Skip Griparis has mastered many aspects of the performing arts. After first studying piano and saxophone as a young boy, he began his professional career in high school as a singer/guitarist in the first of a succession of top-rated pop/rock bands. He also found the time to work as an announcer at WJRC-AM Radio.

Soon Skip released his first album on Mercury Records as a member of Trilogy, a band that set new standards for innovative acoustic rock and opened for such artists as Count Basie and Buddy Rich. Griparis also became a staff writer for United Artists Publishing, where he penned songs that have sold worldwide. Next, he joined MCA recording artists New Colony Six, where he wrote and performed his first jazz compositions. After a two-year stint, he left to sing and play in the Olivia Newton-John band, a position he held for four years. Skip performed with Olivia in a wide range of venues, including the Bu-Do Kan in Tokyo, the Metropolitan Opera House in New York, and on Johnny Carson's Tonight Show.

"A STANDOUT GUITARIST."
Hanford Searl, Billboard Magazine

After his tours with Newton-John ended, Griparis completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theater. His acting has received critical acclaim in everything from professional world-premier productions to classic Shakespeare.

"A MIRACLE OF DELICACY."
Richard Chistiansen, Chicago Tribune

His film appearances include the role of Monte the Colorman in the blockbuster hit movies Major League I and II.

"THE BEST THING ABOUT 'MAJOR LEAGUE II' IS THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BOB UECKER AND SKIP GRIPARIS."
Roger Ebert, Siskel and Ebert

Always looking for a new challenge, Skip combined his sense of humor with his music and acting skills to produce a satiric musical comedy act. He has headlined Dangerfield's in New York, Zanies in Chicago, and the Ice House in Los Angeles. Featured TV appearances include the Showtime Comedy Network and TNN's Nashville Now. A Chicago Tribune poll recognized Griparis as one of the top five comics in the country.

And now, coming full circle, Skip relinquishes the satire and returns to his first love... performing his own music... with a contemporary treasure chest of distinctive, heartfelt and witty songs, Love in Lincoln Park.