View all names for 2022

As 2022 draws to a close, A&E writers and critics look back at the year to celebrate some of those who made a difference in the arts.

“2022 will be a banner year for the Chicago trio,” writes Britt Julious. The band released “Blue Skies”, their fourth and most famous record.

“The highlight was playing our new records in real rooms for real people in real life,” says band member Jason Balla.

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“Makaya McCraven’s combination of on-the-moment improvisation with the hip-hop producer’s sensibility has made him a global music phenomenon,” writes Hannah Edgar.

This year, McCraven released “In These Times,” his first album dedicated to pieces he’s performed on his own compositions over the years.

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“For the past few years, all eyes have been on the Chicago Sinfonietta,” Hannah Edgar wrote. In recent years, the group has launched an artist-in-residence program, implemented a new pay-as-you-go ticket pricing model, doubled its operating budget and announced new shows at the Auditorium Theatre.

At the helm of the Sinfonietta is Blake-Anthony Johnson, an unassuming, soft-spoken cellist-turned-executive.

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This year, public libraries have become a battleground for organizations and even hate groups that oppose everything from mask mandates and LGBTQ rights to YA fiction about racism.

“You’ve probably heard of this,” wrote Christopher Borrelli. “Less reported are those library boards who voted to reject such challenges (at Downers Grove and elsewhere) and library staff who reaffirmed the fundamental idea of ​​libraries as public spaces for all.”

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The Giordano Dance Company of Chicago celebrated its 60th anniversary this year after the pandemic nearly forced them to close their doors.

“Unsung heroes in the form of arts administrators have saved countless organizations from financial ruin,” writes Lauren Warnecke. “In GDC’s case, the hero is executive director Michael McStraw.”

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Rebecca Fons breaks out at the Gene Siskel Film Center, which has an annual budget of $1.5 million.

Critic Michael Phillips wrote: “Fons has implemented a strategic shift in its programming portfolio, relaxing the show schedule to allow greater flexibility and some late additions, and – crucially – attracting young Significant engagement from the audience.”

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This year has seen a steady stream of Ron OJ Parson-directed hits: from Tyla Abercrumbie’s epic “Ruthless” to August Wilson’s August Wilson’s “Two Trains Are Running,” to Alice Childress’ “Trouble in the Heart.”

Critic Chris Jones wrote: “In 2022, no director has done more for the Chicago theater whose town needs more talent from artists.”

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