CHI, IL LIVE THEATRE ON OUR RADAR: THE BOOK OF MORMON #Broadway in Chicago

It's finally opening week in Chi-Town for the most hotly anticipated Broadway Show of the year.   The Book of Mormon is here!   Tickets are sold out through March 3rd, but there are still tickets available after that.   Give the holiday gift of anticipation, laughter, and great memories. 


And you thought South Park was funny....


The Book of Mormon, written by the creators of South Park, is Broadway's smash hit. Check out The Book of Mormon in a city near you as the national tour is going on now.   Click here for full tour dates, tickets, and show info.   


Book it already!



Best Availability: Tuesdays & Wednesdays. 



Groups of 15+ Now On Sale! Call 312-977-1710

Nine 2011 Tony Awards® say it's the Best Musical of the Year. 


Vogue says, "It's the best musical of the last 25 years." 


And The New York Times says, "It's the best musical of this century." 


It's THE BOOK OF MORMON, the Broadway phenomenon from South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone and Avenue Q co-creator Robert Lopez. The Daily Show's Jon Stewart calls it "A crowning achievement. So good, it makes me angry." Contains explicit language. 

Note: Tickets may not be resold in any way. Tickets may not be transferred or distributed to any person or entity for sale. For further information, please see the Broadway In Chicago Ticketing Policy.

Ticket prices are $45 to $115.   Have you got yours yet?!

The Book of Mormon

Theatre : Bank of America Theatre, Chicago Illinois
Dates : Begins December 11, 2012
Running time: Two hours, 30 minutes with one intermission

ACT OUT OPENING: War Horse #Broadway in Chicago

ChiILpicks

Theatre tickets are a great clutter busting idea for the holidays and multigenerational fun!   Did you catch the War Horse movie?   Now all the excitement and action is LIVE on stage in a Broadway in Chicago extravaganza, opening December 18th at the gorgeous, ornate Cadillac Palace! The production is just in town through January 5th so book your tickets now.   The time frame is perfect for gifting and for making memories with visiting relatives.

War Horse

Theatre : Cadillac Palace Theatre, Chicago Illinois

Dates : December 18, 2012 - January 05, 2013

Running time: Two hours, 45 minutes with one intermission

A remarkable tale of courage, loyalty and friendship.
England, 1914. As World War One begins, Joey, young Albert's beloved horse, is sold to the cavalry and shipped from England to France. He's soon caught up in enemy fire, and fate takes him on an extraordinary journey, serving on both sides before finding himself alone in no man's land. But Albert cannot forget Joey and, still not old enough to enlist, he embarks on a treacherous mission to find him and bring him home.

This powerfully moving and imaginative drama, filled with stirring music and songs, is a show of phenomenal inventiveness that is currently playing to packed houses in London, New York and Toronto. At its heart are astonishing life-sized puppets created by South Africa's Handspring Puppet Company, that bring to life breathing, galloping, charging horses strong enough for men to ride.   warhorseonstage.com

Ticket prices are $30 to $105.

Groups of 15+ now on sale: 312-977-1710

ACT OUT: The Grinch, Peter Pan and Potted Potter #review

ACT OUT OPENING, EXTENDED & HIGHLY RECOMMENDED





Opening:

We can not wait for opening night tonight!   What says the holidays like the story of The Grinch?!   I've adored the books and the animated TV special since my own childhood, and my children have grown up loving the story as well.   Now tonight we'll get to see The Grinch Broadway style in a full blown, live, musical extravaganza!   We'll have a full review for you soon.   Get your tickets today, for this limited run.


Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
Theatre : Cadillac Palace Theatre, Chicago Illinois
Dates : December 5 - December 16, 2012
Tickets: http://ticketsus.at/BIC2000?LID=21&DURL=www.ticketmaster.co



Extended/Highly Recommended:





Potted Potter

Theatre : Broadway Playhouse, Chicago Illinois
Dates : November 13, 2012 - December 16, 2012
Tickets: http://www.ticketmaster.com/Potted-Potter-Chicago-tickets/artist/1760682?bran...

Carol Rosegg photo credit

ChiIL Mama and the kids got in on the opening night action at Potted Potter and we all loved it!  I honestly can't remember the last time an audience full of adults and kids all laughed so hard.   This low tech, old school show is brilliant sketch comedy, and supreme silliness coupled with over the top talent.   Dan and Jeff are two funny guys.   This show has been extended by popular demand so you have until January 6th to see these brilliantly beguiling Brits before they leave Chi-town.

HARRY POTTER FANS REJOICE -
EXTENDED BY POPULAR DEMAND!
KIDS COME FREE!Click HERE and use code FAMILY when ordering
for performances through December 23*
or 
GET THE BEST SEATS FOR ADDED PERFORMANCESLimited Time Presale Offer for Dec 26-Jan 6 Performances Click HERE and use code HARRIS when ordering**


A
Critic's Pick by the New York Times, New York Magazine and Time Out
London, Potted Potter: The Unauthorized Harry Experience — A Parody by
Dan and Jeff, won the prestigious 2012 Olivier Award nomination for Best
Entertainment & Family Show; playing to sold-out houses worldwide.



Written and performed by former BBC Television hosts Daniel Clarkson and
Jefferson Turner, the play takes on the ultimate challenge of
condensing, or "potting", all seven Harry Potter books into 70 madcap
minutes, aided only by multiple costume changes, brilliant songs,
ridiculous props and a generous helping of Hogwarts magic. The show also
invites audiences to engage with a real life game of Quidditch, but
according to Clarkson and Turner's unique set of rules.

Whether
you camped outside a bookstore for three days awaiting the release of
the Deathly Hallows or you don't know the difference between a horcrux
and a Hufflepuff, the comedy, magic and mayhem of POTTED POTTER makes
for an entertaining and hilarious visit to the theatre. The fast-paced
show, which has made audiences aged six to Dumbledore (who is very old
indeed) roar with laughter all over the world, is perfect for the entire
family.


"A fabulously funny parody...will tickle the funny bone of every age group." - The Daily Telegraph


"Breathless and...HILARIOUS! -The New York Times 


"...a zany hoot!"-The New York Post 


"...an AWESOME show!" - Time Magazine for Kids




Coming Soon:




Cathy Rigby is Peter Pan
Theatre: Cadillac Palace Theatre
Dates: January 30, 2013 - February 10, 2013
Tickets:http://www.ticketmaster.com/Peter-Pan-Chicago-tickets/artist/1582489?brand=bi...

Tony®Award nominee Cathy Rigby takes flight in an all new production of PETER PAN! Discover the magic all over again of this two time Emmy awardwinning and two time Tony® Award nominated production. 

The New York Times says "Rigby still carries off the flights, fights and acrobatics that make Peter Pan audiences mesmerized." PETER PAN is filled with timeless magical moments and a captivating hook. The legend you thought you know, is now the adventure you never dreamed possible...Cathy Rigby is PETER PAN!

Fall Into Fabulous Fun With Broadway in Chicago #BroadwayinChicago

Fall means crisp leaves under foot, chilly nights and great theatre.   Live plays and musicals are great family fun, adult nights out, and an excellent clutter busting gift that leaves lasting memories.




Check out this sizzle reel for hot, Broadway in Chicago shows, to warm your heart this fall and winter.   Then check back with ChiIL Mama/ChiIL Live Shows for reviews, photo filled features and the heads up on upcoming shows, ticket sale dates, specials and more.

Of course, we've been promoting these shows below for months, but they're finally HERE!   If you haven't booked your tickets yet, don't miss you chance.














Tonight:  We'll be catching opening night of Sister Act


Theatre : Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, Chicago Illinois
Dates :

November 13, 2012 - December 02, 2012
Running time:  Two hours, 30 minutes with one intermission

SISTER ACT is Broadway's feel-amazing musical comedy smash! The New York
Post calls it "RIDICULOUSLY FUN," and audiences are jumping to their
feet in total agreement! Featuring original music by 8-time Oscar®
winner ALAN MENKEN (Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Little
Shop of Horrors), SISTER ACT tells the story of Deloris Van Cartier, a
wannabe diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a
crime and the cops hide her in the last place anyone would think to
look—a convent! Under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris
helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly
rediscovers her own. A sparkling tribute to the universal power of
friendship, SISTER ACT is reason to REJOICE!

Ticket prices are $28 to $103.
Groups of 15+ now on sale! Call 312-977-1710. 



 

Potted Potter


We're also super stoked to see Potted Potter!   We're going Sunday the 18th and will have a full review for you.   

Theatre : Broadway Playhouse, Chicago Illinois
Dates :  November 13, 2012 - December 23, 2012
Running time:  70 minutes, no intermission
 
A Critic's Pick by the New York Times, New York Magazine and Time Out London, Potted Potter: The Unauthorized Harry Experience — A Parody
by Dan and Jeff, won the prestigious 2012 Olivier Award nomination for
Best Entertainment & Family Show; playing to sold-out houses
worldwide. Written and performed by former BBC Television hosts Daniel
Clarkson and Jefferson Turner, the play takes on the ultimate challenge
of condensing, or "potting", all seven Harry Potter books into 70 madcap
minutes, aided only by multiple costume changes, brilliant songs,
ridiculous props and a generous helping of Hogwarts magic. The show also
invites audiences to engage with a real life game of Quidditch, but
according to Clarkson and Turner's unique set of rules.

Whether you camped outside a bookstore for three days awaiting the
release of the Deathly Hallows or you don't know the difference between a
horcrux and a Hufflepuff, the comedy, magic and mayhem of POTTED POTTER
makes for an entertaining and hilarious visit to the theatre. The
fast-paced show, which has made audiences aged six to Dumbledore (who is
very old indeed) roar with laughter all over the world, is perfect for
the entire family.


"A fabulously funny parody…will tickle the funny bone of every age group." - The Daily Telegraph,


"Breathless and…HILARIOUS! -The New York Times


"…a zany hoot!"-The New York Post


"...an AWESOME show!" - Time Magazine for Kids

Ticket prices are $39.95 to $84.95.

 

  

Les Mis

Theatre : Cadillac Palace Theatre, Chicago Illinois


Dates : November 14, 2012 - December 02, 2012


Running time: 2 hours and 50 minutes, including intermission
 

We're also hoping to catch Les Mis at some point.   There is no official press night since the show is no stranger to Chi-Town.   I've seen it myself before, but the kids (9 & 11) are finally old enough to appreciate and understand it and Les Mis is one of my all time favorites.   We'll keep you posted if we have a chance to get there and review the remount.   I'm particularly interested in sharing the kids' take on the show.


DREAM THE DREAM 

Cameron Mackintosh presents a brand new 25th anniversary production of Boublil & Schönberg's legendary musical, LES MISÉRABLES, with glorious new staging and dazzlingly reimagined scenery inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo. This new production has been acclaimed by critics, fans and new audiences and is breaking box office records wherever it goes. 

The New York Times calls this LES MISÉRABLES "an unquestionably spectacular production from start to finish." The London Times hails the new show "a five star hit, astonishingly powerful." The Star-Ledger says "a dynamically re-imagined hit. This 'LES MISÉRABLES' has improved with age" and NY1-TV proclaims "this new production actually exceeds the original. The storytelling is clearer, the perspective grittier and the motivations more honest. Musical theatre fans can rejoice: 'Les Miz' is born again." 

Based on Victor Hugo's classic novel, LES MISÉRABLES is an epic and uplifting story about the survival of the human spirit. The magnificent score of LES MISÉRABLES includes the classic songs "I Dreamed a Dream," "On My Own," "Stars," "Bring Him Home," "Do You Hear the People Sing?," "One Day More," "Empty Chairs at Empty Tables," "Master Of The House" and many more. 

Ticket prices are $23 to $120.

 
Coming Soon: 

 



Emerald City Theatre
Presents
CINDERELLA

Theatre : Broadway Playhouse, Chicago Illinois
Dates : November 23, 2012 - January 06, 2013



The holidays have arrived, and with them the anticipated Royal Ball! Cinderella's cruel Stepmother and Stepsisters are plotting to win the heart of The Prince, but a spunky and barefoot servant girl may just become the belle of the ball. This swashbuckling Cinderella just needs a little help from her Fairy Godmother and one ratty Footman to find her happy ending. Emerald City's adaptation of this favorite fairy tale is a musical holiday wish come true. 





Cinderella is best suited for ages 3-10. 

Ticket prices are $16 to $22. 

Groups of 10+ On Sale Now! Call 312-977-1710
 

We're also HUGE Dr. Seuss fans and can't wait to see this holiday classic at gorgeous Cadillac Palace Theatre!!   The show opens Dec. 5th.   Got your tickets?

Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical
Theatre : Cadillac Palace Theatre, Chicago Illinois
Dates : December 05, 2012 - December 16, 2012
Running time: 90 minutes with no intermission

Discover the magic of Dr. Seuss' classic holiday tale as it comes to life on stage. Featuring the hit songs "You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch" and "Welcome Christmas," The Grinch discovers there's more to Christmas than he bargained for in this heart-warming holiday classic. Max the Dog narrates as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is "two sizes too small", decides to steal Christmas away from the Whos, an endlessly cheerful bunch bursting with holiday spirit. Celebrate the holidays with this heart-warming holiday classic.

Ticket prices are $18 to $85.  

 I Love Lucy



We caught opening night of this interactive blast from the past and adored it!   Check out our show review here.   Want more of our past Lucy coverage...click here.   They've been extended by popular demand and tickets are now available through March 3rd.    This live version of the show is a hoot!   If you miss it, you've got some 'splainin to do!!

I Love Lucy® Live On Stage
Theatre : Broadway Playhouse, Chicago Illinois
Dates :

September 12, 2012 - March 03, 2013
Running time:  95 minutes, no intermission


EXTENDED BY POPULAR DEMAND!
TICKETS NOW ON SALE FOR PERFORMANCES THROUGH MARCH 3, 2013.


I LOVE LUCY® LIVE ON STAGE, the brand new hit musical stage show adapted from the longest-running and most beloved television program in history, starring Lucy, Ricky, Fred and Ethel: America's favorite foursome, is coming to Chicago for the very first time!

Imagine stepping back in time and into the Desilu Playhouse soundstage!
It's 1952 and you are a member of the studio audience awaiting the
filming of two hilarious and oh so familiar "I Love Lucy" episodes. A
charming host entertains and enlightens you to the behind-the-scenes
filming process, the1950's hi-fidelity technology, and this brand new
thing called 'television'. The episodes begin and you witness,
firsthand, the side-splitting antics of that crazy redhead in the
Ricardo's New York apartment and thrill to the Cuban sounds of "The
Ricky Ricardo Orchestra" at the famed Tropicana Nightclub. In between
scenes? The Crystaltone Singers perform live advertising jingles of the
show's newest sponsors in perfect 50s style harmony. Can you say
'Brylcreem'?!

Ticket prices are $35 to $85.
Tickets are available now for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312)977-1710. 

Check out Broadway in Chicago's main site right here, to book your tickets and see their full season of upcoming shows.   We can't wait for The Book of Mormon!!!!   We're also stoked for War Horse, Cathy Rigby is Peter Pan, and more.

ACT OUT: Broadway in Chicago Sizzle Reel Video #Theatre

Fall into a stellar line up with Broadway in Chicago's current offerings.   The 2nd city's theatre scene is 2nd to none!   Order your tickets NOW for the best choice in seats.


We'll be there tonight for opening night of I Love Lucy LIVE and we'll have a full review up for you shortly.   Check back with ChiIL Live Shows and ChiIL Mama like we vote in Chi, IL...early and often for loads of theatre news, show reviews, original video interviews, photo filled features and more.


Of course we're soooo stoked for the Tony Award winning Book of Mormon in December, by the creators of South Park.   It's one of the hottest shows and hardest tickets to get.   

So don't wait.   Get your tickets already!   AmEx presale ends today.

http://broadwayinchicago.com/

But between now and then there are some sweet shows coming to town for the whole family and for adult nights out.   Les Miserables is one of my favs, and I'm excited my kids are finally old enough to see it for the first time.   Cinderella's also sure to be a family pleaser, as is The Grinch and War Horse.

On the adult night out front, I'm looking forward to the world premier of Kinky Boots, with a score by Cindy Lauper!    

Check out Broadway in Chicago's main site here for ticket ordering info and show specifics.