Elgin Theatre Hosts ‘Love, Loss and What I Wore’ This November

The Elgin Theatre Company is set to present the poignant play “Love, Loss and What I Wore” on weekends through November 23, 2023. The performances will take place at the Elgin Art Showcase, located at 164 Division Street in Elgin. Showtimes are scheduled for 19:30 on Fridays and Saturdays, with a matinee at 14:30 on Sundays. Tickets are priced at $25, with discounts of $2 available for students and seniors over 62.

Based on Ilene Beckerman’s acclaimed book, the play explores women’s experiences through their clothing and the memories these items evoke. It features a series of monologues and ensemble pieces where women reflect on significant moments in their lives, including their first bras, prom dresses, and wedding gowns. For ticket purchases and further details, visit elgin-theatre.org/the-season.

Elgin Sing-Along Messiah to Benefit Local Nonprofits

On December 4, 2023, at 19:00, the Second Baptist Church of Elgin will host the fourth annual Elgin Sing-Along Messiah. This interactive event invites attendees to join in singing selections from George Frideric Handel’s “Messiah,” accompanied by musicians from the Elgin Symphony Orchestra, the Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra, and members of the Elgin Master Chorale. Featured soloists include soprano Maria Kanyova, tenor Eric Wassenaar, and baritone Jonathan Wilson.

Tickets for this festive occasion are available for $7, with a $2 handling fee included. Children aged 12 and under can attend free of charge. Proceeds will support the Well Child Center, which operates an emergency food pantry, having raised $17,000 for various local nonprofits since the event’s inception. All tickets must be purchased in advance, and seating will be organized by vocal range. For more information, visit www.ElginSing-AlongMessiah.org.

Dixon Deputy Chief Honored for Heroism

In a notable act of bravery, Dixon Deputy Police Chief Aaron Simonton was recently recognized by the Dixon City Council for saving a man’s life at a Portillo’s restaurant in Elgin. On October 19, Simonton observed a patron choking during lunch with his family. Acting quickly, he was able to dislodge the obstruction, preventing a potential tragedy.

Police Chief Ryan Bivins commended Simonton during the city council meeting, stating, “While you weren’t on duty, you understood the importance of acting quickly and without hesitation. You showed them what wearing the badge at all times really means.”

Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra Concerts Scheduled

The Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra will present three concerts on November 16, 2023, at the Blizzard Theater in the Elgin Community College Arts Center, 1700 Spartan Drive. The first performance, beginning at 13:30, will showcase a prelude, sinfonia, and the sinfonia percussion ensemble. The following concert at 16:30 will feature a flute choir, brass choir, philharmonia, and philharmonia percussion ensemble. The final concert at 19:30 will highlight the youth symphony and the youth symphony percussion ensemble.

Tickets are available for $27 for adults, $22 for seniors, and $7 for students. They can be purchased at the ECC box office, by calling 847-622-0300, or online at eccartscenter.org/tickets/eventdetails.aspx#event-26EYS1. Additionally, the concerts will be streamed on the EYSO’s YouTube channel.

International Week Celebrations at Elgin Community College

Elgin Community College will hold free events to celebrate International Week on November 17 and November 20, 2023. This initiative promotes global education and highlights the contributions of over 80 international students representing 37 countries.

The festivities will commence with an opening reception on November 17 from 12:30 to 14:00 in the Jobe Lounge, Building B. The event will feature an address from ECC President Peggy Heinrich, a Bollywood dance performance, and light refreshments. On November 20, international and study abroad students will share their experiences during a session from 13:00 to 14:00 in Community Room 181, Building B.

Additionally, local filmmaker Griffin Hammond will screen his documentary “Sriracha,” which chronicles the journey of David Tran, a Vietnamese refugee who popularized the hot sauce in the United States. This screening will take place from 16:00 to 17:30 on November 20, also in Community Room 181, with snacks and refreshments provided.

For further information about International Week, visit elgin.edu/student-services/student-life/international-week.