Playlist Culture
Culture
What to Watch in September
From the final season of Poldark to a timely new Frontline investigation about the Flint water crisis to an in-depth look at man's best friend, find September's must-see shows as chosen by the person who programs them.
What 'Sesame Street' Looks Like Around the World
There are more than 30 international co-productions of Sesame Street, all adapted to local cultures and issues, and many featuring their own unique characters. Take a look at some of the streets (or trees, or gardens) around the world where Muppets and humans teach children valuable lessons.
Meet the Newest 'Chicago Tonight' Correspondent
Angel Idowu is a Chicago native who is excited to return home after farflung journalistic assignments. “When I wasn’t living in Chicago, every time I heard someone say Chicago or saw an Illinois license plate I would get excited," she says.
Geoffrey Baer's Architecture Road Trips
Chicago isn't the only place in the Midwest with exceptional architecture. Geoffrey Baer spotlights road trip-worthy destinations within driving distance of Chicago, from well-known marvels to hidden gems in unexpected places.
Introducing WTTW's New Head of Programming — And Her August Shows to Watch
Learn a bit about WTTW's new Head of Programming and Pledge, Lisa Tipton, and what she loves most about scheduling WTTW's shows. Plus, get her must-watch recommendations for August.
PBS Announces Local Livestreaming and 2020 Shows
PBS has announced a local livestreaming service in partnership with YouTube, as well as some exciting new shows coming in 2020, from WTTW's Prehistoric Road Trip to the five-part Asian Americans and a pair of new documentaries, about Rita Moreno and George W. Bush.
How Millennium Park Became "America's Most Dazzling Urban Park"
Millennium Park, which opened fifteen years ago today, was supposed to be just another pleasant, dull park that would cover up railroad tracks. But the commissioning of internationally known artists and architects transformed it into an ever-popular, unique cultural destination.
New PBS Kids Show 'Molly of Denali' Is First to Feature a Native American Lead
Molly of Denali, a new PBS Kids series that premieres on July 15, is the first national children's series to feature a Native American lead character, and includes Alaska Natives in all aspects of production, from scriptwriters to actors to music.
The Performers of 'A Capitol Fourth' in 2019
From Carole King and the cast of a Broadway musical about her life to Sesame Street Muppets to Colbie Caillat, this year's A Capitol Fourth features the old and new across various genres. Meet the performers here.
Cows Parade Once Again Through Downtown Chicago
Twenty years ago, "Cows on Parade" generated boundless enthusiasm, extraordinary tourism, millions of dollars, innumerable imitation exhibitions, and endless bovine puns. Now some of the original cows are returning to the public eye to celebrate the twentieth anniversary.
Idiosyncratic Chicago Architect Stanley Tigerman Has Died
Stanley Tigerman, a Chicago-based architect known for his idiosyncratic views and buildings, has died at the age of 88. He designed the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center in Skokie and the Anti-Cruelty Animal Shelter on LaSalle Street, among other vibrant buildings.
How the Muppets of 'Sesame Street' Address Specific Issues
June 1 is the birthday of not one but two beloved Sesame Street characters: Oscar the Grouch and the more recently introduced Rudy. Celebrate by taking a look at some of the best-known Muppets and the issues each is meant to address for children.
What to Watch in June
A favorite mystery series returns while several documentaries reveal little-known or understood history, tackling everything from political repression in China to sexual assault. Plus, a performance by Prince!
What to Stream This Month
Stream a stranger-than-fiction story of a wife who discovers her former intelligence officer husband had hidden lives. Revisit an infamous miscarriage of justice with Ken Burns. Map family histories with Henry Louis Gates, Jr. And enlighten yourself with NOVA.
Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of 'Sesame Street' With Us!
In celebration of its 50th anniversary, Sesame Street is coming to Chicago for a free family festival that includes live performances, fun kid-friendly activities, and much more!
