City Cast Chicago
🕺 Welcome to New Berlin
April 28, 2026 · — Emmi Mack
Spotted: Jason Alexander at Navy Pier. The “Seinfeld” actor is directing “Fault,” a bickering marriage farce that opened at Chicago Shakespeare Theater over the weekend.
Also now open: Decibel, the new-but-not club replacing Berlin. More on that below 👀
What's CITY Talking About
Man Charged in Swedish Hospital Shooting
Twenty-six-year-old Alphanso Talley is facing a litany of charges over Saturday’s shooting at Swedish Hospital. Already a suspect in a robbery, Talley was brought to the hospital, where he allegedly shot two Chicago cops, killing John Bartholomew, before escaping and setting off a manhunt. [Block Club]
Chicago Bridge Report. Also, Are Bagels Really Worth a Line Around the Block?
It’s officially bridge-lifting season in Chicago. But as several bridges remain closed for construction, we’re wondering about the overall state of Chicago’s bridges. Also on today’s podcast: Why are folks lining up early at the city’s newest bagel shop? [City Cast Chicago 🎧]
Immigration Raids Squeeze Chicago Labor Market
President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement has led to a shortage of roofers, concrete layers, and landscapers. Construction projects across the city are now seeing delays and higher costs. [Sun-Times]
Water Tower Place Is Getting a Makeover
Water Tower Place’s owner, MetLife Investment Management, is spending $170 million to overhaul its lower floors. Additions include a “pedestrian arcade” on the ground floor and restaurants on the mezzanine. But say goodbye to that two-story elevator. [Crain’s 🎁]
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The Middle of Everything
Ever notice how the best part of anything is right in the middle? Come see for yourself in Illinois, where you can hit the trails in breathtaking state parks. Experience classic Americana on Route 66. And even kayak through a glistening canyon of skyscrapers. It’s all right here in Illinois.
What To Do
Tuesday, April 28
- 🐟 Free night | Shedd Aquarium | Museum Campus
- 🎙️ Canto-Kójo Open Mic | Call & Response Books | Hyde Park
- 🎺 International Jazz Day | Epiphany Center for the Arts | Near West Side | Free
- 🎶 FRE JAM | Lemon | West Town | Free
- 🕹️ Game Night Club | Austin Branch | Free
- 🎷 The International Jazz Day | Hamilton Park | Englewood | Free
- 🥁 15th Annual International Jazz Day | Dusable Museum | Washington Park | Free
Wednesday, April 29
- 🦖 Free admission | Field Museum | Museum Campus
- 🖼️ Pay What You Wish Wednesday | Driehaus Museum | River North
- 🏛️ Free admission | Illinois Holocaust Museum | River North
- 🌻 Becoming: Cody Norman | Garfield Park Conservatory | Free
- 🛼 All Ages Skate Lessons | The Rink | Avalon Park
- 💔 Laugh Through The Heartbreak | Laugh Factory | Lakeview East
- 🧸 Happy Accident Puppet Show | Lemon | West Town
- 🥁 GENA (Liv.e + Karriem Riggins) | Sleeping Village | Avondale
- ⚽️ Pickup Soccer | Portage Park | Free
- 💃🏻 Country Dancing 101 | Ballroom Dance Chicago Loft | West Loop
Sponsored Content
Harness Your Power at The Working Lunch
The Power of WE is the power to change lives and transform futures. Join Women Employed on May 14th for their signature fundraiser, The Working Lunch. Enjoy networking and inspiration, and celebrate leaders who are building women’s power—standing strong against attacks, lifting up their needs, and bringing their voices to the tables where fundamental and systemic change happens.
💕 Finally, a massive thank you to everyone who became a City Cast Chicago Neighbor over the last few days: Julianne H., Murray D., Barry T., and Brandon W.
I can’t wait to see you at our upcoming event with the Chicago Architecture Center — one of our many membership perks.
The spring campaign may be over, but it’s never too late to become a City Cast Chicago Neighbor!
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