Lineup Announced For Illinois’ 200th Birthday Party

Illinois celebrates 200 years with a huge Bicentennial Birthday Party at the United Center on December 3rd.

The program for the 200th Birthday Party features six acts that highlight the people, places, events and innovations that were Born, Built and Grown in Illinois.

Among the most anticipated acts is a tribute to the state’s greatest citizen, Abraham Lincoln, that includes a special musical rendition of the Gettysburg Address starring Miguel Cervantes, who plays Alexander Hamilton in Chicago. Broadway In Chicago along with Musical Director Michael Keefe and Broadway In Bronzeville have created this musical adaptation that will be performed along with Broadway In Chicago’s Illinois High School Musical Award-winning students from across the state.

REO Speedwagon, recently voted Illinois’ top musical group in a recent statewide bicentennial survey, will rock the United Center as part of the tribute to Illinois entertainment.

For the sports segment of the show, the United Center will be transformed into a parade of Olympic Champions, championship team owners, legends, trophies and celebrity fans who will recreate celebrations of Illinois’ greatest sports moments. The Bears, Blackhawks, Bulls, Cubs and White Sox will be well represented.

Something really cool for Rockford will be The Rockford Peaches being recognized on the 75th anniversary of their first All-American Girls Professional Baseball League championship.

Legendary Blackhawks anthem singer Jim Cornelison will do the honors to open the party.

Previously confirmed to participate are members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Styx, Blues legend Buddy Guy, Olympic champion Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Bill Kurtis and Joe Mantegna.

Tickets are $75 and $50 and are on sale through Ticketmaster and at the United Center box office.

For more information about Illinois' bicentennial and related celebrations and activities, click here.