Date and times:
Days: Every Monday
Show begins at 7:30 pm
Check out Rick Kogan's Article in the Chicago Tribune
Petterino's Monday Night Live has been a hit with singers, guests and critics alike since opening on September 17, 2007. This "open mic" evening of talent, hosted by Denise McGowan and Beckie Menzie, has showcased some of Chicago's most prominant cabaret and musical theater artists and continues to provide surprises at each performance.
Singers, seasoned professional and aspiring as well as amateurs with real talent are encouraged to join the fun. Singers are accompanied by the talented Beckie Menzie and should provide sheet music in their key. Sign up begins each evening at 7:00 p.m.
Those who prefer to watch can enjoy the performances while sipping on some theatre inspired cocktails and nibbling lighter Petterino's favorites as well as the full dinner menu.
What's New with Monday Night Live...
St. Patrick's Day Eve was quite festive at Petterino's Monday Night Live with co-hosts Denise McGowan and Beckie Menzie in rare form!
Birthday celebrations were the order of the day with Allen, Polly Pancoe and Nhu-y all choosing to celebrate at Petterino's with good friends, good music and, possibly, the peppermint ice cream and hot fudge.
Our guests - some new faces, some regulars like Bev - saw terrific performances by Tom Michael, who with Beckie Menzie will be appearing every Saturday in April at Davenport's. Also on hand, Chicago's own Jimmy Damon, fresh from his sold-out appearance with McGowan at Maxim's, getting us all in the mood for St. Patrick's Day with his green polka dot tie and lovely rendition of an Irish lullaby. Regulars Ken Baker, Larry Dooley, Bob Howell and Ann McGregor were delightful as always. An appearance by Ron Anderson, with special guest, his adorable 18 month old Maria Victoria there to see daddy sing, was quite the crowd pleaser. Maria Victoria made her first stage appearance in a "big girl gown" and seemed quite at home.
Ardella Williams sang a beautiful rendition of "Say It Isn't So" to which McGowan quipped, "That should be the theme song for AIG".
Newcomer Amy Leschelt-Basta delighted the crowd with her rendition of "My Funny Valentine"and promised to make Monday Night Live a habit. She received the first "Petty" award of the evening, the t-shirt given to each new singer to MNL. "Rusty" also stepped on to the stage late in the evening and, as a new singer, also received the coveted "Petty".
The crowd especially loved Petterino's staff members Tim Amos and Edward Fraim who stepped away from their stations in the dining room to delight guests with their wonderful voices. A special bonus, Tim accompanied himself on guitar. Both Edward and Tim are currently appearing in the show "Mop Tops", about The Beatles.
Great singers, the incomparable Beckie Menzie at the piano, snappy patter from McGowan, great food and service AND complimentary valet parking after 7:00. Now that's a night of entertainment.
As a reminder, Beckie Menzie will be away next Monday, March 23rd. Filling in for her will be the very talented Bob Moreen.