26: Soccer Photo Exhibit + The Alley Turns 50
Soccer Photo Exhibit + The Alley Turns 50 Gary Zidek On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek visits a new photo exhibit that illuminates the beautiful game. As the World Cup takes center stage, a suburban museum is presenting a new exhibition titled The Saturday Man. Theater critic Jonathan Abarbanel joins Gary to review a stage adaptation of BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN. Later in the show, Gary catches up with the owner of THE ALLEY as the alternative clothing store celebrates fifty years. And we’ll get an up-close look at a public video installation created using old home movies.
June 7 · length unknown
The Arts Section 06/07/26: Carolina Caroline Film, Jazzmaster Marilyn Crispell Interview + Old Town Art Fair
Carolina Caroline Film, Jazzmaster Marilyn Crispell + 76th Old Town Art Fair Gary Zidek On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek sits down with filmmaker Adam Carter Rehmeier to chat about his new movie CAROLINA CAROLINE. Theater critics Jonathan Abarbanel and Emily Werner join Gary to review a new production of ANTIGONE. Later in the show, Gary catches up with NEA Jazz Master Marilyn Crispell to talk about her love of improvisation and an upcoming program at the Art Institute. Gary previews the 76th Old Town Art Fair. And we’ll hear about a storefront theater’s new mobile device policy.
May 31 · length unknown
The Arts Section 05/31/26: Artist/Magician Jeanette Andrews + New Cookbook Dives Into Regional Faves
Artist/Magician Jeanette Andrews + New Cookbook Dives Into Regional Favorites Gary Zidek On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with magician/artist Jeanette Andrews to talk about her new solo exhibit at the Elmhurst Art Museum. Theater critics Jonathan Abarbanel and Emily Werner join Gary to review A Red Orchid Theatre’s latest. And Gary talks to Chicago-based food writer & critic Amy Cavanaugh about what makes Midwest cuisine unique and her contributions to a new cookbook.
May 24 · length unknown
The Arts Section 05/24/26: Local Author Adapts Famous Comic Into Novel + Summer Movie Preview
Local Author Adapts Famous Comic + Summer Movie Preview Gary Zidek On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek catches up with renowned comic book artist Alex Ross and WDCB radio host Steve Darnall to talk about their new project, an adaptation of the acclaimed comic series MARVELS. The ground-breaking comic series has been turned into a novel. Theater critics Jonathan Abarbanel and Emily Werner join Gary to review Timeline Theater’s new production and talk about the company’s brand new venue. And later in the show, Gary sits down with Classic Cinemas CEO Chris Johnson to preview the summer movie season.

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