Stereophonic, the most Tony award nominated play ever, has arrived in Chicago!  It’s a homecoming for one of the stars of the show Emilie Kouatchou, who plays Holly. Andrea talks to Emilie about growing up in Palatine, performing on stage at Fremd High School, studying at Northwestern and what it means to be performing in one of the most celebrated “plays with music” in history! Stereophonic runs 1/27-2/8 at the CIBC Theatre.  Tickets: BroadwayinChicago.com

The most anticipated culinary event of the year, Chicago Restaurant Week is finally here!  17 days, more than 500 participating restaurants in Chicago and the suburbs, all offering prix fixe brunches, lunches and dinners where you can sample some of the best food in the country for exceptional prices!  Choose Chicago’s VP of Partnerships Jordan Engerman joins Andrea to talk about this incredible week for all foodies, celebrating its 19th year! Information: choosechicago.com

The Boat Show is back in Rosemont, celebrating its 94th show! Andrea talks to Show Manager Jeff Marquard about sailboats, speedboats, pontoons and everything in between.  Jeff talks about new brands & models, new products and cruisers!  Plus there are interactive displays featuring trout fishing for kids, a paddle fest pool, a surfing simulator, and bumper boats!  The Boat Show is at the Stephens Convention Center from January 28-February 1st.  Info: Chicagoboatshow.com

Next, Chicago International Puppet Theatre Festival continues at various locations throughout Chicago. Director Sandy Gerding talks to Andrea about the 8th annual festival, which features 100 events over 12 days, at landmark theatres, intimate works on smaller stages, the late night puppet cabarets and a long list of free puppet events all over the city.  The festival runs through February 1st. Tickets and information:  chicagopuppetfest.org

And, it’s a “New Year, New Hue” at the Color Factory in Chicago.  To celebrate, they’re hosting a special night on Sunday January 25th, where guests can come and experience 14 colorful rooms featuring interactive installations and collaborations from around the world. Color Factory’s Lorena Mendez tells Andrea there will be an aura reader on site, taking portraits and offering insightful interpretations for the new year!  Information: colorfactory.co