Ravinia 2025 Issue 1

WHEN CONSIDERING THE HEAD-SPINNING ARTISTS coming to Ravinia in June for a very special double bill, it’s hard not to hear the words of RuPaul: “Two queens stand before me.” These particular women do indeed rule, inspiring fans to gen- uflect over their music, fashion, and identity. Behold Grace Jones and Janelle Monáe! Of course, either legendary artist alone could entice a throng to Ravinia’s Lawn. Together—Grace the alien, Janelle the android—well, that heady mix of high-concept artistry feels irresistible. But wait, there’s more! The June 7 double concert is paired with what’s now become an annual dance party at Ravinia thrown by Queen! No, not the rock band—the beloved queer dance party, taking a rare spin outside of its Wrigleyville home. So, make that three queens, then. Even more, really, as the dance party always fea- tures drag queens as hosts, too. All that fabulousness on the lawn and stage could fuel a whole season of Drag Race All Stars . It’s not the first time the big queer dance bash has twirled up at Ravinia. Indeed, it’s been a summer highlight since 2022, when Queen! celebrated the 40th anniversary of its host venue, Metro/smartbar. (Anyone who’s never been to one of Queen!’s week- ly parties will soon learn why the exclamation point belongs in the name.) But the previous three appearances all happened just as Ravinia wound down for the year, on a penultimate date in early September. This time it migrates to the top of the concert calendar, helping kick off Pride Month and, frankly, usurping the June 29 parade for the title of best LGBTQ bash of the season. RAVINIA.ORG  • RAVINIAMAGAZINE 7