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Get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating world of live theater as Chicago's stages come alive with an incredible lineup of must-see shows this summer. From the electrifying pop musical "Six" to the timeless romance of "Romeo & Juliet," and the nostalgic charm of "Back to the Future: The Musical," the Windy City is set to become a hub of theatrical excellence. With a diverse array of productions that span across genres, styles, and eras, there's something for every theater enthusiast to enjoy. So, mark your calendars and prepare to be transported to new worlds, moved by powerful performances, and inspired by the magic of live storytelling.
Below is a list of just some of the great shows coming to Chicago this summer:
Six at Nederlander Theatre
June 4 - July 14, 2024Prepare to be dazzled by the electrifying musical sensation, SIX, as the queens of Henry VIII take center stage to reclaim their narratives and showcase their incredible talents. This powerhouse all-woman cast, accompanied by the fierce "Ladies in Waiting" band, will have you dancing in your seat as they seamlessly blend five centuries of historical heartbreak with the pulsating beats of modern pop. Get ready for an unforgettable celebration of female empowerment that has taken the UK by storm and is now ready to conquer Chicago.
The Kite Runner at CIBC Theatre
June 11 - June 23, 2024Embark on a deeply moving journey of redemption and forgiveness with the stage adaptation of Khaled Hosseini's beloved, international best-selling novel, THE KITE RUNNER. This powerful play, masterfully adapted by Matthew Spangler, follows the story of two childhood friends in Afghanistan, whose lives are forever changed by a single, unforeseen incident. Spanning two decades and two continents, THE KITE RUNNER is a testament to the enduring power of friendship, the resilience of the human spirit, and the possibility of finding goodness even in the darkest of times.
Little Bear Ridge Road
Little Bear Ridge Road at Steppenwolf TheatreJune 13 - July 21, 2024
In the remote corners of rural Idaho, an estranged aunt and nephew, the last remnants of the Fernsby family, come together to confront the complicated legacy left behind by a troubled father. As they navigate the challenges of rebuilding their relationship, they grapple with the universal question: how do we connect with others, and is it worth the effort? Little Bear Ridge Road is a poignant exploration of the joys and risks of letting others into our lives, even if only for a fleeting moment.
The Hot Wing King at Writers Theatre
June 20 - July 21, 2024Get ready for a sizzling comedy that's as hot as the wings Cordell, the "Hot Wing King," is famous for! Surrounded by his loving partner Dwayne and his loyal fry crew friends, Cordell is gearing up for Memphis' Annual "Hot Wang Festival." But when Dwayne's troubled nephew unexpectedly arrives seeking shelter, the night takes a chaotic turn. Winner of the 2021 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, The Hot Wing King is a bold and hilarious play that celebrates the courage to be unapologetically yourself, no matter the obstacles.
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil at Goodman Theatre
June 25 - August 4, 2024Step into the captivating world of Savannah, Georgia, where Southern charm and dark secrets intertwine. When wealthy antiques dealer Jim Williams stands accused of murder, the sensational trial unearths hidden truths and exposes the blurred lines between good and evil. Witness as Lady Chablis and other unforgettable Savannahians fight to change their city forever in this mesmerizing new musical adaptation. With the combined talents of MacArthur "Genius" grantee Taylor Mac, Tony Award winners Jason Robert Brown and Rob Ashford, and choreographer Tanya Birl, this true-crime blockbuster comes alive on stage like never before.
Ain't Misbehavin' at Drury Lane- Oakbrook
June 26 - August 18, 2024Get ready to swing and sway to the infectious rhythms of the Harlem Renaissance in this toe-tapping, finger-snapping revue featuring the timeless music of the legendary Fats Waller. Let the soulful crooners of Ain't Misbehavin' transport you to an era where the joint was always jumpin' with electrifying renditions of jazz classics like "Honeysuckle Rose" and "I Can't Give You Anything But Love." This high-energy musical celebration captures the vibrant essence of a truly unforgettable time in history.
Romeo and Juliet at Oak Park Festival Theatre
Romeo & Juliet at Oak Park Festival TheatreJuly 5 - August 17, 2024
Witness the timeless tale of star-crossed lovers as the passionate Romeo and spirited Juliet defy their feuding families to follow their hearts. In William Shakespeare's iconic story of love at first sight, the young couple's whirlwind romance is punctuated by action, swordplay, and some of the Bard's most unforgettable language. As the convictions of youth clash with the unyielding demands of their elders, Romeo & Juliet explores the inevitability of tragic consequences when love and duty collide.
Savor After Hours at Broadway Playhouse
Savor After Hours at Broadway PlayhouseJuly 9 - August 18, 2024
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of SAVOR After Hours, an intimate and sensory experience that seamlessly blends dance, passion, and the art of living in the moment. Praised by Broadway World as "Sensory Perfection," this show features flawless choreography and high-energy performances that will leave you breathless. Prepare to be transported as SAVOR After Hours invites you to indulge in the sheer joy of movement and human connection.
Million Dollar Quartet at Metropolis Performing Arts Centre
July 11 - August 17, 2024Travel back in time to December 4, 1956, when four legendary musicians - Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins - gathered for an unforgettable night of music that would make history. This Tony Award-nominated musical takes you inside one of the greatest rock 'n' roll jam sessions ever recorded, as these iconic artists pour their hearts into more than 20 chart-topping hits like "Blue Suede Shoes," "Great Balls of Fire," "I Walk the Line," and "Who Do You Love." Hailed as "dazzling" by New York Magazine and "wildly entertaining" by Hollywood Reporter, Million Dollar Quartet is a nostalgic and electrifying journey through the golden age of rock 'n' roll.
The Lord of the Rings - A Musical Tale at Chicago Shakespeare Theater
July 19 - September 1Embark on an epic adventure through the enchanting world of Middle-earth in this musical adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's beloved novels, which have captivated generations of readers and inspired the Academy Award-winning film trilogy by Peter Jackson. As Bilbo Baggins celebrates his eleventy-first birthday in the Shire, he passes on his most precious possession - a gold ring - to his nephew Frodo, unknowingly setting in motion a perilous quest to vanquish evil in the darkest realms of Mordor. Join Frodo and his loyal Fellowship on this legendary journey that will transport you to the heart of Middle-earth like never before.
Peter and the Starcatcher at Paramount Theatre
July 24 - September 1Discover the magical origins of Peter Pan in this whimsical prequel that follows a young orphan's journey aboard the Neverland-bound ship, the Wasp. Despite the harsh realities of the Victorian age and the grim industrial practices he faces, Peter's infectious enthusiasm and unwavering spirit inspire every young person he encounters (and the audience too) to embrace their inner child and join him on this timeless adventure. Peter and the Starcatcher is a heartwarming tale that reminds us of the importance of never losing our sense of wonder and the power of imagination to transform our world.
Back to the Future: The Musical at Cadillac Palace Theatre
August 13 - September 1Get ready to travel through time with Marty McFly, a rock 'n' roll teenager who accidentally finds himself transported back to 1955 in a time-traveling DeLorean invented by his eccentric friend, Dr. Emmett Brown. As Marty navigates the past and tries to ensure his own existence by playing matchmaker for his high school-aged parents, he must also find a way to return to 1985. Back to the Future: The Musical brings the beloved film to life on stage, combining nostalgic charm, thrilling adventure, and an unforgettable score that will have you singing along to your favorite hits from the '50s and '80s.
As the curtain rises on this extraordinary summer season, Chicago's vibrant theater scene promises to captivate audiences with its unparalleled talent, creativity, and passion. Whether you're a long-time Chicago theater aficionado or a curious newcomer, this is the perfect opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of stories, emotions, and ideas that live theater has to offer. From the intimate stages of local theaters to the grand prosceniums of iconic venues, the city's stages will be buzzing with energy and excitement. So, gather your friends and family, secure your tickets, and get ready to embark on a thrilling journey through the world of Chicago theater. This summer, let Chicago's stages ignite your imagination, stir your soul, and create memories that will last a lifetime.