Jazz Showcase
Chicago, IL 60610
Phone: (312) 670-2473
- Cross Street:
- Dearborn Street
- Directions:
- El: Red Line to Grand; bus: 65, 22
- Hours:
- Tue-Thu 8pm, 10pm, Fri-Sat 9pm, 11pm, Sun 4pm, 8pm, 10pm
Editorial Review for Jazz Showcase – by Neal Tesser
The Scene
While it may look new, this club has been drawing jazz legends to its stage for more than half a century. Founded in 1947 by Joe Segal, the Showcase has had more than a dozen addresses; the current and (hopefully) permanent site is comfortable and has good lighting, clean restrooms and fine acoustics. Sets usually begin within 25 minutes of scheduled times, which is positively prompt by jazz standards.
The Draw
The club's history comes alive in pictures of legendary jazz performers--from Charlie Parker to John Coltrane, Wes Montgomery to Yusef Lateef and Betty Carter, right on up to Pat Metheny and Joshua Redman--who have played the Showcase. Patrons are encouraged to bring their kids, especially to the weekly Sunday matinee ("Get them while they're young," Segal says); children 12-and-under are admitted free. Reservations are not taken, but there's never a drink minimum.
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Insider Tips
The ExtrasUnless there are others waiting for your seats, Jazz Showcase will invite you to stick around for the second set for no extra cover.
Save MoneyIn cooperation with Maggiano's Little Italy restaurant, the Showcase offers a package that includes dinner and a seat at the club for $43, cover included. Call the restaurant for reservations.
Know Before You GoAdmission is cash only, but credit cards are accepted for bar service.
