Better Makers: WordPlay Gala Raises $850,000 for Glencoe's Writers Theatre

On April 21, 350 influential Chicagoland leaders gathered at the Four Seasons in support of Writers Theatre’s renowned arts and strong education programing. A record-breaking $850,000 was raised for the local theater. The Spirit of Writers Theatre Award went to Stephanie and Bill Sick, residents of Winnetka, Illinois, and strong supporters of the theater. “Stephanie […]

14 Upcoming Shows and Plays in Chicago You Won't Want to Miss

We turn the spotlight on the hottest plays and musicals in Chicago this spring and summer. “Jesus Christ Superstar“ April 27 to May 20 Lyric Opera of Chicago continues its acclaimed Broadway at Lyric initiative with Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s popular 1970 rock opera about the last week of Jesus’ life. This is […]

Fall Footlights: 5 Shows Hitting Chicago Stages

This month brings two musical productions about teens to our local stages – along with a bio of Richard Pryor, an octogenarian struggling with her memory and a revue of classic movie songs. “Hollywood’s Greatest Song Hits”  Oct. 2 – 11 Singers from the North Shore group Light Opera Works give voice to the most […]

Theater Season Ticket Subscriptions Around Chicagoland

For theatergoers, season ticket subscriptions offer savings on ticket costs, the ability to change seats or performance dates, and the chance to put some outings on the calendar months ahead of time. And, subscriptions are a way of putting your money behind a group you like. Here’s a look at several superb Chicago-area theater subscription […]

5 Things to Do: July 31-Aug. 2

It’s time for popular bands and up-and-coming acts to once again descend upon Grant Park for Lollapalooza. Not a fan? You can still spend time in the city at Pilsen’s Fiesta del Sol. Or, get your music fix in Rosemont, where Kelly Clarkson is making her latest tour stop. Then, visit Evanston for the annual […]

Best of 2015: Arts & Entertainment

Make It Better’s Best of 2015 drew more than 105,000 verified votes across 10 categories. Share your thoughts with us on social media using the hashtag #MIBBestof2015. Live Music Venue Ravinia (North Shore) This winner came as no surprise: You’ve chosen this outdoor music venue every year since 2012. 200 Ravinia Park Road, Highland Park, 847-266-5000 […]

A Tale of Two Men

The artistic director of a theater company is like the captain of a ship. A captain can’t do everything but must be sure everything gets done. Tasks include overseeing the budget, choosing the repertoire, hiring actors, set designers, costumers and directors. The men at the helm of two important North Shore theaters—BJ Jones, now in […]

The New Philanthropists: Writers Theatre

Twenty years ago, when Artistic Director Michael Halberstam first founded Writers Theatre in Glencoe, their plays were produced in the back of Books on Vernon, hardly an auspicious start. But with persistence, charm, and riveting, must-see productions, Halberstam won over Glencoe, the North Shore and Chicago, expanding into a larger space at the Woman’s Library Club of Glencoe. This year, […]

January North Shore Theatre Guide

There’s something special about live theater, and the North Shore has some of the country’s finest productions and venues to choose from. Make it a special evening by catching one of these top-notch productions: Northlight Theatre Skokie Box Office: 847-673-6300 Starting January 21: “Awake and Sing” The Attic Playhouse Highwood Box Office: 847-433-2660 Starting January […]