From the husk of the old Morton Salt factory, a new music venue rises
The Salt Shed’s opening night had a few hiccups, but there was much more to get excited about.
![[PRESS RELEASE] Baim stepping down as Reader publisher end of 2022](https://i0.wp.com/chicagoreader.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/tracybaimbyglitterguts_720.jpg?resize=400%2C300&ssl=1)
Get the latest issue of the Chicago Reader
Swimming in the atomic waters of the largest Godzilla convention on earth
On the reptilian superstar, family, and other monsters
Can a new housing development revitalize Bronzeville without displacing residents?
One housing complex can’t reverse decades of historical trends—but city officials hope 43 Green can be a model for equitable development.
Black Chicago dance culture shines at Art on the Mart
Half a dozen participants in the short film Billiken talk about the famous south-side parade that shaped their lives.
Paul Vallas rubs shoulders with the far right
The mayoral candidate spoke at a fundraiser for a group that has promoted transphobic rhetoric.
MUBI GO to the movies
A new curated “movie pass” offers tickets to art house standouts.
Arts & Culture
‘And then I laughed’
Theatre Y and Marvin Tate’s Laughing Song is a one-of-a-kind experience.
The three Ryans
An interview with a trio of teenage boys who shared a passion for Godzilla and for calling each other “brother,” though it had only been an hour since they’d met.
Fast times at North Shore Magnet High
Adam Langer’s new novel revisits adolescent suburban drama of the 80s.
Mudlark expands its community outreach
The youth-oriented company dives into community stories and Theater of the Oppressed; Ellen Chenoweth departs the Dance Center.
The Mamalogues offers real talk with a comic edge
Fleetwood-Jourdain’s production highlights “parenting while Black in the age of anxiety.”
Film
The much worse predator
Andrew Traucki’s The Reef: Stalked finds fear and glory in the conquest of nature—but it’s sending the wrong message.
From roller rinks to R-rated movies
Jordan Peele’s Nope is sure to be a game changer for Chicago native Brandon Perea.
Music
Sponsored
Conversation, creativity, and coping strategies
Musician Mike Vinopal shares his perspective on mental health
News & Politics / Columns & Opinion
Riot Fest meeting leaves residents worried about the fate of their park
A recent community meeting provided few answers.
MAGA enablers
Andrew Yang and his third party lead the way for Trump.
Walking with the dead
Adam Selzer’s new book digs up the stories at Graceland Cemetery.
Pretty Boy is the finest thing, but maybe he should be set on fire
He engages in rough sex knowing it’s sometimes painful.
Biased driving
Mayor Lightfoot uses NASCAR to lure the “Let’s Go Brandon” crowd to town.
City Life
Photos: 2022 Chicago Pride Parade
Photographer Michael Jackson captured vibrant moments of joy at Chicago’s 51st Pride Parade.
Sponsored
Welcome to Pineappleland: Summer in Andersonville
Laura from Andersonville Chamber of Commerce shares how pineapple became the unofficial summer mascot of the Andersonville Chamber, and highlights the neighborhood’s upcoming festivals and outdoor events.
Summer in the city: youth edition
How to enjoy Chicago when you’re a teen with a budget and a curfew
Riding the wave of the Crocs
Being on trend, when the trend is objectively ugly footwear
Food & Drink
Bernardo Medina’s Sofrito Manifesto slaps like a flip-flop
The San Juan-based “Jibarito Pop” artist honors granny food in Humboldt Park.
Party like it’s Indonesian Independence Day with Waroeng and Friends at the next Monday Night Foodball
Check out the menu of family holiday recipes on deck at the Reader’s ongoing chef pop-up series.
The tastes of home
Reader staffers recount some of their most memorable food experiences from Chicago summers past.
Sponsored
Sponsored
Best Dating Sites for Real Relationships in 2022
If you’re open to giving online dating a try, these are the best dating sites to actually meet someone…
Sponsored
What makes a co-op a co-op?
The Dill Pickle’s general manager I’Talia McCarthy shares the core values behind the community-minded grocer, and why you should consider becoming a member
Since it opened in 2009, the Dill Pickle Food Co-op has been a community staple in Chicago’s Logan Square…
Sponsored
10 Best Cannabis Seed Banks To Buy Cannabis Seeds Online in 2022 (Ships to US)
The ten best seed banks that ship to the U.S. with best strains and fair prices
Looking to grow your own bud? Here are the most reputable cannabis seed banks to buy cannabis seeds online…
