Denise McGowan Tracy

Denise McGowan Tracy has played a part in Chicago’s entertainment and events community for nearly 40 years with experience on-stage and behind the scenes. With the addition of “author” to her resume, you might say Sondheim accurately described the way she has, “…careered from career to career”. The publication of the 2nd edition of Eleanor’s Very Merry Christmas Wish comes on the heels of the world premiere Eleanor’s Very Merry Christmas Wish – The Musical, based on the original book published in 2015. The 2019 production received immediate critical acclaim and promises to be a new tradition in the world of Holiday programming in Chicago and beyond. The 2nd edition book includes illustrations by the late artist John Michael Downs. Her first memorable “show biz” job found her at Ice Follies/Holiday on Ice starting as the receptionist then touring as Assistant Company Manager seeing the United States from the window of a tour bus. Her return to Chicago brought an offer to manage a new Lettuce Entertain You concept – Byfield’s, an intimate cabaret room in the Ambassador East Hotel. As the manager and House MC McGowan booked and introduced up-and-comers including Ellen Degeneres, Kevin Nealon and Richard Lewis to Chicago. She welcomed home Chicago favorites and recognized names including Mort Sahl and Maureen McGovern graced the stage while celebrities from Tony Bennett to Harry Carey led the cheers during its run from 1981-1987. As Director of Entertainment at Navy Pier – one of the Midwest’s largest tourist attractions McGowan produced public programming including hundreds of performances and events. She founded DMT Entertainment & Events in 2009 creating events – large scale and intimate – for clients including Landmarks Illinois, The Better Government Association, The American Bar Association, Driehaus Design Initiative and The Sarah Siddons Society where she is now a member of the Board of Directors. She returned to Lettuce Entertain You creating the popular “Monday Night Live at Petterino’s” currently on hiatus due to Covid 19 after over 500 performances. As the Master of Ceremonies she has introduced over 700 different singers from the worlds of musical theater, cabaret, jazz, opera and pop – all accompanied by co-host Beckie Menzie. She is married to Ed Tracy the creator of “Conversations with Ed Tracy” and “Pickinsix” a reviewing platform for theater and live entertainment.