Life has been difficult for Jessie and her hope for the future has faded. Spiraling between a failed marriage and caretaker fatigue due to her criminal son and aging mother, Jessie is determined to take control of her life in the only way left to her. When society and technology isolate Jessie, when the world turns to chaos around her and a promised future fades away: Jessie digs up her father's old pistol with the intention to end her life. Marsha Norman's Pulitzer Prize-winning play launches audiences through a mother and daughter's darkest night together.

When Asaf's student asks him to sign a petition condemning police brutality, he wants to do the right thing - until he realizes the manifesto turns out to be broader than he imagined, and every choice feels like betrayal. As the debate roars through his Midwestern campus and his ex-girlfriend takes the lead, Asaf is pulled into a political storm that tests his convictions and his sense of self. Will his fumbling entree into activism help or hurt the cause? Who's side is Asaf - and the audience - really on?

Young author Oliver Adams is on the brink of success, with his novel set to be published and soon to be adapted for the Broadway stage! When he, the famed (and married) playwrights, and his longed-for leading lady all converge for a weekend at a Newport mansion, the housekeeper that would rather they all leave isn't the only thing that goes awry. In a romantic screwball comedy that hearkens back to days gone by, only the power of theatre can save the play, Oliver's novel, and his heart.

Inspired by the simple question, “if this is true, what else is true?”, the ensemble builds an entire universe inside a single location—then chases every twist, turn, and exit. When a character leaves the room, the audience goes with them, uncovering new characters, absurd surprises, and interconnected chaos along the way.

Xochi is dealing with a lot: a difficult pregnancy, a new relationship, a family that can't stand her and the loss of her twin brother Sebastian, who was declared missing last year. As she tries to navigate her life (and keep her sanity), the impossible happens: Sebastian reappears. Her family is overjoyed, but Xochi is suspicious: where has he been? And why does this version of Sebastian seem so different than the one she knew? BOTH is an eerie examination of family, love, memory and which version of the truth is the one worth believing.

Candlelight Concerts in Chicago are intimate live performances where the music and the candlelit atmosphere do equal work—creating a night out that’s elegant, relaxed, and genuinely different. Presented by Fever, the series features local musicians (often a string ensemble) performing programs that range from classical to pop and themed tributes. Browse this guide for candlelight concerts Chicago audiences can attend now and in the coming months.

Part philosophical farce, part surreal fever dream—Witkiewicz’s The Cuttlefish, or the Hyrcanian Worldview is a razor-sharp satire of art under pressure. In a world where creativity is consumed by control and individuality is crushed beneath the weight of conformity, an artist spirals into crisis—torn between integrity and survival, freedom and obedience. Witkiewicz exposes the seductive dance between artist and authority, where every act of creation risks becoming an act of submission. Decades ahead of its time, this anarchic comedy lays bare the modern artist’s impossible choice: stay true to your vision, or surrender it for comfort and applause.

Charlie and Anna are on a date. He asks her to get in a cage, and she says "sure. okay". An examination of degradation, pornography and who we become for one another.

The Dover Road by A.A. Milne is a not-so-subtle dissection of romantic love with hints at the homosocial instinct of English upper-class men. Ghostlight's production brings to the forefront the play's implied observations on sexuality and gender expression that has always existed in society if you knew where to look.

Escape into the glitz and glamour of ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’, the (fictitious) 1928 musical comedy brought to life in Theo’s intimate cabaret space. As a die-hard musical fan drops the needle on his favorite cast album, the show bursts into hilarious chaos—complete with showgirls, gangsters, mistaken identities, and one very tipsy chaperone.

The stage is set in a hidden library with over fifteen thousand books. Five classically trained actors meet as members of "The Drunk Shakespeare Society." One of them has at least 5 shots of whiskey and then they overconfidently attempt to perform a major role in a Shakespearean play. Hilarity and mayhem ensues while the four sober actors try and keep the script on track. Every show is different depending on who is drinking ... and what they're drinking!

Sven Svensen and Ole Olsen have been best buds since kindergarten, but all that changes on the morning of Ole's ice-fishing bachelor party. Could they be something more than friends, or is Sven destined for something even more wild and strange. This fantasia on Midwestern masculinity invites us to consider the limits of Queerness. Dream ballet included.

Fade tells the story of Lucia, a Mexican-born novelist navigating life as a "diversity hire" TV writer in a white, male-dominated Hollywood. When she forms a complicated friendship with Abel, the American-born Mexican janitor in her building, shared heritage collides with ambition, class, and identity. Will it unite them-or pull them apart?

Father of the Bride is the classic comedy that has touched our hearts for decades. Based on the novel that inspired the Elizabeth Taylor and Steve Martin films, this hilarious yet bittersweet play reminds us that sometimes the greatest love a father can give to his daughter is to let her go.

Fault is a wickedly dark comedy, full of blistering humor and searing revelations. All's fair in love and marital warfare as Lucy and Jerry Green go head-to-head after 30 years of marriage in a late-night tangle of lies, ambition, and betrayal. Fault makes the case that being honest with ourselves might just be the trickiest game we play in life and love... but whose fault is that anyways?

Rediscover the soundtrack of a lifetime with GOING BACHARACH, a vibrant new revue celebrating the legacy of one of America’s most iconic composers. Straight from its critically acclaimed hit run Off-Broadway, GOING BACHARACH comes to Chicago with three powerhouse vocalists and a five-piece band who take audiences on a melodic journey through the timeless songs spanning Bacharach’s extraordinary career.

This musical is JUST RIGHT! This show is based on the classic story of a young girl who ventures into the woods and stumbles on a cute house with 3 bowls of porridge, 3 chairs, and 3 beds. All CKC shows feature plenty of audience participation and run for one hour with no intermission.

This musical based on Margaret Wise Brown’s beloved children’s book is drenched in primary colors that pay homage to Clement Hurd’s vivid illustrations in an all-new, immersive setting. Catchy songs, delightful dancing, a technicolor set, the quiet poetry of the original tale, and the humorous antics of one very nocturnal bunny all play a part in this fun, family-friendly celebration of one of the most iconic children’s books of all time.

THE GREAT GATSBY is a "Broadway extravaganza that explodes with life and energy" (Entertainment Weekly). Based on the classic American novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald, the Tony Award-winning new musical is an unforgettable journey of love, wealth and tragedy that brings the Roaring Twenties to life on stage.

HAMILTON is a revolutionary piece of theatre, with a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway. Written by Lin-Manuel Miranda and directed by Thomas Kail, with choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler and musical supervision and orchestrations from Alex Lacamoire, it tells the story of America's founding father Alexander Hamilton. It has received numerous awards and accolades, including Tony, Grammy and Olivier Awards, the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, as well as a special citation from the Kennedy Center Honors. Drawing from Ron Chernow's acclaimed biography, HAMILTON is now seen by audiences around the world as an essential representation of America then, told by America now.

His singular name still evokes immediate recognition from people all over the world. This official Elvis Presley bio-musical takes a closer look at the rock star and incomparable icon whose impact shaped the history of music and culture.

Andrew Rally has it all: TV fame, a glamorous girlfriend, a devoted agent, the perfect New York apartment and the chance to play Hamlet in Central Park. There's just one problem-he hates Hamlet. When his agent recalls a romance with legendary actor John Barrymore in Andrew's very apartment, a seance summons Barrymore's ghost. From that moment on, Andrew's life is no longer his own. Things spiral into hilarious chaos as he battles with self-doubt, Shakespeare, his own sword and a swashbuckling specter determined to push him toward greatness.

The Second City’s Improv Supernova blasts open e.t.c.’s 50th Revue with the art form that started it all. No two performances are ever the same – every night is different, delightfully chaotic, and always funny. Improv this good turns an ordinary night into an unforgettable one. Don’t miss out.

Originally premiering at Black Ensemble Theater in 2000, this outstanding production began a highly successful national tour in 2002, including a record-breaking run at the legendary Apollo Theater in New York. In 2012, The Jackie Wilson Story made history once again by opening the new Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center.

Jane, an employee at a big tech company, has been placed on leave after video of her screaming breakdown at work went viral. Her employers tell Jane she must be evaluated by crisis therapist Loyd before she can be reinstated to the job that gives her life meaning. Their first session together, however, quickly escalates into an epic showdown with a shocking and disturbing twist. A Broadway and Off-Broadway sensation, this intense psychological thriller skewers the insidiousness of the internet, the meaning of work and the ramifications of a secret revealed.

Welcome to the greatest rock 'n' roll show not on Earth! LOKI arrives at Asgard, bringing chaos, comedy, and three monstrous (maybe) children. LOKI tangles with Odin, Thor, and the mysterious Freya; each with their own agenda; their own secrets-but all paths lead to one eternal question: In an us vs. them world, can we envision a new mythology? Ensemble member Heather Currie directs this epic musical world premiere from the Jeff award-winning team of Howe and Calvit.

Ma Rainey's band is waiting. It's 1926 Chicago, and "The Mother of the Blues" takes her time getting ready to record. Tensions and temperatures rise as the musicians recount tales of rage, joy, betrayal and faith in astonishing stories and a heart-stopping climax. Chicago legends Chuck Smith and Harry J. Lennix reunite for the play that smashed box office records in its 1997 Goodman premiere for this major revival of "a genuine American masterpiece" (Chicago Reader).

Award-winning, third-generation magician Dennis Watkins delivers an evening of sophisticated tom-foolery in one of the Windy City's most unique entertainment experiences presented by The House Theatre of Chicago. The Magic Parlour is an elegant night out in the heart of downtown. This intimate magic show is replete with mind-blowing magic and mind reading in a small suite at the historic Palmer House Hilton Hotel.

Mickey Lodovico is a celebrated artist with a full workshop, powerful clients, and a life his friends call blessed. He's not so sure. For years he's kept everything in delicate balance — his art, his faith, and his young assistant Thomas, who holds the palette on which Mickey can touch a past he'd rather leave in stone. It works until it doesn't. MARBLED is the story of what's left when the juggling act finally breaks — and what hidden beauty a broken rock might reveal.

Inspired by a true story, the play plunges audiences into the increasingly fractured world of Gail and Ben, where a cough in the bathroom may signal something far more sinister and the boundaries between reality and imagination begin to dissolve. Reuniting Mondi and Gallant, who first collaborated while on faculty together at Dean College in Massachusetts, Maybe Tomorrow is a gripping, meta-theatrical puzzle that explores marriage, perception and the unnerving human need to be seen.

Medieval Times is an exciting, family-friendly dinner attraction inspired by an 11th century feast and tournament. Guests are served a four-course banquet and cheer for one of six knights as they compete in the joust and other tests of skill. Expect lots of jousting, swordsmanship, thrilling hand-to-hand combat, and displays of extraordinary horsemanship as part of an exciting story set in Medieval Spain.

Delight in Shakespeare's glorious comedy! In the middle-class and very English hamlet of Windsor, joyous revelry abounds as the ladies of the town-the ebullient Mistress Page and Mistress Quickly-band together to have the last laugh over the lewd, but loveable, Falstaff. The production is staged by foremost Shakespeare director Phillip Breen, who has quite literally written the book on Merry Wives and leads a Shakespeare Institute seminar entitled "Walking in A Windsor Wonderland: Some Ramshackle Reflections on Directing Shakespeare's Greatest Comedy." Breen's eclectic range of work expands beyond theater to encompass opera, musicals, and cabaret, as well as being a regular collaborator with Vivienne Westwood for London Fashion Week.

Four Legends. One Night. Music History Made. You may have loved Million Dollar Quartet in 2017 at Paramount Theatre - now imagine it set in Sun Studio itself. The new Stolp Island Theatre will be designed to immerse you in the experience so you can say "I was there!" On December 4, 1956, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins had a chance encounter at Sun Studio in Memphis. What transpired ?was one of the greatest impromptu jam sessions in music history.

Emmy and SAG Award winner Brendan Hunt (Ted Lasso’s co-creator/writer/“Coach Beard”) presents his hilarious new one-man show fueled by bittersweet memories of his Chicago childhood, a love for The Beatles that got him through it and the tongue-tied moment he met Paul McCartney. The Movement You Need is a laugh-filled love letter to the family that makes us, the music that shapes us and the crazy shit life throws our way.

Direct from New Zealand comes the joyfully immersive Mrs. Krishnan's Party. Step into the back room of Mrs. Krishnan's corner shop where garlands decorate the ceiling, music flows, and Mrs. Krishnan is throwing a party like no other. Food simmers on the stove, laughter abounds, and strangers become friends in this celebration of life. The actors juggle cooking, music, and guests in an unfolding drama where no two nights are the same. This production marks the Chicago debut of New Zealand's acclaimed Indian Ink Theatre Company, which for more than two decades has mined the collision of East and West to create spirited, artful storytelling.

Dawn has a house, a husband, and a family, but she wants more. She wants her ex-girlfriend, Robin. She wants nothing to change and she wants everything to change, and she wants it all on her own terms. As she's caught between what's been and what's next, Dawn must learn to abandon expectations, harmonize with loved ones, and trust the process. If she can do all that, she might just learn a new song.

A visit from old friends takes an unexpected turn when a bombshell accusation throws niceties out the window. Hospitality turns to havoc. Sanity shatters into shambles. Manners take a backseat as two couples are pushed to their limits during a weekend in the country. Will they be able to pick up the pieces over wine and muffins or will their poor behavior leave them irrevocably broken? Find out in this sharp-witted play by acclaimed playwright Theresa Rebeck.

Wit, charm, and scandal collide in Noel Coward's sparkling comedy PRIVATE LIVES. When a divorced couple unexpectedly reunites while honeymooning with their new spouses, chaos-and hilarity-ensues. With razor-sharp dialogue and timeless sophistication, this classic play is a deliciously clever look at love, passion, and the fine line between romance and rivalry.

Written by Lauren Gunderson and directed by Iris Sowlat, THE REVOLUTIONISTS is a hysterical and historical (or, more accurately, herstorical) play that invites audiences to experience the French Revolution from a female perspective. So don't pardon our French. Pardon our Frenchwomen and their tres merciless treatment during the Reign of Terror.

8-year-old Tina Denmark is a charming, sociopathic child star who’ll stop at nothing to land the lead role in her school musical. As her ambitious mother, Judy, transforms from a naive housewife to a Broadway diva, Tina’s psychotic drive for fame escalates, leading to a hilariously dark and twisted musical journey.

The Queen is jealous of Snow White's Beauty! So she runs off into the woods to live with seven crazy Dwarfs. Will the Queen find her? Will Prince Charming save the day? You won't want to miss this classic Fairy Tale presented by CKC. There is nothing scary in our version, just fun and silliness! All CKC shows feature plenty of audience participation and run for one hour with no intermission. Snow White is targeted for children from 2 to 10 years old.

Two years ago, Alé left the city to move back into their childhood home to caretake for their mother. Far from friends, their plans in the wind, Alé turned to the familiar world of TV sitcoms for comfort. That’s when Alé discovered Frasier.

Static-Head is a sharp, topical sci-fi thriller centered on Sensor-E, a hit new social media app capable of simulating real-life sensations-allowing users to touch, taste, and smell everything they see on their screens. When strange events begin unfolding at the prestigious Osman-Haskill University of Technology, where the app was first developed, the line between innovation and exploitation blurs. Written by Ryan Stevens and directed by Stefan Roseen, Static-Head renders a cautionary tale about the internet, AI, and the people it uses.

A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE is considered to be one of the great classics of the American theatre. When Blanche DuBois, a troubled woman with a dark past, moves in with her sister Stella and her volatile husband Stanley, she learns that genteel pretensions are no match for the harsh realities symbolized by her brutish brother-in-law. It is an emotionally charged drama that explores desire, delusion, and the harsh realities of human nature

US premiere of an Irish drama that was revived in 2024 at Dublin's Abbey Theatre. Set in Dublin, 1850: The delicate balance at the heart of an affluent Dublin couple's marriage and family business is challenged when two visitors come to Ireland to speak to the public about trade, money and slavery. Exploring the dark side of global commodities like sugar, the play asks the question: if your wealth is built on exploitation, can it really be used to build a better world?

Inspired by both historical and current neuroscience research, the show takes you on an intimate and immersive journey inside how we see and create our worlds. Peer behind the curtain of the physical realm as you move through a series of rooms with your guide, where you’ll participate in thought-provoking experiences—and marvel at the wonders of your mind.

A one-hour musical adaptation! Meet Roxanne, Petunia, and Babe...three Sister Piggies who set out to build their own houses. Roxanne (The Rock'n Roll Pig) builds hers out of sticks, Petunia (The Pretty Pig) builds hers out of straw, and Babe (The Sensible, Smart Pig) builds hers out of bricks! Which house will the Big Bad Wolf "huff and puff and blow down?" Don't miss CKC's most popular show! All CKC productions feature professional actors, colorful scenery and costumes, sing-along songs, and plenty of audience participation. This show perfect for children ages 2 to 10!

Idle Muse celebrates 20 years of productions with The Three Musketeers. Based on Alexander Dumas' celebrated 1844 novel, the Jeff Award-winning Robert Kauzlaric adapts the French tale of swashbuckling intrigue, adventure and fellowship as newly-minted musketeer D'Artagnan and the famous "three inseparables," Athos, Porthos and Aramis take on the machinations of a scheming cardinal and his minions.

In this play with broken songs, Shakespeare’s Ophelia rises out of the water dreaming of reclaiming her life. She finds herself in a neo-Elizabethan Appalachian setting where Gertrude runs a brothel, Hamlet is a Rude Boy and nothing is what it seems. In this mirrored world of word-scraps and cold sex, Ophelia cuts a new path for herself.

Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me! is National Public Radio's Peabody Award-winning comedy news quiz show. Host Peter Sagal leads a rotating panel of comedians, writers, listener contestants, and celebrity guests through a rollicking review of the week's news. Contestants vie for the most coveted prize in all of public radio: a custom-recorded greeting by any of our cast members for their voicemail. Every week, Wait, Wait.... Don't Tell Me! records in front of a live audience, then carefully edits out all the raunchy, inappropriate, shocking, and hilarious stuff so we can broadcast something that doesn't get NPR in trouble... well, more trouble. The

White Rooster is a darkly funny tale of love, loss and the strange things we inherit. After a family tragedy, Min is pulled into a world of restless spirits, old curses and mysterious traditions. Her fiancé won’t stay dead, her sister won’t stay buried and a rooster won’t be ignored. Blending spooky folklore with offbeat humor, White Rooster is a haunting tale of grief, family and the messiness of moving on.

This is a story about money. Don't let them fool you otherwise. When Mac loses his child in a clash with the local police, he is visited by three strangers who advise him to take the city's cash settlement, relocate and forget his grief - or else stay and remain impoverished surrounded by memories of the world his child fought so hard to protect. This world premiere from Academy Award-winning ensemble member Tarell Alvin McCraney explores how grief, justice, sexuality, gender, history and even pride become secondary concerns in the wake of currency.