Check Out City Winery Before It Opens To Benefit Urban Gateways

By Julia Weeman in Arts & Entertainment on Jul 29, 2012 6:45PM

We shared a sneak peek of City Winery, but on August 11, you can get the chance to see it for yourself before their doors officially open to the public. They are hosting a preview party to benefit arts education non-profit Urban Gateways next Saturday from 7-11 p.m. In addition to a first chance to experience the West Loop's 33,000 square foot wine, food, and music venue, guests will be treated to wine, hors d'oeuvres and live music.

Reginald Robinson and the 5th Element will be appearing for the first time since their debut at the 2011 Chicago Jazz Festival. Reginald Robinson, a recipient of the MacArthur Genius Grant, is an acclaimed composer and performer of ragtime music. His love for music began with big band jazz records at home and then progressed to ragtime in 7th grade when Urban Gateways brought a small jazz ensemble to his school. Along with arranger Stu Greenspan (5th Element), Robinson's work for the sextet includes both ragtime and modern-style pieces. He will be performing with Stu Greenspan, bass; TimMcNamara, clarinet and saxophones; Robert Griffin of 8 Bold Souls, trumpet; Norman Palm, trombone, and Rob Dicke, drums.

Also performing will be acoustic blues duo Eric Noden & Joe Falisko with special guest Katherine Davis. The duo is renowned for producing multiple layers of sound and feeling with their high-energy technique. Known for ultra-rhythmic performances, the duo has created quite a buzz on their own and this rare collaboration with blues vocalist Katherine Davis is sure to be quite the show.

City Winery not only includes a fully functional winery and private tasting rooms, but also a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, outdoor wine garden, and a 325 seat performance venue. All proceeds from this event will go to Urban Gateways, a nonprofit whose goal is to educate and inspire young people by delivering high-quality, accessible arts experiences.

Tickets are $75 and can be purchased online or at the door. The preview party takes place Saturday, August 11 from 7-10 p.m. at City Winery in the West Loop. City Winery is located at 1200 W. Randolph.