Hoogland Center for the Arts production of Sweeney Todd is coming up just in time for the Halloween season. The musical tells the story of Sweeney Todd, an unjustly exiled barber who returns to London seeking vengeance against the judge who framed him and ravaged his young wife. The road to revenge leads Sweeney to Mrs. Lovett, the crafty owner of a failing pie shop above which he opens a new barber practice. Local vocal teacher Stephanie Myre is portraying Mrs. Lovett in this production. She spoke to Community Voices about being a performer in Chicago and about the message behind Sweeney Todd. Find tickets and dates for the show here.

The Illinois Symphony Orchestra (ISO) begins its 2024-2025 season with “Festive Fanfare.” The concert, conducted by ISO music director Taichi Fukumura, will feature Walton's Spitfire Prelude and Fugue, Coleridge-Taylor's Violin Concerto with violinist Braimah Kanneh-Mason, and Dvořák's Symphony No. 8.The ISO performs in Springfield on Friday Oct. 18, at 7:30 p.m. and in Normal on Saturday Oct. 19, at 7:30 p.m. For ticket information visit: ilsymphony.org

“How Women Made Music,” a new book from NPR Music, was inspired by NPR’s “Turning The Tables” series and collects more than 50 years of essays and interviews. NPR Music’s Ann Powers and editor of the book Alison Fensterstock spoke to Community Voices about how the book was put together and the impact women have made in the evolution of music.

Richard Kyte is a professor, author, and national expert on third places. Third places refer to places outside of home and work where people socialize. Kyte spoke to Community Voices about the importance of third places, how they've shifted over time, and about his new book Finding Your Third Place: Building Happier Communities (and Making Great Friends Along the Way). Rick also talks about how to find and create third places in our society today.

Reggie Britton is the lead vocalist, drummer, and harmonica player for central Illinois blues band Black Magic Johnson.Reggie discussed the path of his musical journey including playing with Buddy Guy, Koko Taylor, Lonnie Brooks and others. He also shares his challenge with cancer.

Kate Schwartz (formerly known as Mark Schwartz) is a central Illinois musician who has recorded over 40 albums under her own name and with bands End Times Trio, Forest Saints, Tin Ghost, Demons on Wheels, and collaborations like Petulant Clark. Kate shares how she recently transitoned and how she facillitates a trans support group at the Phoenix Center.

The Legacy Theatre is serving the community with its regional premiere of the hit musical “Waitress.” Director Lori Ann McCabe and leading lady Elizabeth Eckert spoke to Community Voices about the show, which features music by Sara Bareilles. They highlighted the cast members and explained how many pies it takes to perform “Waitress.”The show runs Oct. 11-13, 16-20 and 23-27. For tickets visit: https://www.atthelegacy.com/

“Journey to Freedom: Illinois’ Underground Railroad” is a new traveling exhibit, which highlights the people and challenges of the Underground Railroad. Sarah Watson, executive director of Looking for Lincoln and the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area, and Program Manager of Looking for Lincoln Heather Feezor spoke to Community Voices about the exhibit and how it shares stories often unheard about the underground railroad.The exhibit is on view and open to the public at the Lincoln Library: Springfield’s Public Library through November 30, 2024.To learn more visit: https://www.lookingforlincoln.org/

This year is the 150th anniversary of the dedication of the Lincoln’s Tomb. President of the Old State Capitol Foundation Crystal Boyd and Vice President Alex Smith spoke to Community Voices about the celebration of the 150th anniversary on Oct. 12, which will feature food, a President Grant impersonator and 1800 TinType photography.

MERCY Communities is celebrating its 25th anniversary with an open house on Oct. 11 from 4-7:00 p.m. at MERCY’s Administrative Office at 1344 N. 5th St. in Springfield. Executive Director Amy Voils and Board Member Sister Marilyn Jean Runkel spoke to Community Voices about the organization and its roots with the Dominican Sisters in Springfield. They also shared how transitional and permanent housing reduces homelessness and leads to independent living.To learn more visit: https://www.mercycommunities.org/