It's Showtime with Rikki Lee

Rikki Lee Travolta

It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee is a fun half-hour show profiling the entertainment industry including stage, television, film, music, and literature. From platinum-selling musicians, to Hollywood heartthrobs, to Broadway stars, to local artists, host Rikki Lee Travolta puts listeners in touch with the world of showbiz. In addition to headlining film, TV, and stage projects and serving as a celebrity publicist, Travolta has a unique brand of delivery that is seasoned by tenure as a journalist for the world’s leading publishers and complimented by improv technique studied at Second City. read less
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Episodes

Mercury Theater’s “Jersey Boys” a Chicago Theatrical Achievement
Mar 20 2024
Mercury Theater’s “Jersey Boys” a Chicago Theatrical Achievement
“Jersey Boys” – the stage musical dramatization of the story of the popular singing group The Four Seasons – took Broadway by storm in 2005. It went on to win the Tony Award for Best Musical and ran for over a decade. It’s the story of four working-class youths from New Jersey who used talent and determination to make it in the world as singing sensations. With such hits as “Sherry”, “Big Girls Don’t Cry”, “Walk Like a Man” and “Oh What a Night”, they achieved immortality via worldwide fame. “Chicago is kind of like New Jersey,” notes L. Walter Stearns – one of the two co-directors of a brand-new production of “Jersey Boys” at Mercury Theater in Chicago. Stearns points this out in reference to how the Mercury Theater production is the first in Chicago to originate in Chicago with Chicago talent. On this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, Stearns and co-director Brenda Didier share the process of developing this homegrown interpretation of the Broadway hit for Chicago audiences. They share casting details and how they went about creating the look and sound of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Didier and Stearns are two of the most decorated directors in Chicago theatre. In addition, Stearns is the executive director of the Mercury Theater. The production stars Jason Michael Evans (Nick Massi), Andrew MacNaughton (Bob Gaudio), Michael Metcalf (Frankie Valli) and Adrian Aguilar (Tommy DeVito). Much to their credit, one point both directors agree on is to value the input of all the members of the production team and then pick the best options to pursue. Captained by host Rikki Lee Travolta, this episode is an incredible opportunity to learn from two of the city’s top creative talents. “Jersey Boys” is scheduled through May 19, 2024. For tickets visit www.MercuryTheaterChicago.com or call the box office at (773) 360-7365. And – for additional insights into the Chicagoland theater world, visit our sister internet publications www.LifeandTimes.biz – your guilty pleasure for entertainment news, views, and reviews.
An Interview with Elizabeth Swanson – Co-Director with Jim Corti of Paramount Theatre’s “A Streetcar Named Desire”
Mar 13 2024
An Interview with Elizabeth Swanson – Co-Director with Jim Corti of Paramount Theatre’s “A Streetcar Named Desire”
On this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, heralded director Elizabeth Swanson joins host Rikki Lee Travolta to discuss “A Streetcar Named Desire” running through April 21, 2024, as a part of Paramount Theatre’s BOLD Series in downtown Aurora, just outside Chicago. Swanson, who recently completed tenure as the artistic director of BoHo Theatre, co-directs the American classic with Paramount artistic director Jim Corti. During the interview, Swanson describes working with the Chicago theatre legend and the process of bringing Tennessee Williams’ most famous work to Paramount’s Copley Theatre. Corti and Swanson have not taken a passive approach with “A Streetcar Named Desire.” The interpretation Swanson describes has the exciting potential to be a game-changer and truly historic. One of Chicago’s premier directing talents, Swanson explains the path that brought them to this point in their career. Swanson also relates how those experiences flavor and influence their approach to helming a production. They especially go into detail on how they collaborated with Corti and a cast that includes Amanda Drinkall, Casey Hoekstra, and television’s Alina Taber to create characters that are true to the text yet fresh, impactful, and perhaps even genius. Order tickets now to what promises to be an emotionally moving and thought-provoking roller coaster of angst, passion, love, lust, hopes, sorrows, and struggles for power. This show will be the stuff of legends. For tickets call the box office at (630) 896-6666 or visit www.ParamountAurora.com.
An interview with Ronnie Marmo - star of "Bill W. and Dr. Bob" and "I'm Not a Comedian...I'm Lenny Bruce"
Feb 28 2024
An interview with Ronnie Marmo - star of "Bill W. and Dr. Bob" and "I'm Not a Comedian...I'm Lenny Bruce"
Alcoholism is a powerful subject. As the backdrop for movies like "A Star is Born", "Leaving Las Vegas", and "Barfly", it is apparent that alcoholism can make for vivid storytelling. Alcoholics Anonymous is an organization that has saved the lives of millions of addicts by helping them to get and stay sober. "Bill W and Dr. Bob" is a renowned play coming to Chicago that captures on stage the very start of AA – as two alcoholics come together to support each other and then offer that support out into the world for all others who want to get sober. On this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, actor and director Ronnie Marmo joins host Rikki Lee Travolta to discuss what is expected to be a big hit in Chicago: "Bill W. and Dr. Bob." The show opens March 7 and is playing at the Biograph Theater in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood. In addition, on his nights off, Ronnie is also appearing in the smash hit “I’m Not a Comedian….I’m Lenny Bruce” under the direction of Joe Mantegna. The two must-see plays are running in repertoire at the Biograph Theater. It’s a fascinating episode with lots of great insights into the torments of addiction, the saving grace of AA, and the brilliance of entertainment. Ronnie Marmo has a lot of interesting things to discuss about bringing these two hit shows to Chicago – so be sure to listen. For tickets to “Bill W. and Dr. Bob" go to www.BillWandDrBobOnStage.com For tickets to “I’m Not a Comedian…I’m Lenny Bruce” go to www.LennyBruceOnStage.com. We also encourage you to read our sister publication LifeandTimes.biz – your guilty pleasure for entertainment news, views, and reviews.
An Interview with Meghan Murphy Star of Porchlight’s “Anything Goes”
Jan 31 2024
An Interview with Meghan Murphy Star of Porchlight’s “Anything Goes”
Chicago is a theatre town. It is second only to New York’s Broadway in terms of notoriety. The show to see in Chicago at the moment is the rousing Porchlight Music Theatre revival of Cole Porter’s “Anything Goes”. Directed by Michael Weber, the show stars the incomparable Meghan Murphy, who seems tailor-made for the part of the sexy cabaret singer at the heart of the story about mistaken identities and hysterical hijinks on the high seas. The show is a star vehicle, and Meghan Murphy is a bonafide star.   If you haven’t heard of Meghan Murphy before, then stand up and take notice because she is a star that demands the spotlight and her time is now. On a new episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, host Rikki Lee Travolta sits down with the stunningly beautiful and charismatic Meghan Murphy to discuss how she became attached to the show that is the talk of the town. Meghan has some great insights on why the “pleasure bomb” of a show has hit the sweet spot with Chicago audiences. She gives credit to the feel-good nature of the show and the brilliant Cole Porter score, as well as the brilliant choreography. Rikki Lee, however, gives credit to Meghan Murphy. Murphy is not only a headlining musical theatre star, she is also an internationally famous cabaret star – just one of the many reasons she is so phenomenal as Reno Sweeney in "Anything Goes." You can be that’s an area she and Rikki Lee take a deep dive exploring. “This is one of the most fun episodes to record in the history of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee,” said Rikki Lee after interviewing Meghan. You’ll have to listen and experience why for yourself. To purchase tickets for Porchlight Music Theatre’s dazzling production of “Anything Goes” visit: www.PorchlightMusicTheatre.org. To keep tabs on Meghan Murphy and see where you can enjoy her performing next go to: www.MeghanMurphyBigRed.com.
"Dinner and a Show" An Interview with Chef K.C. Gulbro of FoxFire Steakhouse – 2023 Steakhouse of the Year
Jan 3 2024
"Dinner and a Show" An Interview with Chef K.C. Gulbro of FoxFire Steakhouse – 2023 Steakhouse of the Year
“Dinner and a Show” has long been the recipe for a happy date night. On this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, Chef K.C. Gulbro shares what’s on the menu at FoxFire Steakhouse – an award-winning eatery in Geneva, IL that distinguishes itself as a top choice for date nights. Situated along the Fox River, Gulbro’s FoxFire Steakhouse is an ideal stop for those attending any one of the amazing theatres in Chicago’s western suburbs. FoxFire is a favorite of patrons of such venues as Steel Beam Theatre in St. Charles, Paramount Theatre in Aurora, Batavia Fine Arts Centre, Arcada Theater in St. Charles, Albright Community Theatre in Batavia, and Playhouse 38 Theatre in Geneva. The delicious menu at FoxFire isn’t just a local favorite, the restaurant earned national honors as the “2023 Steakhouse of the Year” as awarded by the Certified Angus Beef ® brand – the premier authorities on steaks. During the interview, host Rikki Lee Travolta and Gulbro reflect on the chef’s path in the restaurant industry, from his first job bussing tables as a teenager to opening FoxFire Steakhouse with his father 20 years ago. Gulbro also details tips on different cuts of meat and how to select the steak that’s right for your taste preferences from sirloin to strip to ribeye. It’s an exciting and informative show that will have your mouthwatering. After listening, book your reservation at FoxFire Steakhouse by going to www.FoxFireGeneva.com or call (630) 232-1369.
An interview with Television Star Nick Di Brizzi Jr. and the Breathe Like a Boss Foundation
Dec 20 2023
An interview with Television Star Nick Di Brizzi Jr. and the Breathe Like a Boss Foundation
Nick Di Brizzi Jr. is a very talented actor who you are likely to recognize from hit shows like CSI: NY, I Carly, and Fargo as well as in feature films and numerous commercials. Nick originally hails from Chicago, but has been in LA turning heads as an actor for years. He credits his Second City improv training to be the foundation for his success as an actor. Nick has a unique story, in addition to being a respected actor, he navigates living life with Cystic Fibrosis - leading to a double lung transplant. Like myself, Nick is someone who looks out for others and gives back to the community – which is why he founded the Breathe Like A Boss Foundation which offers grants to people with Cystic Fibrosis for the purpose of maintaining an exercise regime.   On January 6, 2024, Nick Di Brizzi Jr. and the Breathe Like a Boss Foundation will be conducting a fun fundraising event in Elmwood Park, IL. On this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, host Rikki Lee Travolta chats with Nick about his acting career, the Breathe Like a Boss Foundation, and the upcoming Jan 6 Bocce Ball Tournament Fundraiser. For more information on joining the event and making donations visit https://givebutter.com/c/BLABBocceballEvent In addition to his work as an actor, Nick Di Brizzi Jr. is a residential realtor for properties in the Los Angeles area. Contact Nick DiBrizzi Jr. through Facebook or Instagram at: Facebook: @NickDiBrizziJr Instagram: @nickdibrizzijr For the Breathe Like a Boss Foundation: Facebook: @TheBreatheLikeABossFoundation Instagram: @thebreathelikeabossfoundation
An Interview with Blake Sakamoto – Rock n’ Roll Keyboardist of Dan Reed Network Fame
Dec 13 2023
An Interview with Blake Sakamoto – Rock n’ Roll Keyboardist of Dan Reed Network Fame
There is a certain art to playing keyboards in a guitar band. It’s a skill that Blake Sakamoto mastered after informal lessons from Dio keyboardist Claude Schnell early in his career. Blake took that skill and became one of the best keyboardists in rock - most notably helping to give the Dan Reed Network their signature sound. In this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, congenial host Rikki Lee Travolta takes a deep dive into all things Dan Reed Network with Blake Sakamoto – the keyboardist for the band behind the hit albums Dand Reed Network, Slam, and Ritual in the 1980’s and 90’s. Blake and DRN were well known in the U.S., and huge in Europe. They opened for legendary acts like Bon Jovi and The Rolling Stones, bringing their unique blend of rock, funk, and metal to fans all over the world. Blake now makes his home in the Greater Portland, Oregon area and is still involved in the music industry thrilling audiences throughout the Pacific Northwest with The Nu Wavers – the sexiest 80’s cover band on the scene, bringing back the onstage showmanship that made the 80’s so dynamic and fun. He also has an interesting connection to the world of musical theatre. In addition to his music career with the Nu Wavers, Blake balances a successful Country Financial insurance agency office – licensed in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Arizona, Wisconsin, and Illinois. So, if you’re in the market for Auto, Home, Farm, Life, Business, or Retirement policies contact Blake Sakamoto at (503) 266-7000 (voice & text) or BlakeSakamoto2@countryfinancial.com Be sure to check out the Entertainment News, Views, and Reviews at our sister publication website www.LifeandTimes.biz.
An interview with Hard Rock's Leading Lady Lita Ford
Dec 6 2023
An interview with Hard Rock's Leading Lady Lita Ford
When it comes to heavy metal and hard rock, one woman’s name stands out above all others. Lita Ford, the incredible guitarist and passionate singer, is in a class by herself. ]On a new episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, host Rikki Lee Travolta taps the legendary rockstar for the details of her impressive career with a particular emphasis on showmanship for killer live performances and what goes into creating a hit song. Also on the menu – a deep dive into why Lita Ford loves B.C. Rich guitars. Lita broke into the industry at the age of 16 when she was recruited to be the lead guitarist in the all-female group The Runaways. By the time Lita was 17, the band had a record out and was opening for Van Halen, Talking Heads, Cheap Trick, and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. They scored hits with songs like “Cherry Bomb”, “Heartbeat”, “School Days”, “Hollywood”, and “Queens of Noise”. In the 1980s, Lita attained Rock Goddess status as a solo artist. She had huge hits in that era with songs like “Kiss Me Deadly”, “Close My Eyes Forever”, “Dressed to Kill”, “Back to the Cave”, and “Falling In and Out of Love”.  She continues to delight fans today with live concerts - and new music is on the way! Lita Ford has long been the poster woman for B.C. Rich guitars, including a love affair with the Warlock model. In fact, one of Lita’s signature Warlock guitars is on display at the Rock n’ Roll Hall of Fame. During the interview, Lita explains why B.C. Rich is her guitar of choice. Lita’s focus on making great music has made her an icon in hard rock. She is recognized and beloved the world over. One question she is routinely asked is when fans can expect a new record. Lita confides that she plans to have a new album out in 2024. If you are a fan of Lita Ford, a fan of heavy metal and hard rock, or just interested in the rock n’ roll world in general, you’ll enjoy this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee featuring the leading lady of hard rock, Lita Ford. For up-to-date information on Lita Ford visit: www.LitaFordOnline.com
An interview with Broadway & TV Star Andy Mientus playing in Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas
Nov 28 2023
An interview with Broadway & TV Star Andy Mientus playing in Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas
On this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, host Rikki Lee Travolta is joined by Broadway and television star Andy Mientus. Andy is starring in “Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas” produced by The Jim Henson Company and iTheatrics at the historic Studebaker Theatre in the heart of Chicago. Andy has starred on Broadway in “Spring Awakening” and “Les Misérables” and the national tour of “Wicked.” He was seen in key roles in the television hit “Smash” with Jeremy Jordan and Katherine McPhee and as supervillain The Pied Piper in the CW’s “The Flash.” In this interview, Andy discusses what it’s like starring in a Jim Henson entertainment production and the tremendous respect he has for working with the talented puppeteers. He also lavishes praise on his other talented costars and what it was like working with director and choreographer Christopher Gattelli who won a Tony Award for “Newsies”. Another topic of discussion is the incredible score by Oscar and Grammy-winning composer Paul Williams – who was intimately involved in the rehearsal process for this production. “Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas” is an absolute treasure that children and adults will love. To make plans to see this wonderful holiday musical at the historic Studebaker Theatre through December 31`, 2023, call the Fine Arts Building Box Office at (312) 753-3210 extension 102  or go online to www.FineArtsBuilding.com.
Steel Beam Theatre - Light Parade Viewing Party & Open House
Nov 21 2023
Steel Beam Theatre - Light Parade Viewing Party & Open House
It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee serves as a backstage pass to an array of fascinating avenues within the entertainment universe. One of the areas of focus is the world theatre. Chicago is known for its great theatre. There are phenomenal theatrical options both in the city and in the suburbs. One wonderful little gem of a theatre in Chicago’s western suburbs is Steel Beam Theatre in lovely St. Charles Illinois. Steel Beam has been providing top-rate professional entertainment for over two decades. Steel Beam Theatre is among a number of organizations that have been hindered in receiving grants due to a document processing error. Although it is expected to be rectified, it leaves the affected organizations like Steel Beam Theatre without the funding they need to survive. It would be so tragic for theatre companies like Steel Beam to claw and scratch to successfully survive COVID, only to be taken down by a clerical error or computer glitch. Let’s not let the happen. This weekend, St. Charles celebrates the famous Electric Christmas Parade also known as the St. Charles Light Parade down Main Street on Saturday. It just so happens that Steel Beam Theatre offers a fantastic view of Main Street – so Steel Beam is opening its doors as a free venue for all to watch the festivities in a safe and warm environment. In fact, it’s going to be an event all unto itself. This Saturday, November 25 from 3 PM to 9 PM members of the Board of Directors will be on hand to discuss the theatre company and its 2023-2024 season. There will be refreshments and live entertainment throughout the day. You’ll be able to enjoy the parade and also find out how you can show your support for the arts ranging from making donations to buying season ticket subscriptions to getting your company to sponsor a show. On this episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, host Rikki Lee Travolta and Steel Beam Theatre’s managing director Catie Early discuss the upcoming Open House and Light Parade Viewing Party and all the fantastic reasons to show up and show your support. Steel Beam Theatre is located at 111 W. Main Street in downtown St. Charles. For more details on the Light Parade Open House and the exciting 2023-2024 Steel Beam Theatre season visit www.SteelBeamTheatre.com.
An Interview with Jessica Fisch, Director of Marriott Theatre’s Hit “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical”
Nov 14 2023
An Interview with Jessica Fisch, Director of Marriott Theatre’s Hit “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical”
On a new episode of It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee, host Rikki Lee Travolta welcomes theatrical director Jessica Fisch to discuss Marriott Theatre’s smash hit production of “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical”. “Beautiful” marks the Marriott Theatre debut for Fisch, who has wowed audiences with her work at Goodman Theatre, Steppenwolf Theatre, Drury Lane Theatre, Royal George, Northwestern University, Writer’s Theatre, Northlight Theatre, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and Windy City Playhouse. During the interview, Travolta guides Fisch through a discussion of her background as a director and her general approach to the art. Special attention is given to the year of pre-production work with her design partners that went into creating the look and feel of "Beautiful". People interested in how things work behind the scenes will be fascinated by Fisch’s search for the perfect leading lady to play Carole King. The actress not only has to look the part, act the part, and sing the part, she also has to be a skilled pianist. Fisch found the ideal star in Kaitlyn Davis, who previously played the title role in the First National Tour. The Jessica Fisch-helmed crowd-pleaser “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” is captivating audiences at Marriott Theatre through December 31, 2023. For ticket information to “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” visit www.MarriottTheatre.com or call the box office at (847) 634-0200. It’s Showtime with Rikki Lee is your backstage pass to the world of entertainment.