Editor’s Note: In March 2024, David Marienthal, son of London House and Mister Kelly’s co-owner, George Marienthal, joined Alison Hinderliter, a curator of the Newberry Library at The Cliff Dwellers. The subject was a discussion of the Newberry’s just opened “Night at Mister Kelly’s” exhibit and a screening of the new documentary film, “Live at Mr. Kelly’s. ”The legendary Mister Kelly’s, once called a “supernova in the local and national night life firmament,” illuminated Chicago’s legendary Rush Street, and the entire country, by launching talent like Barbra Streisand, Herbie Hancock, Bette Midler, and Richard Pryor. Its visionary owners George and Oscar Marienthal smashed color and gender barriers to put fresh, irreverent voices in the spotlight and transform entertainment in the 50s, 60s, and ’70s. Now, with the club long gone, and its star talent reaching its golden years, George’s son David and director/screenwriter, Ted Bogosian, went on a quest to collect the

memories of the clubs before they are lost. David has had a successful multi-faceted career as architect, restaurateur, and teacher. As Executive Producer of the documentary, David utilized his project management and development expertise to lead all facets of the production and worked closely with the director, editor, and researchers. His passion for creating a compelling story of this historic legacy has been a true labor of love that has made this film a success.

You can relive these old Chicago nightclub days in the full “Live at Mr. Kelly’s” documentary film below. The film features a kaleidoscope of interviews, live footage, photos, music, and song, the most beloved and famous talent of our time at the decisive moments when they first showed up, dug deep, and broke in. How do you change the world with a laugh and a song? Find out in a film that documents the rise and fall of one of American entertainment’s great proving grounds.