Author: Fox Valley Magazine

 West Dundee’s Premier Live Music Destination Nestled in the heart of downtown West Dundee at 96 West Main Street, Rookies Rochaus has become a cornerstone of the region’s live music and entertainment scene. What began as a historic performance space has evolved into one of the Fox River Valley’s most vibrant venues, showcasing an eclectic mix of live acts, tribute bands, themed shows, and community-driven celebrations. A Venue with Character and History Rookies Rochaus occupies a building that blends historic charm with industrial-chic design, featuring exposed brick walls, a prominent stage, theater-style seating, and a lively bar area. Originally a…

(Photos by Brett Beiner and Liz Lauren) Live theatre. There’s nothing quite like it. The hand-picked fabrics for lush and glittering costumes. The meticulously crafted set pieces to make you feel like you’re in a back alley in New York, a small town in Kansas or a castle in the sky. An actor’s choice of a smirk or hair toss that brings their character to life. Add to the mix iconic songs and stories, all told from the beautiful stage in our historic theatre, and you have Broadway at the Paramount.  You’re invited to see and feel the magic unfolding around you as Paramount presents their 15th season…

Located along Elgin’s award-winning Riverwalk, The Hemmens Cultural Center has been bringing top-tier performances to the Fox Valley since 1969. Designed by the architects behind the Willis (Sears) Tower, this striking theater combines historic modern charm with exceptional acoustics, creating an intimate setting for every show. Legendary artists like B.B. King, Rush, and Blue Öyster Cult have performed on its stage, and today, The Hemmens continues to host world-class music, comedy, dance, theater, and more. This season, the main stage season is bigger, bolder, and more exciting than ever. From live concerts and internationally recognized dance performances to laugh-out-loud comedy,…

The ECC Arts Center is a premier destination for live performance, cultural enrichment, and artistic excellence, offering world-class entertainment right in the heart of the Fox Valley. From Grammy and Tony Award winners, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame icons, and stars from Broadway to Hollywood, the Art Center’s elegant Blizzard Theatre and intimate SecondSpace Theatre have welcomed some of the world’s most celebrated performers. The Spring 2026 ECC Arts Center season features an eclectic mix of shows, ranging from pop, country, and soul to folk, to Afro-Mexican rhythms and acoustic guitar. On March 6 & 7, Club Cabaret returns…

Legendary comedian, actor, and award-winning director Bobcat Goldthwait will perform live at The Comedy Vault in Batavia for 4 shows, February 6-7. Known from Scrooged, Police Academy, HBO/Showtime specials, and directing Robin Williams in World’s Greatest Dad, Bobcat brings decades of comedy and storytelling to the stage. ​Goldthwait first appeared on the David Letterman Show at the age of 20 and has an ongoing career as a writer, director, actor, voice actor, and stand-up. As a comedian, Bobcat has starred in numerous HBO/Showtime specials, performed in venues worldwide, and even went on tour as an opening act for the band Nirvana.…

On Friday, February 6, eclectic St. Charles retailer Trend + Relic will host it’s annual Galentine’s event from 6pm to 9pm. Grab your best gals and get to the Trend + Relic annual Galentine’s Event! Trend + Relic1501 Indiana Ave.St Charles, IL 60174

On Saturday and Sunday, February 7-8, violinist Geneva Lewis, recipient of a 2021 Avery Fisher Career Grant, will be featured with the Elgin Symphony Orchestra in Barber’s expressive Violin Concerto, a work renowned for its lyrical warmth and fiery finale. Led by ESO Music Director Chad Goodman, the program also includes Dvořák’s powerful “Othello” Overture, inspired by Shakespeare’s tragic character, and Brahms’ deeply introspective and noble Symphony No. 3. Lewis is quickly establishing herself as one of the most compelling young violinists of her generation. Her performances have been praised for their “remarkable mastery” by Boston Musical Intelligencer and “deep musical maturity”…

Broadway star Sean Doherty will perform romantic songs with an ensemble from the Elgin Symphony Orchestra at an exclusive Valentine’s Day dinner on Saturday, February. 14, at Dunham Woods Riding Club, 33w333 Army Trail Road in Wayne, Illinois. Tickets $200 and must be purchased by noon Wednesday, Feb. 4, at www.ElginSymphony.org or through the Elgin Symphony Orchestra Box Office, 847-888-4000. The ESO Box Office is open Tuesday through Friday from 10am to 3pm.   The evening begins at 6pm with cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres, followed by a chef-designed gourmet dinner and dessert. Attendees will be able to pre-select their choice…

Note: This is the latest in a weekly series from Anderson Humane spotlighting wonderful animals currently looking for a “forever home.” We encourage you to support Anderson Humane and it’s tireless efforts to care for our animal friends and place them in loving homes. For more information please visit https://ahconnects.org/. Meet Diesel! Diesel is an adorable Schnauzer mix with a charming gray and white coat and the cutest white “sock” feet that make him simply irresistible. This sweet boy loves attention and pets, and he’s always eager to soak up affection from his people. Diesel has a playful side—he enjoys toys and…