We’ve survived the holidays, people; we’ve cured the hangovers, sidestepped that unwanted mistletoe kiss and kept the holiday weight gain down.
Let’s celebrate our endurance with some theater that examines resilience and the indomitable human spirit.
American Theater Company’s “Disgraced”
February 3-March 4
1909 W. Byron St., Chicago
773-409-4125
atcweb.org
American Theater Company presents Ayad Aktar’s chronicle of identity and betrayal. As a Muslim-American lawyer moves up the corporate ladder, he loses sight of his cultural roots. Just as he accomplishes his lifelong professional ambitions, he is personally and professionally betrayed.
Steppenwolf Theatre Company’s “Time Stands Still”
January 19-May 13
1650 N. Halsted St., Chicago
312-335-1650
steppenwolf.org
Photojournalist Sarah has endured war after war, happily globetrotting in search of conflict. After narrowly surviving an Iraqi bomb blast, she returns home to be caught off guard by her lover James’ desire for home and family. Sarah then negotiates her addiction to adrenaline and the possibility of a “normal” life.
Broadway in Chicago’s “Come Fly Away”
January 10-22
Bank of America Theater, 18 W. Monroe St., Chicago
312-977-1700
broadwayinchicago.com
Ol’ Blue Eyes is back; the perennial favorite’s work gets feet flying again in Twyla Tharp’s latest salute to the bobbysoxer’s dream. Sinatra’s vocals backed by a live band will keep you toe tapping until the wee small hours.
Lookingglass Theatre’s “Mr. Rickey Calls a Meeting”
January 4-February 19
821 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago
312-337-0665
lookingglasstheatre.org
Brooklyn Dodgers’ General Manager Branch Rickey prepares to call up Jackie Robinson to the majors—and risks alienating every ally he has in the game. Ed Schmidt’s fastball script gathers African-American personalities Joe Louis, Paul Robeson and Bill “Bojangles” Robinson together for a thought-provoking evening.
Lifeline Theatre Kid Series’ “How to Survive a Fairy Tale”
January 7-February 26
6912 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago
773-761-4477
lifelinetheatre.com
Jack grew up in a house without fairy tales, with a frog for a father and a princess for a mother. Now, stranded in a forest and threatened by trolls, witches and bears, he must figure out fairy tale rules and help his parents find their happy ending. Recommended for children ages 5 and up.
Photo credit: “Come Fly Away” photo by Joan Marcus
