Erica Thompson

As he plans the next chapter of his career, the Naperville native is leaning into theater. Next up: He's heading from Broadway to a play in Champaign about an alien invasion.

A network of Bronzeville community leaders say they have raised $75 million to help build or redevelop nine sites in a district that would be anchored by a theater, a food hub and a recreational Bronzeville Trail.

As he plans the next chapter of his career, the Naperville native is leaning into theater. Next up: He's heading from Broadway to a play in Champaign about an alien invasion.

“Soul Force: Annual Dr. King Celebration & Benefit” will take place Jan. 15 and 16, 2027. But additional concerts have not been scheduled, as the group continues to battle financial challenges.

From Derrick Rose to Carrie Coon, a wealth of homegrown and international talent is expected to appear at the fest, which runs through Oct. 25.

Pamela Laird Send email to [email protected] ∙ Isaac Wedderburn ∙ Emily Wray ∙ … ∙ Tiffany

Guy Bauer is making the leap from commercials to feature-length success with “Ana the Cleaner.” A third screening has been added to the fest lineup on Saturday at AMC Newcity.

The Chicago Bulls veteran is an executive producer of the award-winning anthology “Three Colors: Pan-African,” screening at the Chicago International Film Festival.

On hiatus for two years, the Soul Train Awards will return and be taped at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance in November.

“It's hard to get money for films about complicated women,” said Coon, who received an Artistic Achievement Award at the Chicago International Film Festival. Her new film, “The Liberation,” hits theaters in January.