Stars of musical theater typically don’t give solo concerts, but Bernadette Peters is not a typical stage diva. With starring roles in Stephen Sondheim’s “Sunday in the Park with George” and “Into the Woods,” she stands as a major interpreter of the composer’s work, as well as a formidable artist in a range of Broadway fare. For her Ravinia show, she’ll traverse familiar fare and novelties, performing with an orchestra. The concert begins at 8 p.m. Tuesday. Admission is $30 in the pavilion, $10 on the lawn. Call 312-RAVINIA.
– Howard Reich
BLACK EXPO ’96
Whether you go for the seminars, the gospel music or the sweet potato pie, the 7th annual Black Expo will have something for everyone Friday through Sunday at the North Building of McCormick Place, 24rd Street and Lake Shore Drive. More than 700 small businesses will participate in the expo, which also will feature art, fashion, seminars, music and even a baking contest. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Saturday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $8 adults; $5 seniors and teens; $3.75 for children ages 6-11. Call 312-949-9440.
– Shirley Henderson
HUMAN RHYTHM PROJECT
The Chicago Human Rhythm Project started in 1990 with a weekend tap workshop. Now, for its sixth annual festival, it will offer eight days of master classes, seminars and performances by Chicago dancers and special guests featuring movement to classical, jazz and hip-hop music. Artists performing during the first days of the event include Fred Kelly in a tribute to his brother Gene and percussive salutes to other tap-dancing greats. They will be followed by a number of world premieres, including choreography influenced by street dancing and the sticks and drums of “STOMP.” All the artists will perform at the opening night benefit gala. The Project runs from Thursday through July 21, Harold Washington Library. Call 312-761-4889.
– Nancy Maes
RIALTO COUNTRY
Popular country music stars John Berry and Ty Herndon will highlight the summer concert season at Rialto Square Theatre at 8 p.m. Thursday. Berry’s country tinged with R&B has made his two albums (“John Berry” and “Standing on the Edge”) a favorite among critics, while Herndon’s latest single, “Living in a Moment,” is rising quickly on the country charts. Tickets are $23.50 main floor and balcony; $28.50 orchestra pit. The Rialto is at 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet. To order tickets, call 815-726-6600 or 312-559-1212.
– Shirley Henderson
OPERA IN THE ‘BURBS
Soprano Elizabeth Murphy will appear in Puccini’s “La Rondine” in the role of Lisette, a maid with theatrical aspirations, in a DuPage Opera Theatre presentation. “La Rondine” is conducted by Harold Bauer. The production begins at 8 p.m. Saturday and Tuesday as well as July 12 and 13 in the College of DuPage’s Arts Center, 22nd Street and Lambert Road, Glen Ellyn. Tickets are $18; $17 seniors; $15 students. Call 708-942-4000.
– Shirley Henderson
