Northlight Theatre

Artistic Director BJ Jones and Executive Director Timothy J. Evans have announced the 2009-2010 Northlight Theatre Season, which includes Roger Bean's pop musical, The Marvelous Wonderettes; Stephen Temperley's comedic musical tribute, Souvenir directed by David Bell; Clifford Odets' Depression-era classic Awake and Sing directed by Amy Morton and featuring Rondi Reed and Mike Nussbaum; Hugh Leonard's Irish drama, A Life directed by BJ Jones, starring John Mahoney; and another production to be announced.

"A 35th Anniversary in the life of a theatre is a rare and exceptional thing, a celebration of artistry and integrity. But the lifeblood of a theatre exits on both sides of the footlights. It is our audience's loyalty and passion for our work that has kept Northlight thriving for three and a half decades," says BJ Jones. "To acknowledge their collaboration and in celebration of all these extraordinary years, we are inviting some of our dearest friends and some of our newest friends to bring their world class artistry to Northlight's stage.  John Mahoney, Mike Nussbaum, Rondi Reed, Amy Morton, and David Bell are just some of the stars of Chicago theatre who will remind us all why Northlight Theatre has been such a special place for 35 years."

The 2009-2010 Northlight Season Includes:

The Marvelous Wonderettes
Written and directed by Roger Bean
September 17 - October 25, 2009

When the entertainment doesn't show up for the Class of 1958 prom, The Wonderettes step in to save the day.  Between belting out 50's and 60's favorites like "It's My Party," "Mr. Sandman" and "Dream Lover," the girls trade gossip about high school hijinks and teenage romance.  Your toes will be tapping throughout this nostalgic pop musical, coming straight to Northlight as one of this season's biggest off-Broadway hits!

Souvenir
Written by Stephen Temperley
Directed by David Bell
November 12 - December 20, 2009

The comedic and musical true story of Florence Foster-Jenkins: a New York socialite whose tin ear couldn't keep her off the stage at Carnegie Hall.  Seen through the eyes of her beloved accompanist, Souvenir is a touching and comic tribute to Ms. Jenkins' sincerity, ambition, deep love of music and complete lack of talent, all of which brought a very unique joy to thousands.

Awake and Sing
Written by Clifford Odets
Directed by Amy Morton

Featuring Tony Award winner Rondi Reed and Mike Nussbaum
January 21 - February 28, 2010

In a cramped Bronx tenement during the Great Depression, a working-class Jewish family copes with financial hardship even as they dream of a brighter future.  Bessie Berger's fierce determination keeps her family afloat, whatever the cost.  Gritty, passionate, funny and heartbreaking, Odets' 1935 masterpiece (the Tony Award winner for best revival in 2006) beautifully captures both the hopes and the struggles of an unforgettable American family.

A Life
Written by Tony Award winner Hugh Leonard
Directed by BJ Jones
Featuring Tony Award winner John Mahoney
March 18 - April 25, 2010

In the sequel to the late Hugh Leonard's most celebrated work, Da, John Mahoney stars in this evocative play about the evolution of friendships in a small Irish town.  Desmond Drumm nears retirement and his memories come to life, reminding him of the triumphs and tragedies of his youth and prompting him to mend relationships with a childhood friend and the love interest that had charmed them both.  But as scenes from the past shed light on the misunderstandings of today, Desmond must realize that his lifelong ability to use his great intellect and acerbic wit as a means of self-defense has come at a cost.

TBA
May 27 - July 3, 2010

The Northlight artistic team is still working to choose the perfect show to cap off its 2009-10 Season.  Whether a new musical, a rediscovered classic or a fresh new comedy, the 35th Anniversary Season promises to showcase the blend and range of work found only at Northlight.