How could a play simply titled “Race” not be edgy, risk-taking and a bit outrageous? Well, this David Mamet piece, which debuted on Broadway in 2009, certainly lives up to the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright’s illustrious and controversial reputation. The show, which runs a brief one hour and 50 minutes, including intermission, is a tour-de-force of […]
If you’re a theater lover and have never seen Edward Albee’s famous play about a couple’s turbulent relationship—or even if you have—don’t miss Steppenwolf’s current production. At 3 hours, with two 15-minute intermissions, this play is theater for serious theatergoers, but the fighting between the main couple, George and Martha—often funny and sometimes violent—keeps the […]
“The Nutcracker” is a perennial holiday favorite and Chicago enjoys a first class production by the Joffrey Ballet every December. The company’s 2010 production opened at the Auditorium Theatre Friday, Dec. 10 and it is like a snowflake, sparkling and suffused with light. Mischievous Fritz, danced by Ricardo Santos, and mysterious Dr. Drosselmeyer, danced by […]
The holidays are a fantastic time to catch a show in Chicago. Theater choices in Chicago and on the North Shore are plentiful—and varied. Whatever the reason— a holiday outing, date night, or family get-together—there’s plenty to choose from. Need a few quick ideas? Check out some of these reviews for an entertaining day or […]
Beautiful voices, evocative sets, unorthodox costumes and flawless orchestral accompaniment. The Lyric Opera of Chicago’s new production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s operetta “The Mikado,” conducted by music director Sir Andrew Davis, has all the ingredients for a terrific night at the theater. It does, however, require staying power, as it is three hours long. G&S […]
Be prepared to be surprised at Writers’ Theatre presentation of Graham Greene’s 1969 novel, “Travels With My Aunt‚” on its little stage at the back of Books on Vernon in Glencoe. The show is bold and imaginative and even has an unexpected, touching denouement. Four men, identical in Magritte-like bowlers, pinstripe suits, vests and matching […]
Girls want to see “Wicked” over and over again because in between flying monkeys, mob scenes and the big Oz machine is a story of friendship between two very different young women. The show, with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, is back in at the Cadillac Palace in Chicago, but only through January 23. […]
With its delicate dreamscapes, multiple storylines and emphasis on history, Northlight Theatre’s A Civil War Christmas is perfect for your inquisitive youngsters. It’s a great lesson for those who long to know more about the world and are sensitive to the fact that our country’s past is rooted in the darker side of humanity as […]
Are you looking for holiday statements devoid of traditional sing-a-longs or visions of Old Saint Nick? Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire’s production of Meredith Willson’s classic musical, The Music Man, offers a very charming alternative for positive wintertime celebrating. Recounting the well-worn tale of con man Harold Hill’s small town redemption via the affections of Marian, […]
Grand opera, in all its glory, is now playing at the Civic Opera House. The Lyric is presenting Giuseppe Verdi’s “A Masked Ball,” and it is just what the grandest of operas should be.
