For many, the holidays are synonymous with the theater—whether it’s a holiday date night out on the town or a traditional family trip to the city.
Make this year special—from the traditional to funky, the choice is yours.
Bah Humbug!
Through December 22
Piccolo Theatre, 600 Main St., Evanston
847-424-0089
Looking for a slightly more intimate, but equally entertaining version of the holiday classic? Try this relaxing alternative—a Dickens Panto-style, complete with cross-dressing, music and magic. It’s also a show designed for family fun—meaning the kids aren’t expected to sit quietly with their hands in their laps.
Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol”
Through December 29
Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago
312-443-3800
It’s the 35th anniversary for this Chicago theater tradition. Join the Goodman in this celebration of the quintessential holiday classic. Our advice if you’ve already been? Take a friend or family member that hasn’t seen the show before—you may see it in an entirely new way.
The Chimes: A Goblin Story
December 15, 22, 23 & 31
Remy Bumppo Theatre
Greenhouse Theatre Center, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago
For something a little different, try Remy Bumppo’s take on Dickens at the holidays. “The Chimes” is actually the first of four holiday tales written by Dickens and is equally engaging as its famous cousin, with captivating storytelling.
Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
December 5-16
Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago
312-977-1700
A great choice for families with little ones in tow, the on-stage version of this Dr. Seuss classic brings the Grinch to life, as well as the songs we hum all season long. You’ll leave with a heart two sizes too big.
The Santaland Diaries
November 23–December 30
Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago
773-975-8150
The David Sedaris-penned play returns for its ninth consecutive year. Mitchell Fain reprises his role as Crumpet, Santa’s less-than-helpful helper, regaling the audience with true, behind-the-tights tales from the wickedly funny Sedaris’ past.
The Second City’s Holiday in the Heights
November 23–January 4
Metropolis Performing Arts Theatre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights
847-577-2121
A great way to enjoy Second City without having to, you know … get to Second City. An annual tradition at Metropolis with laser focus on the crazy that the holidays bring. You can also take this opportunity to give back—the theater is running a food drive through the end of the year.
We Three Lizas
November 30–December 22
Steppenwolf Garage, 1624 N.Halstead, Chicago
312-335-1650
Kicking yourself for missing “Kinky Boots?” Redemption can be found here. Enjoy a rollicking take on the holidays when Conrad Ticklebottom calls on the Great Queen of Wishes, asking for youth, power and wealth, and gets Liza Minnelli on his doorstep instead. Don’t miss the 45-minute pre-show in “Liza’s Lounge” for an extra dose of fun.
December Theater Listing
Bank of America Theatre
The Book of Mormon
Opens December 11
312-977-1700
Cadillac Palace Theatre
War Horse
December 18-January 5
312-977-1700
Chicago Shakespeare Theater
The School for Lies
Opens December 4
312-595-5600
The Citadel
Little Women
Through December 30
847-735-8554
Lookingglass Theatre Chicago
Metamorphoses
Through December 16
312-337-0665
Marriott Theatre Lincolnshire
My One and Only
Through January 6
847-634-0200
TimeLine Theatre
Wasteland
Through December 30
773-281-8463
Writers Theatre
The Letters
Through March 3
847-242-6000
