Kristy Cates

Kristy Cates has performed on Broadway, at the Tony Awards and currently stars in the leading role as Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, in Chicago's blockbuster production of Wicked.  Now, Arlington Heights' Metropolis Performing Arts Centre has announced a rare solo performance by Cates, one-night-only, Monday, October 9, 2006 at 7:30 pm.

This will be your chance to join a musical excursion with the current star of Wicked as Cates performs her favorite numbers: old standards and lesser-known tunes, touching ballads and dynamic showstoppers.  It's billed as an evening full of stories, laughter and a few surprises and she's bringing a "Special Guest" to join her for a few numbers.  This will be an opportunity for those who love music to be able to see Cates in an intimate setting.

In 2003, Kristy starred in the off-Broadway production Boobs! The Musical which celebrated the songs of legendary 50's and 60's singer, Ruth Wallis. Playing Ruth Wallis herself along with a barrage of other characters (including a medicated Mary Poppins, and a Follies Bergere wannabe) Kristy garnered positive reviews from critics. Three months into the run, Kristy auditioned for and was cast in the new musical, Wicked as a member of the ensemble and understudy to Idina Menzel. On the original cast recording she can be heard singing "No one cries, they won't return!" and "I hear some rebel animals are giving her food and shelter."

In March of 2005, when the star of the Wicked national tour, the incomparable Stephanie Block, was injured, Kristy was immediately flown to Toronto to play Elphaba as Stephanie recovered. While in Toronto, she was asked to join the Chicago cast of Wicked as standby to SNL alum, Ana Gasteyer and later took over the role when Ana Gasteyer’s contract ended.

Cates holds a BFA from CCM.  She recently presented a solo concert as part of Broadway Downtown in NYC and was honored to sing the National Anthem for the Chicago Bears, Bulls and White Sox.

Metropolis is located in the heart of Chicago's northwest suburbs, at 111 W. Campbell St. one block south of the downtown Arlington Heights Metra station.  Free parking is available in the covered garage directly behind the theater.  Patrons can ask the box office to book pre- or post-show dinner reservations at nearby restaurants including Carlos and Carlos, a new dining destination located right in the Metropolis complex.

Tickets are only $25.  For tickets and information, call the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre at (847) 577-2121, or visit http://www.metropolisarts.com