March 31st, 2012

It was a big year in country music, and it all came alive at the Mandalay Bay Event Center in Las Vegas. Country award shows are special to me because of their easy style. Unlike many of the awards shows, this one is so approachable, friendly and fun. At any given moment you can be standing in the hallway and along comes Tim McGraw and his wife Faith laughing, telling jokes and fixing each other's apparel. The next moment The Band Perry walks by, hugging and kissing everyone and eating strawberries. Highlighting the event were Blake Shelton and Reba McEntire who hosted this sparkling Dick Clark production which kicked off with an electric performance by Carrie Underwood doing her latest hit single "Good Girl".

February 26th, 2012

The legacy of a brilliant artist was honored Sunday night at the River East Art Gallery (Matt Lamb Museum) as hundreds of friends, family, and dignitaries gathered- some from as far away as Spain, Germany, and the U.K. Recapturing a lifetime of achievements (artistic and otherwise) is not an easy task; yet the family of Matt Lamb did a terrific job in accomplishing this. He once told me as he gave me a personal guided tour (around his near-west side studio) that there is essentially a physical world and spiritual world, and he credits his achievements in artwork to being in tune with spirituality .... Initiated after the attacks on Sept. 11th, 2001, Matt turned a common, ordinary object (an umbrella) into an international symbol of peace, hope, and love. This instrument became an emotional outlet for children and adults in 39 different countries around the world.

February 22nd, 2012

"Art is the universal language, and it can change the world". This belief statement is the foundation of Matt Lamb's state of mind, whereby spirituality enabled him to accomplish his artwork and influence the hopes and dreams of others .... Following in the footsteps of his father, Matt Lamb prospered as an undertaker; yet he did not pick up a paintbrush until he was 45 years old ! After being misdiagnosed or miraculously cured of several illnesses, he opened his first painting studio in Chicago (in 1986) and decided to spread his message of peace, hope, love, and tolerance through his works of art. Two more studios were established in 1988 (in Florida) and another one in Wisconsin in 1990.

February 12, 2012

Adele - winner of 6 Grammys   Celebrating the Grammys this year was unusually challenging by the untimely death of Whitney Houston. The aura behind stage was bitter sweet. Trying to cope with the terrible news and still be up for their stage presences was not an easy task for many artists. We all thank you for your courageous souls and performances. Hats off to the producer Ken Ehrlich for the phenomenal job he did that night. Last minute changes were added and taken away from the show. That is not an easy task before going live in front of millions of fans and peers in less than three hours. Before the show started he came out on stage and made a tribute to Whitney and thanked the audience for being there and held a moment of silence. After acknowledging her passing, he allowed the individual performers to voice their own private feelings....

February 2nd, 2012

On the lawn of Mar-a-Lago   The 21st Annual Cavallino Classic kicked off on January 17th offering spectators from around the globe spectacular views of jets, yachts, and Ferraris among the lush, tropical surroundings on the shores of the Atlantic ocean. The world famous Breakers Hotel was the site where an estimated 500 people showed up to behold vintage Ferraris on the front lawn next to 80' tall palm trees. The first day of events was at the private hangar of the Palm Beach Airport where state-of-the art jets lined up, as well as old vintage one's, allowing visitors the chance to visit the interiors of these magnificent aircrafts while sipping champagne. One of my dear friends Marilyn Hoffman was a sponsor (with millions of dollars of properties on display) at the ShowBoats Yacht Hop at Rybovich Yacht Club on Friday night. Unbelievable yachts ! They started at 180 feet and accommodated everything from a mintature helicopter, roof top hot tub, a sunken bar equipped with seats in the water to a full size master bedroom with walk-in showers for his and her's, not to mention the private room for all the pets to rest with their very own valet to assist their every need.

January 14th, 2012

Irene Michaels and Emily Blunt   A great way to start film festival week was with a dear friend of mine, Patrick Mundt, who hosted an intimate party for some of the festival's prominent A-listers and celebrities at his beautiful home. The next evening was the festival's opening film "Salmon Fishing in the Yemen". Written by Oscar winner Simon Beaufy, "Salmon Fishing " combines the sport of fly fishing, political maneuvering, and romance along with the idea of making seemingly impossible things possible. Starring Ewan McGregor and Emily Blunt, the film is set to be released on March 9th, 2012. The after party was hosted by Cartier, and raised more than $1 million for the Palm Springs International Film Society. The following evening Brenda Sexton (of Chicago Links Productions) and Greg Nye hosted a cocktail reception at their charming house in Palm Dessert. The Gala was star studded as usual, however this year's (in my opinion) topped all the past years' with celebrity icons. Some of Hollywood's best and brightest stars graced the red carpet including George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Glenn Close, Michelle Williams, Gary Oldman and Charlize Theron as this film spectacular got underway; highlighting 187 films from 73 countries, including 60 premiers.

January 1st, 2012

Lisa Madigan's Christmas party   Dear Readers, The New Year always brings many new thoughts and promises as well as past memories. I feel very fortunate to be able to share with all of you some of my wonderful and special moments. The following photos are of this past year, and each and every one of them has a special meaning. Blessings to all the new friends I have made, the new sights that I have seen and the support of all of you, have made this truly a very exceptional year. Thank you, Irene Michaels

December 15th, 2011

Jessica Biel   Turning up the heat to keep you warm this holiday season is the much-anticipated premier of "New Year's Eve", directed by Garry Marshall and including an all-star cast of Robert De Niro, Halle Barry, Michelle Pfeiffer, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Hillary Swank. This romantic comedy takes place in New York city on December 31st and revolves around a group of people whose lives intertwine, combining love, hope, reconciliations, etc. ... The scenarios of this vast array of characters are so brief, short lived, and fast paced that it becomes a challenge for the viewer to keep up with so many situations. Although this film is lacking character development, a ray of talented light does shine through; there seems to be a natural chemistry between Michelle Pfeiffer and Zac Efron... whereas Michelle Pfeiffer quits her job and selects bike messenger Zac Efron to help her achieve her New Year's resolutions.

November 28th, 2011

Luke Bryan performs at the 45th annual CMA Awards   Country music stars were shining brightly at the 45th annual CMA Awards show in the heart of country music land Nashville, Tennessee in front of a captive national TV audience on November 9th at Bridgestone Arena. Co - hosting this year's event were the charming and popular country music personalities Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood. The show was well paced, energetic, and featured a mixture of musical performers from new up and comers Zac Brown, Luke Bryan, Lady Antebellum, Perry Brown and established acts such as Taylor Swift, Rascal Flatts, Kenny Chesney, Faith Hill, and Tim McGraw. Lionel Richie and the legendary Glen Campbell made special appearances, both receiving standing ovations. Some notables spotted in the crowd were former NFL Pitttsburgh quarterback Terry Bradshaw and TV's "Modern Family" star Eric Stonestreet and the ever controversial Glenn Beck.

November 15th, 2011

Pooches up for adoption   Man's best friend was treated like royalty as tails were wagging, paws were shaken, and all breeds were barking at the 10th annual PAWS Fur Ball held at the magnificent Drake Hotel. Canines large and small gathered at the captivating hotel for this formal gala in honor of the no-kill dogs shelter located at 1997 N. Clybourn Ave. The queen of England would've been envious of the ladies in stylish dresses and men in pristine tuxedos who showed up to eat, drink, and raise thousands to help all types of hounds- from the smallest Yorkie to the largest Great Dane .... The glittering event started in the French and Walton Rooms with delectable hors d'oeuvres and ice cold cocktails satisfying everyone before the exquisite buffet dinner commenced in the Gold Coast Room and Grand Ballroom. Auctioneer Simon Lambert excited the crowd with an enthusiastic live auction which followed a culinary dinner and the lively French Room disco opened its doors .

October 21, 2011

La La Anthony, Clive Davis, Kim Kardashian   Every year the quest continues for research in the fields of leukemia, lymphoma, and related types of cancer in hopes that a cure will be found. Denise Rich and her wonderful support team have raised over 16 million dollars for Gabrielle's Angel Foundation which funds scientists working diligently around the clock to discover a breakthrough. At a very young and beautiful age Denise's daughter was stricken with this dreadful disease, and since then Denise has been committed and dedicated to finding a cure. Every year in New York city there is an event called "The Angel Ball". The Angel Ball was created in memory of Gabrielle Rich Aouad to benefit Gabrielle's Angel Foundation for cancer research. This year's Gala chairperson was Michele Rella, (life long friend of Denise Rich) and several hundred guests attended to show their support for this very significant cause. Dr. Khalid Bin Jabor Al-Thani (founder of the Qatar National Cancer Society) was also honored with very high regards.

October 20, 2011

Andre Agassi and Irene Michaels   The spotlights beamed down on the crystal blue tennis court which became the center of attention Thursday night at the United Center as four tennis greats challenged each other - having combined decades of experience, talent, and a never ending drive to become number 1 in the world of tennis. The "PowerShares QQQ Challenge" showcased the tennis expertise of Andre Agassi, John McEnroe, Jim Courier, and Todd Martin (Hinsdale native and Northwestern alumni) while thousands of spectators gathered on a rainy, cold, windy Chicago evening .... These 1980's and 90's tennis icons sparked the crowd and once again made the sport come to life as if no time had passed and McEnroe was still breathing fire at the nearest line judge (like a scene out of the early 80's.)

October 21, 2011

Producer and Civic Leader Michael Butler & President of FOC Reute Butler   Lions, tigers, and giraffes were all in good hands Friday night as 300 supporters mingled at the glamorous 25th Anniversary of the Friends of Conservation Ball, a high profile event directed by Reute Butler (F.O.C. President) designed to enable the fragile ecosystems of East Africa .... The "Dark Continent" was on everybody's mind as the fabulous party got underway at the Fairmont Hotel and a baby tiger was on hand as a precious example of the wildlife the Conservation Ball attempts to save and support ....the Gala co-chairs were Holly Rothschild, Wendy Sherman, Jessica Swift, Rachael Phillippe and Joan Wegner.

October 1, 2011

Irene Michaels   Chicago's polo history which is steeped in tradition dating back to June of 1876 was re-ignited at the inaugural beach polo tournament at North Ave. beach. Breathtaking was the view of Lake Michigan's sandy shores as the sand was flying, the horses were cantering, vodka was flowing and the warm rays of the sun were shining down brightly on Lake Michigan. Such was the scene as the much anticipated Grey Goose Chicago Beach Polo World Cup tournament that began on Saturday, Oct. 1st and Sunday, Oct. 2nd. Local spectators relished the opportunity to witness the beach polo event and see players from around the world participated in this prestigious tourney of beach polo. A miniature size (100 yards x 50 yards) of the regular polo field was set up on the beach with skyscrapers and crashing waves becoming the backdrop for this unique sporting event. The two day international tournament hosted a group of eight teams, with four teams competing in World Cup play and four women's teams playing for the North Beach Women's Polo Cup. Other attractions included V.I.P. suites, a fashion show by Factor, and tents for socializing...

September 18th, 2011

Irene Michaels   The sport of kings in all it's reigning glory returned to Bridgehampton, N.Y. from Aug. 28th - Sept. 4th for the 36th annual Hampton Classic Horse Show. Highlighting the event was the $250,000 FTI Grand Prix and FEI World Cup Qualifier on the last day, Sept. 4th. The Classic is the ultimate example of a world-class show jumping competition with some of the world's best riders and horses pursuing their dreams of winning a prized national title. An unexpected surprise this year was the Long Island Horse Show series for Riders with Disabilities who made an appearance on the same day as the $250,000 FTI Grand Prix and FEI World Cup Qualifier. Because of Hurricane Irene, this particular entertaining series took place on the final day of the Hampton Classic instead of the usual

September 16, 2011

Irene Michaels and Oscar de la Renta   Like a Christmas tree in "Miracle on 34th Street", New York city shops lit up, opened their doors, and started pouring the champagne on Thursday to officially start Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Fashionistas from around the country flocked to New York city to celebrate Fashion Week, which spotlights such popular names as Tommy Hilfiger, Vera Wang, Valentino, Oscar de la Renta, Ralph Lauren, Dennis Basso, Nicole Miller, Betsey Johnson, Carolina Herrera and many more. The style capital of the world shimmered from Sept. 8th to 15th, with Lincoln Center being the epicenter of activities. Thursday evening festivities exploded on opening night with parties in almost every shop on Madison Ave. Making their debut in Lincoln Center were an impressive number of new designers including Candela, Emerson, Falguni Peacock, and Pink Tartan.

August 31, 2011

The "Capitale" on Bowery St. was the site for New York city's glamorous, elite jet set who rolled out the red carpet Wednesday night August 30th for Kim and Kris with a glittering social spectacular orchestrated by none other than Jason Binn and Colin Cowie. A magical evening came to life in a color scheme of black, white, and chartreuse. Over 2,000 fans were charmed in a decor described as modern, sexy, and chic complete with a very talented, scantily clad female playing the violin. The spotlight shined on Kim and Kris, who were the guests of honor for this extraordinary celebration and were treated as Royalty for this sparkling event. More gorgeous in person than on film, Kris was friendly, approachable, and sincere; whereas her significant other appeared to be tall, handsome, yet very shy and somewhat reclusive.

August 26, 2011

Larry King and Sugar Rautbord   One of Chicago's leading women, Sugar Rautbord hosted a very special book signing in her elegant Gold Coast condo for the King himself, Larry King. Over 200 guests showed up to greet Larry and spend a few minutes with him talking about his new book Larry King ( Truth be Told ). I'm anxious to read it.

August 19, 2011

Martin Sheen   The red carpet outside the AMC theatre sparkled with a blizzard of flashbulbs that blinded the screaming crowd as the shiny black, ebony colored limousine transporting Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez pulled up to a crowded curb packed with fans filled with anticipation at the arrival of this Hollywood legend and his son. The AMC River East 21 movie theatre was the site of the 47th Chicago International Film Festival Summer Gala on Friday, August 19th. So significant was this event that Governor Quinn proclaimed Aug. 19th "Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez Day" throughout the state of Illinois .

August 7, 2011

"MUSIC IN THE AIR" lived up to its name and reputation at Richard Driehaus' spectacular social summer party took place on Sat., July 30th. Hundreds gathered at his classic country estate in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin for this annual celebration under an azure blue summer sky. Celebrity look-alikes mingled with the crowd who feasted on signature summer picnic items such as hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, sumptuous vegetarian dishes, etc. at the many tents set up across the plush green acres. Adding to the ambiance were classic automobiles from the 1940's, 50's, and 60's which were on display like Picassos on wheels.

June 27, 2011

The long awaited "Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark" finally premiered on Broadway Tuesday night (June 14th) before a star-studded audience that included severable notable Chicagoans and Bono and the Edge (from U-2) who provided Spider-Man's music and lyrics. This stage creation was a visual spectacular with colorful characters flying in all directions panoramically around and above the captive audience from start to finish. Although Spider-Man started off slowly with 180 preview performances, this ultra-expensive musical proved itself to be very entertaining and captured my attention from the moment the curtain was raised.

Making a Dent for Charity

June 6, 2011

The excitement in the air was evident as soon as you arrived at Carnivale restaurant where the celebration for Richard Dent, a Chicago Bears champion, two time Super Bowl winner, Super Bowl XX MVP and Class of 2011 Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee was about to begin. The evening was a fundraiser for The Make a Dent Foundation, started over fourteen years ago by Richard Dent.

As guests waited, they sipped on mojitos and sangrias before making their way into the main room with its expansive buffet spread filled with skirt steak, spicy shrimp and Spanish chorizo sausage skewers, empanadas and other selections.

Flamboyant Artist Brings Masterpieces to The River East Art Center in Chicago

By Irene Michaels
May 24, 2011

Matt Lamb, an internationally recognized artist in generous collaboration with Mr. Juan Javier Bofill presented to the city of Chicago, The Museum of Private Collections featuring the Work of Dali and Lamb. Over 600 pieces by famed Spanish artist Salvador Dali and paintings, sculptures, and tapestries by contemporary Irish-American artist Matt Lamb were on view.

Throughout this exciting week many dignitaries from all around the world showed up for this inspiring event.

O What a Night!

By Irene Michaels
May 20, 2011

It took me a few days to put into words the truly unforgettable experience I had on May 17th. I was privileged to share in TV history and this most memorable occasion all paying tribute to the talk show queen, Oprah Winfrey. I On The Scene was there for the rehearsals, live taping and after party bringing you up close to all the action.

Chicago's United Center was filled with entertainment's elite for Oprah's surprise farewell spectacular. Speculation of who would be in attendance was the talk of the town for days, but Oprah's team remained tight-lipped in order to create one of the biggest surprises for the talk show legend while taping her final shows.

Quinton de' Alexander's Gem Collection

By Irene Michaels
April 18, 2011

Hi Friends and Readers,

Please come to the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at The Palm Court in the Drake Hotel and witness the unveiling of the "Gem Collection" of famous Designer Quinton de' Alexander!

See you there,

Irene

Chicago Celebrates Benjamin Marshall

By Irene Michaels
March 14, 2011

Oh what a night! The Benjamin Marshall Society held an outstanding gala at the Drake Hotel to honor the visions of the beloved and brilliant Benjamin Marshall. This historic architect presented Chicago with some of the most famous buildings in the city. Some of his dramatic and landmark buildings include the Drake Hotel, the Blackstone Hotel, the South Shore Cultural Center, 1550 North State Parkway, and 999 North Lake Shore Drive.

THE 83RD ACADEMY AWARDS.
A MAGICAL MEMORY.

By Irene Michaels
March 6, 2011

Hi Friends,

I am sure you have seen many articles written on the stars and fashion surrounding this year's Academy Awards. I have chosen to highlight a personal experience with the talented and award winning Best Actor Colin Firth, a man with a very inviting smile and kind demure.

THE OSCARS - A SUN TIMES ARTICLE

By Stella Foster
March 1, 2011

I'm part of this Sun Times Article about the Oscars.

Enjoy the article!

GOLDEN GLOBES AFTER PARTIES

By Irene Michaels
January 20, 2011

Another year another party, or should I say parties. This year's Golden Globes after parties were pretty interesting with all the scuttle going on about Ricky Gervais's gritty hosting. Amazingly I sat and watched one star after another come up and talk with him and express to him how great they thought the show went.

I was somewhat astonished since there was so much shoddy press on his deliverance, but not according to the celeb's. I personally dislike any negative energy on stage or off. As the night went on I did approach Gervais and was able to have a few words with him, and actually found him very pleasant in spite of himself

Twenty Second Annual
PALM SPRINGS FILM FESTIVAL

By Irene Michaels
January 13, 2011

The Palm Springs Film Festival is one of largest film festivals in North America.

For two full weeks Palm Springs will be in the cinematic spotlight. The glamour and aura of this event attracts a great deal of press around the world.

HOLIDAYS IN ASPEN

By Irene Michaels
January 3, 2011

I have been to Aspen many times, and it still remains one of my favorite places in the world. Skiing is my second passion, and as most of you know riding, is my first.

There are always plenty of parties and "beautiful" people to watch in Aspen. I attended two such events during my stay.

Happy & Healthy Holidays to Everyone
May you be blessed with
Peace and Happiness
throughout the year and always.
Each of you are a shinning star!
        Irene Michaels

Please Visit chicagonow.com/ionthescene
for reflections of 2010.

Mayor Richard Daley's Monster Mash

By Irene Michaels
November 8, 2010

The 10th Annual Halloween Ball was hosted by Mayor Richard Daley & his wife Maggie Daley at the Chicago Cultural Center. The Center is one of Chicago's famous landmark buildings in the city. The decorations for Halloween were outstanding this year with an array of pumpkins, spider webs, gargoyles, haystacks, skeletons, spooky witches and a mixture of black and blue scary lighting. Over 500 guests attended the mayor's favorite holiday party, and most opted for costumes instead of black tie.

1ST TIME EVER IN THE U.S.
WORLD EQUESTRIAN GAMES

By Irene Michaels
October 25, 2010

Hi Readers

My Kentucky Experience

I invite all of you to view the short story
and video on the WORLD EQUESTRIAN GAMES

Irene Michaels

My Most Magical Evenings this Summer

By Irene Michaels
September 14, 2010

Dear Readers and friends

As fall approaches, I look back on some of the beautiful summer events I have been to, and would like to share them.

Enjoy!

Meet Makeup Artist and Entrepreneur Janine Greff

By Irene Michaels
July 21, 2010

Hi Friends and Readers,

Over the last year many of you have asked about make-up glamour and beauty tips. Therefore, I thought it would be enjoyable to introduce all of you to beauty and make-up consultant Janine Greff.

Good Summer to all of you,
-Irene

JUST FOR LAUGHS - A VERY FUNNY FESTIVAL

By Irene Michaels
June 30, 2010

The entire week in Chicago was devoted to laughter with the comedy festival in town. The Vic, Park West, Second City, Chicago Theater, Mayne Stage Theater and the Rosemont Theater all took part in some of the funniest shows I have seen. The talent ranged from Ellen DeGeneres to Mike Ditka ( if you can believe that ) George Wendt, Tim Kazurinsky, Russell Peters, Aziz Ansari, Bob Odenkirk, Cedric The Entertainer, Edi Patterson, Joe Mantegna, and Denis Leary were just a few of the great performers that appeared in the Comedy Festival.

You've Come A Long Way Baby!
The 46th Chicago International Film Festival

By Irene Michaels
June 20, 2010

Hi Readers, Hope everyone is having a wonderful and playful summer. I'd like to share with you the 46th Chicago International Film Festival...

Chicago was beaming as Ron Howard stepped on stage at the Museum of Science and Industry to receive his Career Achievement award before a crowd of over 400 people. His gracious and humble style made the evening even more enjoyable and out of the ordinary.

GLITZ -N- GLAMOR
of the KENTUCKY DERBY and more

By Irene Michaels
May 4, 2010

The rain didn't stop the fans from coming out and watching the world's most recognized sporting event. The Kentucky Derby. The day is a nonstop parade of sensations, fun, fashion and spectacular food. Over 157 thousand fans turned out to Churchill Downs. It is a marvelous tradition that will provide memories that will last a life time. Certainly for me!

The Other Side of Oscar
Beyond the Red Carpet

By Irene Michaels
March 14, 2010

Before attending the biggest event in Hollywood, "The Oscars" I had an opportunity to attend an earlier function at the Beverly Hills Hotel called "The Night of 100 Stars." It was amazing to see so many celebrities that I haven't seen in sometime, walking down the carpet, but not the red one. It was intriguing to see the impact these stars have after all these years.

It made me enthusiastic about writing something different than the typical stories revolving around the Oscars.

67th Annual Golden Globe Awards

By Irene Michaels
January 22, 2010

Sparkling, romantic and fashion was my take of what was happening on the red carpet this year. Unlike last years recession conscious styles. It was refreshing to witness how many stars took the time to talk with their fans and take pictures in spite of all the rain drops and spongy red carpet.

There were several surprises at the Globes this year. Sandra Bullock was one of them with her award for "The Blind Side" and Jeff Bridges was the other for his role in "Crazy Heart". The audience gave him a standing ovation. Recognition that was way overdue for both.

Palm Springs Film Festival

By Irene Michaels
January 13, 2010

What an outstanding honoree list this year. If only the legendary Sonny Bono and former Mayor of Palm Springs could be here to see what his vision has become.

Presenting sponsor again this year, Cartier added elegance and panache to the red carpet.

"Entertainment Tonight's" Mary Hart, the longest-running anchor of entertainment news once again hosted the show.

A Special Place

By Irene Michaels
January 1, 2010

Hi Friends and Readers,
Hope this pretty scenery brightens your winter days.

There is a beautiful community outside of Chicago called "Wayne". It is known as horse country. If you were to take a ride there, you would think you were in Ireland or England with beautiful landscapes, white fences and wonderful old homes.

Doctor to the Stars

By Irene Michaels
December 18, 2009

What kind of doctor has an agent in New York to negotiate his assignments with his celebrity patients?

Well, a doctor right here in Chicago, who might come in contact - literally -- with more famous people each year than anyone in the industry. Chiropractor physician, Dr James Stoxen DC has become the in-demand backstage doctor when major touring acts hit Chicago. It means he spends a lot of late nights with a lot of famous people.

David Foster "Hit Man"

By Irene Michaels
December 17, 2009

The man behind the recording legends in the music industry! The Beatles, Bee Gees, Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, Celine Dion, Mariah Carey, Shania Twain and many others.

David Foster, a Canadian musician, producer, arranger and great song writer has been in the industry for over 3 decades. His songs always become hits around the world thus many people call him "The Hit Man".

He has received 15 Grammy Awards and has written hundreds of songs for the stars.

The Addams Family in Chicago

By Irene Michaels
December 16, 2009

Although it was a very snowy and cold evening in Chicago, every seat was filled in the Oriental Theatre to see the Premier of the $17 million dollar new musical "THE ADDAMS FAMILY". The play was based on the bizarre and beloved family of the characters created by legendary cartoonists Charles Addams. Two time TONY winners Nathan Lane and Bebe Neuwirth starred in the humorous musical.

Up and Coming Designer Horacio Nieto

By Irene Michaels
December 15, 2009

This young designer rapidly is making his mark in the fashion industry. He was chosen as one of this years participants for the AOL LATINO FASHIONISTIC DESIGN COMPETITION, he made it to the top 3 and was chosen the winner. He already has received a great deal of national press for his achievements. A native Texan, Horacio moved to Chicago where he attended a private school to master his fashion design. His specialty is pattern making, draping, leather construction and corsetry. He won several awards while attending school winner the General Motors Design Competition or two years in a row. His design philosophy is designing cloths with a combination of strength, fluidity and sex appeal.

45th International Film Festival

By Irene Michaels
October 19, 2009

It is hard to believe that it has been 45 years since Chicago's Michael Kutza put on his first film festival. At that time, there was not even a red carpet. The Chicago International Film Festival has grown to become the longest-running competitive film festival in North America. Some of the biggest names in the business now come every year. "I love the thrill - the thrill of discovering something new and sharing my pride with this city I love. Here's to the next 45," Kutza said.

Mercedez Benz Fashion Week

By Irene Michaels
September 18, 2009

From the moment you walk into the tents at Bryant Park in New York City for Fashion Week, to the time the last bow takes place, excitement fills the air! Before the shows began, I had the opportunity to step back stage and speak with one of the top models in the Max Azria Show. She could not be happier, as she was one of the select few chosen for the show.

34th Annual Hampton's Classic Horse Show

By Irene Michaels
September 14, 2009

This is one of the largest and most spectacular and respected hunter/jumper horse shows in the country. This extravagant and social event takes place in Bridgehampton, New York with over a half of million dollars in prize money, 50,000 spectators and 1,400 horses.

Driehaus Lights Up Lake Geneva

By Irene Michaels
July 30, 2009

Richard Driehaus, Philanthropist and business leader had his annual birthday bash in Lake Geneva Wisconsin on Saturday night The theme this year was about love, peace and happiness. Reminiscent of the year 1967.

Cavalia
Largest Touring Show Under the Big Top in North America

By Irene Michaels
July 13, 2009

Right here in Chicago's own back yard in the West Loop is a spectacular combination of horses, acrobats, aerialists, dancers and riders all performing under the Big Tent. One of the most lavish and breathtaking shows I have seen in a long time. Exciting, dramatic, whimsical and sexy are only a few adjectives to describe this Cirque du Soleil style show of horses.

Styx Rocks for Chicagoans at Northerly Island

By Irene Michaels
July 10, 2009

Synonymous with Chicago, Styx was jamming away for Chicagoans, on what could not have been a better night for a rock concert! I ON THE SCENE was there to cover that event and had the opportunity to interview James Young or JY as he is commonly known. We also interviewed Styx Manager, Charlie Brusco and asked him about his career.

"Public Enemies" Welcomed by Chicago

By Irene Michaels
June 18, 2009

It was quite a scene outside the AMC River East Theater last Thursday. Hundreds of fans stood by to await the arrival of Johnny Depp and Christian Bale for the opening Premier of "Public Enemies".

Depp commented earlier in the year that he wouldn't attend a premier for the movie, unless the first one was in Chicago. He loves Chicago, and it's people.

Star Power on Broadway for the Tonys

By Irene Michaels
June 8, 2009

This year's Tonys did not lack in star power! Jane Fonda ( who was nominated for her lead role in the play "33 Variations"), James Gandolfini ( HBO's Tony Soprano ) nominated for best actor for "God of Carnage", Liza Minnelli, for "Liza's at the Palace", a one women show, Marcia Gay Harden ( nominated for best actress "God of Carnage") Geoffrey Rush, ( nominated for best actor ) "Exit the King" Angela Lansbury ( featured actress ) "Blithe Spirit". Kristin Chenoweth, Edie Falco, Will Ferrell, Nicole Kidman, Anna Hathaway, Jessica Lange, David Hyde Pierce, Susan Sarandon, Kevin Spacey, Dolly Parton, Elton John, Stockard Channing and more.

Dolly Parton - Larger Than Life on Broadway

By Irene Michaels
May 5, 2009

Recently, I had a chance to spend some quality time with this legendary performer. The singer, composer, actress and music publisher has come a LONG way from her dirt-poor roots. One of 12 kids, she lived for a time in a house without plumbing or electricity.

Barber to the Stars Arthur Rubinoff had a launch party to promote his new "Signature" grooming products.

By Irene Michaels
April 2, 2009

This Tuesday night in New York Michael Imperioli with his band La Dolce Vita rocked the night club Touch. He helped promote the New "Signature" grooming products of Reamiir & Co.

Fat Tuesday Spectacular in Chicago

By Irene Michaels
March 29, 2009

On Febrary 24th, which is Fat Tuesday, Chicago celebrated Mardi Gras like never before at the beautiful Fairmont Hotel.
The event supported the Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago and all their good works on behalf of people who suffer this debilitating condition. And everyone was there!

A Beastly Encounter

By Irene Michaels
March 24, 2009

While visiting the set of THE BEAST, I had a chat with executive producer Steven Pearl. His enthusiasm for the show was positively contagious and for good reason. The Beast has become a huge success. Soft spoken Pearl, who looks so much like Gary Sinese, talked to me about the show.

The Oscars!
De-Glitzing the Biggest Night in Hollywood

By Irene Michaels
March 1, 2009

While the nation is engulfed in an economic crisis and Hollywood is enduring painful layoffs and cutbacks, the theme this year was, have a party but not too WOW, be sensitive to what's going on in the world while we celebrate the Oscar nominees. Although there were parties aplenty, it is worthy to note that Parmount, Warner Bros, and Hollywood's quintessential Oscar party guy Ed Lamato held no celebrations at all.

I On The Scene Goes to the 51st Grammy Awards

By Irene Michaels
February 12, 2009

Glamour, Glitter, Winners, Losers, all ingredients of the best night in Music....Here's my take on the evening.

Inauguration Day: The Five Hours and Beyond

By Irene Michaels
January 20, 2009

2009 Golden Globe Awards

By Irene Michaels
January 15, 2009

One of the winners that stuck out in my mind at the Golden Globes was Mickey Rourke. He intrigued me. Mickey derives his inspiration from the past, yet he blames his tortured past on his step-dad.

Film Lovers Flock to Palm Springs

By Irene Michaels
January 3, 2009

They were all there at the 20th Palm Springs Festival--Dustin Hoffman, James Cronwell, Leonardo Di Caprio, Sean Penn, Josh Brolin, Donald Sutherland--Hollywood's best and brightest stars, all striding down the Red Carpet.

Hilton for the Holidays

By Irene Michaels
January 1, 2009

Over Christmas, I again made the trek to the Little Nell Hotel--a favorite celebrity hangout in Aspen, particularly during the holidays. Happy to have a pleasant, low key Christmas evening, Paris Hilton and I sat down by the fire to catch up. Paris' home in LA is quite lovely and whimsical.