Lester does Luther

Date: Sunday, December 14th, 2025

Doors: 7:00PM

Showtime: 7:30PM

Tickets: Advanced - $30 (+$6.00 fees, including tax) | Day of Show - $40 (+$8.00 fees, including tax) | VIP Table for 2 - $125 (+$21.26 fees, including tax) | VIP Table for 4 - $250 (+$25.01 fees, including tax)
VIP tables include admission for 2 or 4 people and a reserved table close to the stage

‘Service charges apply to ALL ticket purchases (online and box office)’ - Credit card only at door

About:

🎶✨ Join Us for an Unforgettable Night of Soul at the Epiphany Center for the Arts! ✨🎶

Prepare to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of soul music at the highly-anticipated live show, “Lester Does Luther and Other Black Queer Souldiers.” This spectacular tribute to the legendary Luther Vandross and a celebration of other iconic Black soul singers from the queer spectrum promises to be a remarkable evening of music, emotion, and pride!

📍 Location: Epiphany Center for the Arts  

201 s Ashland Ave, Chicago, Illinois 

🗓️ Date: Sunday, December 14, 2025

⏰ Time: 7:30PM

Experience the Legacy of Soul:  

Featuring timeless works from Luther Vandross, Teddy Pendergrass, Prince, Frank Ocean, and many more, this show is a heartfelt exploration of the songs that have shaped generations. Join us as we honor the artistry and influence of these remarkable musicians who have left an indelible mark on the music industry.

Starring the Spectacular Lester Jay

Lester Jenkins, a proud Chicago native, is the shining star of the night! With a Bachelor’s degree in vocal jazz performance and acting from Columbia College Chicago, this seasoned performer has graced stages across the Midwest and beyond for over 15 years. Known for his dynamic presence, Lester’s journey in music has been nothing short of inspiring.

What to Expect:  

As the lead vocalist backed by the talented Jaystones band, Lester will take you on a sonic journey that captivates the heart and lifts the spirit. Every moment promises to be electrifying. From delivering soulful renditions of classic hits to presenting original works infused with his unique style, Lester will enchant you with his soulful voice and magnetic stage presence.

Celebrate Love and Heritage:  

In a night dedicated to the intersections of Black and queer identities, come and revel in the celebration of love, art, and community. Enjoy a performance that showcases not only the soul-stirring melodies but the stories that define us all.

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary night! Get your tickets now and join us for a heartfelt celebration of soul music that will resonate long after the final note. 

Let the music move you, let the memories unfold, and let’s honor the timeless legacy of soul together!

See you there!

Golden Hour at Epiphany:

Stop by Epiphany for our live music series concerts, and be sure to hit Golden Hour before-hand for drinks and lite-bites! Doors open at 5pm Thursday - Saturday for Golden Hour with 1/2 priced bottles of wine and other specials!

Come early to EXPLORE and DISCOVER your own EPIPHANY… our art galleries are open and there is free entertainment before the show!

Please note that outside food or beverages are not permitted in the venue.

Join us in the Cafe Bar Thursday through Saturday for free live music, starting at 5PM until 8PM. Enjoy our exclusive food and drink specials until 7PM!

Golden Hour at Epiphany Center for the Arts is accentuated by free live music with food and drink specials, and, good friends… creating a magical aura that will help you, our valued patron, wind down or up your day!

Live Music Set from Alejandro Urzagaste 5PM - 8PM (FREE ADMISSION)

Golden Hour Specials

- $4 craft beer

- ½ priced bottle of wine

- $10 Epiphany spirits

- Delicious 2 for 1 lite bites

Golden hour specials end at 7pm but the music doesn't stop, make sure to check out our entertainment calendar to view all of our ticketed events.

About:

Alejandro Urzagaste is a midwestern native of South American descent. He studied guitar at Northern Illinois University with Fareed Haque after graduating St. Charles High School and being in the Jazz Workshop.

Alejandro released "Urban Intervals," in January 2012 featuring pianist Jodie Christian. In 2018 “Subject to Change,” was his first with the quartet Flow featuring Bill Carrothers on piano followed by “This From That,” in 2020. 

“Universal Translation,” is scheduled to be released and was recorded at Creation Audio in Minneapolis featuring Anthony Cox on bass and Ethan Kogan on drums. This latest quartet recording proves to be his best yet featuring the sounds of a stellar rhythm section and the accompaniment of Bill Carrothers,

Alejandro has toured and performed with Jodie Christian, Von Freeman, Rodney Whitaker, Ron Blake, Bobby Broom, Ron Perrillo, Fred Anderson, Malachi Favors and Deana Martin. 

He is the owner of North Shore Music and plays Hofner guitars.

More information at www.auguitar.com

The Fifth Star Band

Date: Thursday, December 18th, 2025

Doors: 5:00PM for Golden Hour | 7:30PM to the Sanctuary

Showtime: 8:00PM

Ticket: General Admission - $20 (+$4.72 fees, including tax)

About:

Join us in the Cafe Bar Thursday through Saturday for free live music, starting at 5PM until 8PM. Enjoy our exclusive food and drink specials until 7PM!

Golden Hour at Epiphany Center for the Arts is accentuated by free live music with food and drink specials, and, good friends… creating a magical aura that will help you, our valued patron, wind down or up your day!

Live Music Set from Superfrye 5PM - 8PM (FREE ADMISSION)

Golden Hour Specials

- $4 craft beer

- ½ priced bottle of wine

- $10 Epiphany spirits

- Delicious 2 for 1 lite bites

Golden hour specials end at 7pm but the music doesn't stop, make sure to check out our entertainment calendar to view all of our ticketed events.

About:

Imagine if Johnny Cash, Patti Smith, Nick Cave, T-Bone Walker and Bob Dylan got together to write a song for Twin Peaks— that’s Superfrye’s music.

A reverb-drenched guitar sits in the center of the stage. In Superfrye’s hands it becomes the sound of empowerment, rebellion, truth and freedom—wrapped up in storytelling of a folk artist diving headfirst into the struggles of real people; this is raw roots with soul. It bursts with outlaw and outsider energy, yet with full control Superfrye constantly toys with the edges of emotion, from haunting to hilarious and back again. With her vast catalog of originals and covers to draw from in styles from roots to flamenco, R&B to blues, lounge to punk, her songs bring you the sound of the terroir of the places she’s been and years she’s lived, as well as where she’s going next. Come along on the adventure.

Superfrye is an accomplished and innovative performer who has played all over Chicago, solo and with her band Superfrye & The Valiant ’72s. Highlights include a three-year residency at Rojo Gusano in Ravenswood, hosting and building a successful open mic at Artifact Events, as well as being featured with her band on WZRD 88.3 FM.

Ring-A-Ding Swing, It's Christmas featuring Gary Thomas

Date: Friday, December 19th, 2025

Doors: 5:00PM to Venue | 7:00PM to Sanctuary

Showtime: 7:30PM

Tickets: Advanced - $30 (+$6.00 fees, including tax) | Day of Show - $35 (+$7.00 fees, including tax) | VIP Table for 2 - $80 (+$16.00 fees, including tax) | VIP Table for 4 - $160 (+$32.00 fees, including tax)
VIP tables include admission for 2 or 4 people and a reserved table close to the stage

‘Service charges apply to ALL ticket purchases (online and box office)’ - Credit card only at door

About:

Get ready to swing into the season with Ring-A-Ding-Ding, It’s Christmas!—a festive holiday musical celebration with Gary Thomas and his jazz quartet, The Tom-Toms. Inspired by the classic TV specials of the 1960s, this show brings the swagger of Sinatra, the charm of Dean Martin, and the sparkle of Andy Williams to life with a toe-tapping lineup of swingin’ Christmas favorites. It’s a merry mix of nostalgia, smooth vocals, and cool jazz that’ll have you feeling like it’s Christmas Eve, 1967.

Golden Hour at Epiphany:

Stop by Epiphany for our live music series concerts, and be sure to hit Golden Hour before-hand for drinks and lite-bites! Doors open at 5pm Thursday - Saturday for Golden Hour with 1/2 priced bottles of wine and other specials!

Come early to EXPLORE and DISCOVER your own EPIPHANY… our art galleries are open and there is free entertainment before the show!

Please note that outside food or beverages are not permitted in the venue.

Free Blues Friday featuring Ivy Ford

Date: Friday, December 19th, 2025

Doors: 5:00PM to Venue | 7:00PM to Epiphany Hall

Showtime: 7:30PM

Tickets: Free admission! RSVP BELOW

About:

Ivy Ford, singer, songwriter, musician and ENTERTAINER. Self-made she is a multi-instrumentalist (guitar, bass, drums, piano) that is considered to be one of the current heavy hitters in the Chicago blues and music scene! 2015 kicked started opening for Buddy Guy at his club 'Legends' and is a household name there and other Chicago blues clubs. She is known for her high energy guitar playing  and showmanship onstage  that gives her audience and listeners an experience they won't forget, raising the bar show after show.  Currently Ivy Ford has three original albums which have been recognized in ROOTS magazine, Chicago Blues Guide and other publishings both in the United States and abroad. She made her Canadian debut in 2019 and since has been on several European tours. She has been highlighted in the last three Chicago Blues Festivals as well and continues to spread her music, performance and entertainment near and far.

Golden Hour at Epiphany:

Stop by Epiphany for our live music series concerts, and be sure to hit Golden Hour before-hand for drinks and lite-bites! Doors open at 5pm Thursday - Saturday for Golden Hour with 1/2 priced bottles of wine and other specials!

Come early to EXPLORE and DISCOVER your own EPIPHANY… our art galleries are open and there is free entertainment before the show!

Full Concert Calendar Here

Golden Hour Menu + Music Schedule

Join us in the Cafe Bar Thursday through Saturday for free live music, starting at 5PM until 8PM. Enjoy our exclusive food and drink specials until 7PM!

Golden Hour at Epiphany Center for the Arts is accentuated by free live music with food and drink specials, and, good friends… creating a magical aura that will help you, our valued patron, wind down or up your day!

Live Music Set from Jimmy Bennington 5PM - 8PM (FREE ADMISSION)

Golden Hour Specials

- $4 craft beer

- ½ priced bottle of wine

- $10 Epiphany spirits

- Delicious 2 for 1 lite bites

Christmas With Oliv and Friends

Date: Saturday, December 20th, 2025

Doors: 5:00PM to Venue | 7:00PM to Sanctuary

Showtime: 7:30PM

Tickets: Advanced - $20 (+$4.72 fees, including tax) | Day of Show - $25 (+$5.00 fees, including tax) | VIP Table for 2 - $60 (+$12.00 fees, including tax) | VIP Table for 4 - $120 (+$24.00 fees, including tax)
VIP tables include admission for 2 or 4 people and a reserved table close to the stage

‘Service charges apply to ALL ticket purchases (online and box office)’ - Credit card only at door

About:

Oliv Blu is a Chicago-based soul and R&B artist celebrated for her captivating voice, expressive songwriting, and genuine connection with her audience. First introduced to many through her standout performances on The Voice, Oliv has since carved her own path as an independent artist whose music radiates authenticity, confidence, and heart.

Last year, she released her holiday EP Christmas with Oliv, blending classic Christmas favorites with her original single Christmas Night—a song that evokes the warmth, nostalgia, and magic of the season. Whether performing with a full band or in an intimate acoustic setting, Oliv’s performances leave audiences feeling inspired, uplifted, and connected.

Golden Hour at Epiphany:

Stop by Epiphany for our live music series concerts, and be sure to hit Golden Hour before-hand for drinks and lite-bites! Doors open at 5pm Thursday - Saturday for Golden Hour with 1/2 priced bottles of wine and other specials!

Come early to EXPLORE and DISCOVER your own EPIPHANY… our art galleries are open and there is free entertainment before the show!

Please note that outside food or beverages are not permitted in the venue.

Otter Presents: A Night Of Holiday Shenanigans with Deadtronica

Date: Saturday, December 20th, 2025

Doors & Showtime: 11:00PM

Tickets: Advanced - $25 (+$5.13 fees, including tax) | Day of Show - $30 (+$6.57 fees, including tax)

‘Service charges apply to ALL ticket purchases (online and box office)’ - Credit card only at door

About:

Deadtronica is a new collaborative project from acclaimed artists Cloudchord and Aron Magner (the Disco Biscuits, Billy and the Kids). They blend a deep-rooted love for the Grateful Dead’s timeless catalog with modern dance floor production. 

The duo’s debut album Deadtronica Vol. 1, reimagines nine GD classics through a vibrant electronic lens, offering groove-heavy takes that honor the spirit of the originals. Their live show combines a DJ dance  aesthetic with the open jam philosophy that the Grateful Dead fostered into existence. 

Boyce Hudson

Date: Sunday, December 21st, 2025

Doors: 4:30PM

Showtime: 5:00PM

Tickets: Advanced - $20 (+$4.72 fees, including tax) | Day of Show - $25 (+$4.97 fees, including tax)

‘Service charges apply to ALL ticket purchases (online and box office)’ - Credit card only at door

About:

Boyce is an emerging male jazz vocalist whose unique sound seamlessly blends the emotive power of gospel with the smooth sophistication of jazz and the groove of neo-soul. With a voice that captivates listeners from the first note, Boyce brings a fresh, yet timeless approach to the world of jazz.

His musical journey began in the church, where he honed his vocal technique and developed a deep connection to the emotional depth of gospel music. Influenced by greats like Donny Hathaway, Sarah Vaughn, and Luther Vandross, his style evokes both the spirit of traditional jazz and the soulful resonance of contemporary sounds.

His smooth vocal phrasing and rich tone offer an engaging experience, blending heartfelt lyricism with rhythmic intensity that can both soothe and stir the soul. Whether he's performing intimate jazz standards or infusing his own compositions with personal depth, Boyce brings a rare artistry to the stage.

With an ever-growing fan base and a larger than life presence that commands attention, Boyce is quickly becoming a voice to watch in the jazz world. His upcoming projects promise to explore new territories in sound while paying homage to the rich traditions of jazz, soul, and gospel, making him an exciting force in the contemporary music scene.

Chicago Immigrant Orchestra With Special Guests Ana Everling, Tani Diakate and Jose Rendon

Date: Sunday, December 21st, 2025

Doors: 6:00PM

Showtime: 7:00PM

Tickets: GA Advanced - $35 (+$7.00 fees, including tax) | GA Day of Show - $40 (+$8.00 fees, including tax) | High Tops for 2 - $50 (+$10.00 fees, including tax) | VIP Table for 2: $100 (+$20.00 fees, including tax) | VIP Table for 4: $200 (+$40.00 fees, including tax)

‘Service charges apply to ALL ticket purchases (online and box office)’ - Credit card only at door

About Chicago Immigrant Orchestra:

Join us in the Cafe Bar Thursday through Saturday for free live music, starting at 5PM until 8PM. Enjoy our exclusive food and drink specials until 7PM!

Golden Hour at Epiphany Center for the Arts is accentuated by free live music with food and drink specials, and, good friends… creating a magical aura that will help you, our valued patron, wind down or up your day!

Live Music Set from ANDIE 5PM - 8PM (FREE ADMISSION)

Golden Hour Specials

- $4 craft beer

- ½ priced bottle of wine

- $10 Epiphany spirits

- Delicious 2 for 1 lite bites

Golden hour specials end at 7pm but the music doesn't stop, make sure to check out our entertainment calendar to view all of our ticketed events.

About:

ANDIE (she/her) is a Blues, Soul, and Jazz inspired songwriter, vocalist, guitarist, & bandleader of ANDIE & The Bandits. She has been involved in Chicago’s music scene for over 9 years, having attended Columbia College Chicago for her Bachelor's in Contemporary Music, playing at venues all across Chicago while pursuing her degree. ANDIE’s 2022 NPR Tiny Desk Submission for her song “He’s Not What You Need Blues” was described as “a skillful exploration of the hurt that comes with being betrayed” by NPR. The past couple of years, ANDIE & The Bandits has held residencies at Golden Dagger in 2023, and Epiphany Center for the Arts in

Neptunes Core with Jane Hobson and Anna Henson

Date: Saturday, December 27th, 2025

Doors: 5:00PM to Venue | 7:00PM to Sanctuary

Showtime: 8:00PM

Tickets: Early Bird - $15 (+$4.57 fees, including tax) | Advanced - $20 (+$4.72 fees, including tax) | Day of Show - $25 (+$5.00 fees, including tax)

About Neptune's Core:

Neptune's Core is an alternative indie rock band made up of two sets of sisters. The four created the bad-ass group out of Chicago’s thriving indie-rock scene. Jim DeRogits summed it up best on Sound Opinions: "Their age belies the sophistication of the songwriting and instrumentation ... classic alternative era with delicate fragile quiet moments exploding into loud dynamics."

As talented multi-instrumentalists and passionate music fans, they seek to bring their music to life with a love of indie and punk music while having a background in jazz and classical music. And that’s not to mention their heartfelt lyrics and the catharsis when they belt them out.

Jill Hopkins (Metro Chicago and Host of Opus Podcast) says, “Every few years in Chicago as the new wave of rock band makes themselves known, a few rise to the top through a mix of talent, timing, uniqueness, and natural charm. And I have not seen many bands do that as well or as quickly as the women of Neptune’s Core.”

Neptune's Core brings forth new sounds and new emotions with their latest EP, Called Upon (Side Hustle Records).

About Jane Hobson: 

The Epiphany Lounge Featuring Chris Greene

Date: Sunday, December 28th, 2025

Doors: 2:30PM

Showtime: 3:00PM

Tickets: FREE ADMISSION |RSVP BELOW

‘Service charges apply to ALL ticket purchases (online and box office)’ - Credit card only at door

About:

Saxophonist and composer Chris Greene was born in Evanston, IL. He spent his formative years in the award-winning Evanston High School Wind and Jazz Ensembles. As a teenager he began to play professionally with many local pop/rock and jazz bands. Greene eventually went to Bloomington, IN to attend the prestigious Indiana University Jazz Studies program and studied with renowned professor and cellist David Baker.  Greene returned to Chicago in 1994 and has since collaborated with some of the nation’s most creative and versatile musicians. As a performer, Greene can be seen with many different groups - in many different genres. He also leads his own award-winning and critically-acclaimed band, the Chris Greene Quartet. 

100% Bachata Sunday

Date: Sunday, December 28th, 2025

Doors: 5:30PM

Showtime: 6:00PM

Tickets: Early Bird - $17 (+$2.66 fees, including tax) | Tier 1 General Admission - $20 (+$2.66 fees, including tax) | Tier 2 General Admission - $25 (+$2.81 fees, including tax) | Day of Show - $25 (+$2.81 fees, including tax)

‘Service charges apply to ALL ticket purchases (online and box office)’ - Credit card only at door

About:

Indigo: Transitions

Date: Sunday, December 28th, 2025

Doors: 6:30PM

Showtime: 7:00PM

Tickets: Advanced - $15 (+$4.57 fees, including tax) | Day of Show - $20 (+$4.72 fees, including tax)

‘Service charges apply to ALL ticket purchases (online and box office)’ - Credit card only at door

About:

Indigo: Transitions will be an evening of musical exploration and storytelling. We invite You to join us for two sets of original compositions, improvisation, and arrangements all rooted in soul music and storytelling. 

Indigo  is a vocalist, composer, and curator from the southside of Chicago. Rooted in the traditions of Black Music and the deep study of Black Aesthetics, her art moves with purpose—telling stories that seek truth and connection. 

Indigo is the founder and host of Indigo Sessions, a show series meant to highlight the creations of Black Women and Black Queer creatives. Indigo Sessions was born from her personal longing—for safety, for kinship, for a place where We could show up fully, without apology. It has found home in beloved spaces like Epiphany Center for the Arts, Dorothy and The.BlkRoom, continuing to grow as a living archive of community, artistry, and liberation.

Indigo is currently a resident artist at Epiphany Center for the Arts, where she continues to expand her work across performance and curation. This performance will feature:

Indigo on Vocals and Poetry

Nick2Bomb on Turntables 

Carmani Edwards on the Bass

Daniel Gayden on the Drums 

Max Lazerus on the Keys and Saxophone

Anne & Mark Burnell's 22nd Annual Eve of the Eve

Date: Tuesday, December 30th, 2025

Doors: 5:00PM to Venue | 6:30PM to Sanctuary

Showtime: 7:00PM

Tickets: General Admission - $35 (+$7.00 fees, including tax) (TICKETS AVAILABLE!!!)
VIP Table for 2 - $90 (+$18.00 fees, including tax) (SOLD OUT!!!)
VIP Table for 4 - $180 (+$22.91 fees, including tax) (SOLD OUT!!!)
Charcuterie Board for 2 Addon - $30 (+$6.57 fees, including tax)
Charcuterie Board for 2 + Wine Bottle Addon - $70 (+14.46 fees, including tax)

VIP tables include admission for 2 or 4 people and a reserved table close to the stage

‘Service charges apply to ALL ticket purchases (online and box office)’ - Credit card only at door

About:

Kick off the New Year a day early! Anne Burnell and Mark Burnell host their 22st Annual Eve of the Eve show the Sanctuary, Epiphany Center for the Arts, 201 S Ashland, Chicago, Monday, December 30th, at 7:00pm. A musical celebration featuring Chicago Singers: Broadway, cabaret , pop, jazz, blues, and comedy. Cocktails and lite bites will be available. This night has become a favorite celebration in Chicago, reminiscent of the variety shows of the 60's and 70's.

Wine & Charcuterie Boards are only being pre-sold and are made to order. They will not be available to purchase the day of the event. Pre-sale for the wine & Charcuterie Boards close on the 15th at 5 pm. 

New Years Eve: N°26 with Thank You For Dancing

Date: Wednesday, December 31st, 2025

Doors & Showtime: 8:00PM (NO RE-ENTRY!!!)

Tickets: Super Early Bird - $15 (+$4.47 fees, including tax) | Early Bird 1 - $25 (+$4.72 fees, including tax) | Early Bird 2 - $35 (+$7.00 fees, including tax) | General Admission 1 - $45 (+$9.00 fees, including tax) | General Admission 2 - $55 (+$11.00 fees, including tax) | General Admission 3 - $65 (+$13.00 fees, including tax) | General Admission 4 - $75 (+$15.00 fees, including tax) | Last Call - $85 (+$17.00 fees, including tax) | Final Call - $100 (+$20.00 fees, including tax)

Coat Check available for $5

‘Service charges apply to ALL ticket purchases (online and box office)’ - Credit card only at door

About:

Ring in the New Year in unforgettable fashion at Epiphany Center for the Arts—Chicago’s legendary church-turned-cultural landmark and venue. Step inside and explore three immersive stages, each with its own energy and aesthetic. Enjoy a 12AM countdown that shakes the room and a full night of elevated entertainment including a karaoke lounge, boiler-room style DJ stage, stilt walkers, live specialty performers, tarot card readers, and curated surprises throughout the night.