Illinois Bicentennial officials and Commissioners have released the preliminary details of Illinois’ 200th birthday celebration at the United Center in Chicago, Monday, Dec. 3. The event will celebrate the 200th anniversary of Illinois’ recognition as the 21st state of the Union.
Illinois celebrities and contributors in all walks of life, including entertainment, sports, and politics, will be invited to participate. Initial talent confirmed to participate include, members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Styx, Blues legend Buddy Guy, the Chicago Bears, Olympic Champion Jackie Joyner Kersee, Bill Kurtis, and Joe Mantegna.
Legendary Illinois journalist Bill Kurtis opened the announcement recently by video. “I am honored to have been asked to emcee the state of Illinois’ 200th Birthday Party,” Kurtis said. “We will be delighted to welcome an incredible roster of Illinois talent to the stage of the United Center.”
A special veterans commemoration, presented by Illinois’ Joe Mantegna, will recognize the sacrifice Illinoisans have made more than 200 years. There will be recognition of the Bicentennial’s Honor 200, veterans chosen across the State for going above and beyond service to their fellow veterans, with a performance by members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
The evening’s programming will mix historical video and live entertainment, including musical performances by an array of Illinois artists of different genres, including performances by Styx and other to be announced musical guests.
“We are extremely grateful to have some of Illinois’ entertainment titans helping us with the plans for the Bicentennial Birthday Party,” said Stuart Layne the executive director of the Governor’s Office of the Bicentennial. “Everyone at the United Center has been so helpful and our thanks go out to Jerry Reinsdorf and Rocky Wirtz (UC owners).”
A limited number of tickets went on sale to the general public Friday, July 6 at 10 a.m. at the United Center Box Office and Ticketmaster.com.
All Bicentennial events and programs are privately funded. Lead sponsors for the Birthday Party include Wintrust Bank and Bicentennial veteran’s program sponsors Boeing, Walgreens, and Comed.
—Illinois Press Association
