REVIEW: Oil Lamp Theater's I LOVE YOU BECAUSE Now Playing Through September 13, 2026

Dating Life Underperforming? This Pride & Prejudice Inspired Rom-Com IRL Does Not Disappoint.

ChiIL Live Shows on our Radar:

Oil Lamp Theater's 

I LOVE YOU BECAUSE 

Now Playing Through September 13

The total running time, with intermission, is two hours and 10 minutes.

REVIEW

By Bonnie Kenaz-Mara

Although I've been happily married for 26 years and with the same guy for 31, the majority of my friends are single, so I'm still privy to the horrors of the cesspool... Erm, I mean the dating pool. I Love You Because is a fun Girls Nite Out show or even a great date night conversation starter. Commiserate, empathize, and enjoy. ChiIL Live Shows on Our Radar. Recommended. Three out of four stars. ★★★

Love Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice or are Rom-Coms more your jam? This live stage Rom-Com loosely inspired by Austen's iconic work does not disappoint. Other people's love lives or lack thereof can be prime comedic gold. Hope springs eternal, love is timeless, and disappointing dates are universal. That's why Jane Austen’s legendary romance novel, Pride and Prejudice, still resonates today, and so does I Love You Because. 

All production photos by Gosia Matuszewska/Gosia Photography

Shout out to the props and set design teams. This intimate space is chock full of colorful cubicles full of interesting tchotchkes. And clever logos light up to cue the audience in to different New York watering holes, coffee shops and restaurants, without complicated set changes. 

I Love You Because is a lighthearted, playful, laugh out loud delight and worth the trek out to Glenview. We enjoyed watching the leads' romances through the eyes of the bartenders and baristas who spend their workdays immersed in the psychology of it all. 

We're routing for the young lovers, despite their differences. Though major differences in spontaneity, and organizational styles are the stuff that keep marriage councilors in demand. I wanted to tell these characters what I told my own twenty something children. If you're getting serious with someone, road trip with them, and you'll find out fast if you're long term compatible. I'm not so sure these couples would pass the trip test, but the show is entertaining nonetheless. And the old trope "Opposites Attract" is a timeless truism. 

Pros: Well cast with lots of Northwestern University alums and Chicago actors just starting their professional careers. 

Complimentary chocolate chip cookies baked by Misericordia.

The front of house staff is amazing, especially with patrons with mobility issues.

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Fully stocked bar with fun show tie-in drinks. 

Street parking is free and usually plentiful. If street spots are all taken, you can still park for free in the bank lot, a short walk away. Check Oil Lamp's site for parking tips. 

Cons: If you attend a matinee, expect dog barking to bleed through into the performance space from the business next door. It's not so apparent for this show as the music is loud and plentiful. 

Sight-lines can be a challenge and the seats are close together without cup holders so it's not the most comfortable space. On the upside, they're working on renovating a better space, so chip in to their building fund if you can. 

I Love You Because is now playing at Oil Lamp Theater through September 13th so catch it while you can. Book and lyrics by Ryan Cunningham, music by Joshua Salzman and orchestrations by Larry Hochman, directed by Scott Shallenbarger and music directed by Aaron Kahn. Great for all ages, and a fun multigenerational pick.

Bonnie is a Chicago based writer, theatre critic, photographer, artist, and empty nester. She owns two websites where she publishes frequently: ChiILLiveShows.com (adult) & ChiILMama.com (family friendly).

OIL LAMP THEATER'S

I LOVE YOU BECAUSE

NOW PLAYING THROUGH SEPTEMBER 13th 

DIRECTED BY SCOTT SHALLENBARGER AND MUSIC DIRECTED BY AARON KAHN

The Contemporary Musical About Modern Dating, Based on Jane Austen’s Classic Novel “Pride and Prejudice” Comes to Oil Lamp this Summer

Oil Lamp Theater is proud to bring I Love You Because to audiences through September 13th. Book and lyrics by Ryan Cunningham, music by Joshua Salzman and orchestrations by Larry Hochman. Directed by Scott Shallenbarger with music directed by Aaron Kahn, at Oil Lamp Theater, 1723 Glenview Road. 

The performance schedule is Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. with additional Wednesday performances Wednesday, Aug. 19 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.; Wednesday Aug. 26 at 7:30 p.m. (Understudy Performance); Wednesday, Sept. 2 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. and Wednesday Sept. 9 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now for $30 for previews and $55 for the run at OilLampTheater.org.

Modern dating is a mess. Sometimes to find Mr. Right you need to find Mr. Wrong – even if that means seeing someone stuck on their ex, awkward encounters of the intimate kind and lots of bad coffee dates. Opposites attract in this feel-good musical that will transport you into the heart of your favorite guilty pleasure rom-com. Created by acclaimed musical team Ryan Cunningham and Joshua Salzman and inspired by Jane Austen’s gold-standard romance novel “Pride and Prejudice,” this delightful modern musical will make you fall head over heels.

The cast of I Love You Because includes Aiden McCoy (any with respect, Austin Bennet); Maxwell J DeTogne (any with respect, Jeff Bennet); Hannah Kipp (she/her, Marcy Fitzwilliams); Kristin Brintnall (she/her, Diana Bingley); Daria Koon (she/they, NYC Woman); Tommy Rothwells (he/him, NYC Man); Freddy Mauricio (he/him, Austin Bennet U/S); Nic Eastlund (he/him, Jeff Bennet U/S); Kaitie Bonds (she/her, Marcy Fitzwilliams U/S); Dominique Ruffalo (she/her, Diana Bingley U/S); Nikki Holladay (she/her, NYC Woman U/S) and Joe Dennis (he/him, NYC Man U/S).

The production team includes Scott Shallenbarger (he/him, director); Aaron Kahn (he/him, music director/accompanist); Bob Knuth (he/him, scenic designer); Devin Meseke (he/him, properties designer); Maya Reter (she/her, sound designer); Sara Segneri (she/her, stage manager); Danielle Reinhardt (she/her, costume designer); Conner Nicoson (they/them, technical director); Connor Windle (she/her, production manager) and Rose Leisner (she/her, company manager).

ABOUT SCOTT SHALLENBARGER, DIRECTOR

Scott Shallenbarger makes his Oil Lamp debut with I Love You Because. Representative credits include Miracle on South Division Street, I And You, Baby the Musical (Citadel Theatre); Les Miserables (Uptown Music Theatre Company); The Glass Menagerie, Six Degrees of Separation, The Road to Mecca, Hot L Baltimore, The Children’s Crusade (Raven Theatre); Jeffrey and Love, Valor, Compassion (Hubris Productions) and Skyscraper (Piven Theatre). Shallenbarger is a published playwright and teaching artist who would like to thank you, dear audience, for attending live theatre.

ABOUT AARON KAHN, MUSIC DIRECTOR

Aaron Kahn is thrilled to be returning to Oil Lamp after previously working on the productions of It’s A Wonderful Life: A Radio Play and The Marvelous Wonderettes. Kahn is also a private voice teacher at the Christopher Laughlin School of Music in Northbrook and is a staff accompanist at Carthage College. Other favorite music and assistant music direction credits include: Fugitive Songs (Stagedoor Manor); Mel Brooks’ The Producers (Music Theater Works); A Little Night Music (Theo Ubique) and Spring Awakening (4 Chairs Theatre).

MORE FROM FROM OIL LAMP THEATER

Dial M For Murder
October 2 – November 1, 2026

Adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher from the original play by Frederick Knott
Directed by Daniel King

Preview Performances: Friday, Oct. 2 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 3 at 3 p.m.
Opening Night: Saturday, Oct. 3 at 7:30 p.m.

Performance schedule: Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. with additional Wednesday performances Wednesday, Oct. 7 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.; Wednesday Oct. 14 at 7:30 p.m. (Understudy Performance); Wednesday Oct. 21 at 11:00 a.m. and 3 p.m. and Wednesday, Oct. 28 at 7:30 p.m.

Alfred Hitchcock’s adored, chilling thriller gets a modern twist that no one will see coming. A murderous misstep begins a high-stakes hunt for the real criminal as time is quickly running out. This captivating, heart-racing play leaves audiences on the edge of their seats while the mystery of the year unravels before their eyes. Will the clues unlock the right person, or will an innocent victim pay the price? The suspense is to die for…

It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
November 20 - December 27, 2026

Adapted by Joe Landry
Directed by Becca Holloway

Preview Performances: Friday, Nov. 20 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 21 at 3 p.m.
Opening Night: Saturday, Nov. 21 at 7:30 p.m.

Performance schedule: Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. with additional Wednesday performances Wednesday, Dec. 2 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.; Wednesday Dec. 9 at 7:30 p.m. (Understudy Performance); Wednesday Dec. 16 at 11:00 a.m. and 3 p.m. and Wednesday, Dec. 23 at 7:30 p.m.

The holiday tradition returns for its 13th year. Audiences may experience unmatched holiday cheer with Frank Capra's beloved classic, “It's a Wonderful Life,” reimagined as a captivating live radio play, complete with foley sound effects and set in our own WBFR radio studio.

Journey to Bedford Falls, where George Bailey's troubles lead him to wish he was never born. Clarence, an angel sent to intervene, steps in to make his wishes come true and George quickly learns just how many lives he has touched and just how blessed he really is.

*All productions, dates, creatives, etc. are subject to change.

All production photos by Gosia Matuszewska/Gosia Photography

ABOUT OIL LAMP THEATER

Oil Lamp Theater is a professional nonprofit performing arts organization in Glenview, Illinois, welcoming over 10,000 patrons annually from more than 225 communities—41% from Glenview and others from across the North Shore and Chicago. Since establishing its intimate 60-seat home in downtown Glenview in 2012, Oil Lamp has grown into a cultural beacon, earning recognition as “Best Live Theatre in the North Shore” for four consecutive years.

With more than 70 productions to date, Oil Lamp is known for its dynamic Mainstage season, special events and its resilience during the pandemic, when it innovated with drive-in performances and outdoor productions. Today, the theatre continues to foster connection, broaden horizons and illuminate the human condition through professional theater and year-round programming.

In addition to its productions, Oil Lamp Theater operates Oil Lamp Academy, its education branch dedicated to “Training for Life Through the Performing Arts.” In 2025 alone, the program served more than 230 students ages three to 97 years old, offering classes that use theater as a pathway to build confidence, creativity and lifelong skills.

This past September, Oil Lamp launched Light The Way, a transformative fundraising campaign designed to expand arts education, strengthen essential staff and establish a larger performance venue with the goal of staying in downtown Glenview. Building on its roots as a scrappy storefront, Oil Lamp is evolving into a more robust organization—without losing the intimacy and warmth that define its theater experience. Oil LampTheater hopes this announcement inspires excitement throughout the community. Stay tuned as additional news is shared in the near future. For information or to support the campaign go to OilLampTheater.org/Light-the-Way or reach out to Oil Lamp at light-the-way@oillamptheater.org.

REVIEW: The Outsider Now Playing Through February 22 at Oil Lamp Theater

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar: 

Oil Lamp's Finding the Funny in Political Theatre 

OIL LAMP THEATER’S 2026 SEASON KICKS OFF WITH 

THE OUTSIDER

NOW PLAYING THROUGH FEBRUARY 22, 2026

DIRECTED BY SCOTT WESTERMAN

A Comedy of Campaign Chaos Kicks Off the New Season

REVIEW

By Bonnie Kenaz-Mara

In the weird microcosm that is Chicago Theatre, you can catch both The Outsider and The Outsiders playing this February. Lest you get confused, the first to open, Oil Lamp Theatre's political comedy, is a laugh out loud slice of hilarious human nature. What a welcome break from the alternating tragedy and absurdist theatre our actual US politics so often descend into these days.  

We were charmed and amused by Ned Newley, a guy too smart, genuine, and nice to be governor. He's been running everything efficiently for years, behind the scenes, while the corrupt governor playboy takes credit for his work and goofs off. When the camera shy, bumbling 2nd in command becomes governor by default, the pr team runs triage and hilarity ensues. Newbie Newley won our hearts, and while the jokes and physical comedy provided a welcome breath of fresh laughter, there's depth and truth to this tale too. It's about time we take another look at slickness over substance; image over integrity, and start picking politicians with brains and a moral compass, over social media fluff that polls well. 

The entire cast brought a high energy, playful vibe to the production, that's well worth a trek to suburban Glenview. Even my husband, a location sound engineer, who's done plenty of political press junkets over the decades, thought it was quite funny and spot on. He's run audio for Joe Biden (ABC: World News Tonight) and George W Bush (CNN),  as well as lots of local politicians, so he found the crew bits particularly funny. 

The Outsider's got our vote! Three out of three stars. ★★★ Recommended. 

Kudos also to Oil Lamp on their recent expansion with the SPARK CENTER, which offers arts education for all ages with a focus on youth. In September 2025, Oil Lamp launched Light The Way, a transformative fundraising campaign designed to expand arts education, strengthen essential staff and establish a larger performance venue. Here at ChiIL Live Shows, we've been covering Oil Lamp for years and we're excited to see what's next for this intrepid, suburban storefront. We hope they'll continue with the beloved, free chocolate chip cookies from Misericordia, in their new lobby, too. 

Bonnie is a Chicago based writer, theatre critic, photographer, artist, and Mama to 2 amazing adults. She owns two websites where she publishes frequently: ChiILLiveShows.com (adult) & ChiILMama.com (family friendly).

Oil Lamp Theater’s first production of its 2026 season, The Outsider, written by Paul Slade Smith and directed by Scott Westerman, is now playing through February 22 at Oil Lamp Theater, 1723 Glenview Road. The running time, including the intermission, is two hours and 15 minutes. The performance schedule is Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 3 and 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. There will be additional Wednesday performances Jan. 28 and Feb. 11 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. and Feb. 18 at 7:30 p.m. There will be an understudy performance on Wednesday, Feb. 4 at 7:30 p.m.Tickets are on sale now for $30 for previews and $55 for the run at OilLampTheater.org.

When the sitting governor gets kicked out of office for, you guessed it, corruption, it’s time for someone new to take the throne… uh...the role. And the polls are in, it's time for an outsider. Enter bumbling brainiac Ned Newley. With bright ideas and hope in his eyes, he’s the perfect candidate - on paper. It will take a team of dedicated pollsters, campaign coordinators and more notecards than one can count, to turn him into a poised politician who can expertly avoid questions like it's his job. This knee-slappingly hilarious play will have the audience reaching across the aisle to share a laugh. Audiences may even find a renewed sense of hope for politics…okay maybe not… but they'll at least enjoy an absolutely hysterical and highly entertaining break from the news.

The cast of The Outsider includes (in alphabetical order) Andrew Bosworth (he/him, Arthur Vance); Sara DiPasquale (she/her, Rachel Parsons); Kenneth D. Johnson (he/him, A.C. Petersen); Michael Morrow (he/they, Dave Riley); Melody Rowland (she/her, Paige Caldwell); William Ryder (he/him, Ned Newley) and Jenna Steege (she/they, Louise Peakes) with understudies Sam Fain (he/they, U/S Ned Newley and U/S Arthur Vance); Stanley King (he/him, U/S A.C. Petersen); Megan Kueter (she/her, U/S Paige Caldwell and U/S Rachel Parsons); Sean Price (he/him, U/S Dave Riley), and Amy Yulish (she/her, U/S Louise Peakes).

The production team includes Scott Westerman (he/him, director); Sara Segneri (she/her, stage manager); Connor Windle (she/her, production manager); Rose Leisner (she/her, company manager); Spencer Donovan (he/him, scenic designer); Ellen Markus (she/her; properties designer); Janelle Smith (she/they; costume designer); Rachel D. Hemm (she/her, lighting designer); Alex Trinh (he/him, sound designer) and Andy Cahoon (he/him, technical director).

ABOUT PAUL SLADE SMITH, Playwright

Paul Slade Smith is an actor and playwright living in Brooklyn, New York with his wife, actress Erin Noel Grennan. He received a Helpmann Award nomination for his performance as “Willy Wonka” in the Australian premiere of the Broadway musical Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. ​Stateside, his acting credits include: the original Broadway casts of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Finding Neverland and the 2018 Lincoln Center revival of My Fair Lady; U.S. national tours of Wicked (“Doctor Dillamond”), My Fair Lady (“Jaime”) ​and The Phantom of the Opera; and productions at American Repertory Theatre, The Goodman, Steppenwolf, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, ​Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Paper Mill Playhouse, The Goodspeed, Geva Theatre Center, Asolo Repertory and Theatre Under the Stars in Houston, Texas. His TV credits include NBC's “The Blacklist” and “The Other Two” and “The Gilded Age”, both on HBO. He is the award-winning author of three plays: Unnecessary Farce, The Outsider and Theatre People, or the Angel Next Door.

ABOUT SCOTT WESTERMAN, Director

Scott Westerman is the founding artistic director of Go To Productions, a 501©3 nonprofit which develops projects that explore the nexus between live theatre and film. He created and directed the web series “Hamlet & Ophelia” which won Best Picture at the New York Film Awards, Best Web Series at the LA Film Awards and Best Mobile Series at the 2022 New Media Film Festival. Westerman has directed stage productions for The Artistic Home, Citadel Theatre, ChiArts, City Lit Theatre, Chimera Theatre Company, Beyond This Point, Barter Theatre, Stage Left Theatre, The Smithsonian Institution, American Theatre Company (Bridge) and Reverie Theatre Company. He is a member of the Screen Actors Guild, an ensemble member with The Artistic Home, represented by Gray Talent Group and a teaching artist with Lookingglass Theatre, Writers Theatre and Filament Theatre. He has an MFA from The Shakespeare Theatre Academy. As an actor, he has worked with Steppenwolf Theatre, Writers Theatre, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, Lookingglass, Northlight Theatre, The Shakespeare Theatre Company and Ford’s Theatre in DC, Everyman Theatre in Baltimore, the Warehouse Theatre in South Carolina and the Barter Theatre in Virginia to name a few. On camera credits include “Chicago Fire,” “Machine Gun Preacher” and “Prison Break.”


MORE FROM FROM OIL LAMP THEATER

Poor Behavior
April 10 – May 10, 2026

By Theresa Rebeck
Directed by Lauren Katz
Preview Performances: Friday, April 10 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, April 11 at 3 p.m.
Opening Night: Saturday, April 11 at 7:30 p.m.

Performance schedule: Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. with additional Wednesday performances Wednesday, April 15 at 11 a.m and 3 p.m.; Wednesday, April 22 at 7:30 p.m.; Wednesday April 29 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.; and Wednesday May 6 at 7:30 p.m.

A visit from old friends takes an unexpected turn when a bombshell accusation throws niceties out the window. Hospitality turns to havoc. Sanity shatters into shambles. Manners take a backseat as two couples are pushed to their limits during a weekend in the country. Will they be able to pick up the pieces over wine and muffins or will their poor behavior leave them irrevocably broken? Find out in this sharp-witted play by acclaimed playwright Theresa Rebeck.

The Last 5 Years
June 5 – July 5, 2026

Book, music and lyrics by Jason Robert Brown
Directed by Christina Ramirez
Music Directed by Amy Branahl
Preview performances: Friday, June 5 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday June 6 at 3 p.m.
Opening Night: Saturday, June 6 at 7:30 p.m.

Performance schedule: Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. with additional Wednesday performances Wednesday, June 10 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.; Wednesday June 17 at 7:30 p.m.; Wednesday, June 24 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.; and Wednesday July 1 at 7:30 p.m. There are no performances on Saturday July 4.

Straight from Broadway, Jason Robert Brown’s musical masterpiece The Last Five Years comes to Oil Lamp Theater. This widely beloved show takes audiences on the romantic rollercoaster of Jamie and Cathy as they fall in and out of love over the last five years. Told from each individual’s perspective – one chronologically and one backwards – audiences will be swept into the unique storytelling and find an anti-love story full of humor and heart. Hailed as a powerful and intimate production, this Drama Desk Award-winner for Outstanding Music is not to be missed.

I Love You Because
August 14 – September 13, 2026

Book and Lyrics by Ryan Cunningham
Music by Joshua Salzman
Directed by Scott Shallenbarger
Music Directed by Aaron Kahn
Preview Performances: Friday, Aug. 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday Aug. 15 at 3 p.m .
Opening Night: Saturday, Aug. 15 at 7:30 p.m.

Performance schedule: Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. with additional Wednesday performances Wednesday Aug. 19 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.; Wednesday, Aug. 26 at 7:30 p.m.; Wednesday September 2 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.; and Wednesday September 9 at 7:30 p.m.

Modern dating is a mess. Sometimes to find Mr. Right you need to find Mr. Wrong even if that means seeing someone stuck on their ex, awkward encounters of the intimate kind and lots of horrible coffee dates. Opposites attract in this feel-good musical that will transport audiences into the heart of your favorite guilty pleasure rom-com. Created by acclaimed musical team Ryan Cunningham and Joshua Salzman and inspired by Jane Austen’s gold-standard romance novel “Pride and Prejudice,” this delightful musical will make you fall head over heels.

Dial M for Murder
October 2 – November 1, 2026\

Adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher from the original play by Frederick Knott
Directed by Daniel King
Preview Performances: Friday, Oct. 2 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday Oct. 3 at 3 p.m.
Opening Night: Saturday, Oct. 3 at 7:30 p.m.

Performance schedule: Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. with additional Wednesday performances Wednesday, Oct. 7 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.; Wednesday Oct. 14 at 7:30 p.m.; Wednesday Oct. 21 at 11:00 a.m. and 3 p.m. and Wednesday, Oct. 28 at 7:30 p.m.

Alfred Hitchcock’s adored, chilling thriller gets a modern twist that no one will see coming. A murderous misstep begins a high-stakes hunt for the real criminal as time is quickly running out. This captivating, heart-racing play leaves audiences on the edge of their seats while the mystery of the year unravels before their eyes. Will the clues unlock the right person, or will an innocent victim pay the price? The suspense is to die for…

*All productions, dates, creatives, etc. are subject to change.


ABOUT OIL LAMP THEATER

Oil Lamp Theater is a professional nonprofit performing arts organization in Glenview, Illinois, welcoming over 10,000 patrons annually from more than 225 communities—41% from Glenview and others from across the North Shore and Chicago. Since establishing its intimate 60-seat home in downtown Glenview in 2012, Oil Lamp has grown into a cultural beacon, earning recognition as “Best Live Theatre in the North Shore” for four consecutive years.

With more than 70 productions to date, Oil Lamp is known for its dynamic Mainstage season, special events and its resilience during the pandemic, when it innovated with drive-in performances and outdoor productions. Today, the theatre continues to foster connection, broaden horizons and illuminate the human condition through professional theater and year-round programming.

In addition to its productions, Oil Lamp recently expanded with the SPARK CENTER, which offers arts education for all ages with a focus on youth. These process-driven classes inspire a lifelong love of the arts while equipping students with creativity, confidence and critical life skills.

In September 2025, Oil Lamp launched Light The Way, a transformative fundraising campaign designed to expand arts education, strengthen essential staff and establish a larger performance venue with the goal of staying in downtown Glenview. Building on its roots as a scrappy storefront, Oil Lamp is evolving into a more robust organization—without losing the intimacy and warmth that define its theater experience. Oil Lamp Theater hopes this announcement inspires excitement throughout the community. Interested community members are invited to learn more by reaching out to the theater and staying tuned as additional news is shared in the near future. For information or to support the campaign go to OilLampTheater.org/Light-the-Way or reach out to Oil Lamp at light-the-way@oillamptheater.org.

Production photo credit: Gosia Matuszewska - GosiaPhotography.com for Oil Lamp Theater’s The Outsider, now playing through February 22 at Oil Lamp Theater, 1723 Glenview Road in Glenview.

SIDE BY SIDE BY SONDHEIM VIA OIL LAMP THEATER AUGUST 15 - SEPTEMBER 14, 2025

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

OIL LAMP THEATER ANNOUNCES CAST AND CREATIVE TEAM FOR 

SIDE BY SIDE BY SONDHEIM

AUGUST 15 - SEPTEMBER 14

DIRECTED BY CHRISTINA RAMIREZ AND MUSIC DIRECTED AMY BRANAHL

Oil Lamp Theater Celebrates the Life and Works of the Late, Great, Stephen Sondheim

Oil Lamp Theater, which recently opened the Oil Lamp Theater’s SPARK CENTER for the Performing Arts, is proud to announce the cast and creative team for its next production, Side by Side by Sondheim, with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, and music by Leonard Bernstein, Mary Rodgers, Richard Rodgers and Jule Styne with continuity by Ned Sherrin. The production runs August 15 - September 14, at Oil Lamp Theater, 1723 Glenview Road. Side by Side by Sondheim is directed by Christina Ramirez and music directed by Amy Branahl. The schedule includes a preview performance Thursday, August 14 at 7:30 p.m. with the opening/press performance Friday, Aug. 15 at 7:30 p.m. The performance schedule is Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m.,Saturdays at 3 and 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. with additional Wednesday performances August 20 at 3 p.m. and September 3 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. There will be an understudy performance on Wednesday, Aug. 27 at 7:30 p.m.Tickets are on sale now for $30 for previews and $55 for the run at OilLampTheater.org.  

Side By Side By Sondheim offers a captivating journey through the wit and brilliance of one of Broadway’s greatest musical storytellers. Simple and unpretentious, this Tony Award-winning musical is a perfect introduction to the work of the contemporary master, Stephen Sondheim, and a must for diehard fans featuring songs from Gypsy, Company, West Side Story, A Little Night Music, Follies and others.

The cast of Side by Side by Sondheim includes Jacob Alexander (he/him); Michael Davis Arnold (he/him)); Abbey Loria (she/her); Alondra Rios (she/her); with understudies Julia Hope Budd (she/her); Thomas Ferro (he/him); Daria Koon (she/they) and Tommy Wells (he/him). 

The production team includes Christina Ramirez (she/her, director); Amy Branahl (she/her, music director); Andy Cahoon (he/him, technical director); Spencer Donovan (he/him, scenic designer); Taylor Pfenning (she/her, costume designer); Ellie Fey (she/her, lighting designer); Alex Trinh (he/him, sound designer); Leo Bassow (he/they, props designer); Connor Windle (he/him, production stage manager) and Sara Segneri (she/her, assistant stage manager).

ABOUT CHRISTINA RAMIREZ, director

Christina Ramirez is thrilled to be back at Oil Lamp after directing First Date last season. Ramirez serves as managing director at the award-winning Actors Training Center in Wilmette, working with actors of all ages (youth through adult) and when not directing is known for her work as a teaching artist and coach. She holds a masters in directing from Roosevelt University CCPA and a BFA in musical theatre from The Sargent Conservatory of Theatre Arts at Webster University. 

ABOUT AMY BRANAHL, music director 

Amy J. Branahl is the director of Choral Activities at New Trier High School and president of the IL-American Choral Directors Association(ACDA).  She is the music and vocal director of the Frosh/Soph musical and coaches badminton there. Branahl is a proud alum of the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana where she received her MME/BME in choral music education. With her husband Jared, they have three awesome boys. When not doing music, she loves to travel and document them by knitting, crocheting, while watching tennis/sports or going to shows. Please check out her work @craftingcourtside. 

MORE FROM FROM OIL LAMP THEATER

Gaslight (Angel Street)

October 2 - November 2

By Patrick Hamilton

Directed by Susan Gorman

Preview Performance:Thursday, Oct. 2 at 7:30 p.m.

Press Opening: Friday, Oct. 3 at 7:30 p.m.

Performance Schedule: Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30pm; Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. with additional Wednesday performances October 8 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., October 15 at 7:30 p.m. October 22 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. and October 29 at 7:30 p.m.

Audiences are invited to step into the suspenseful world of Gaslight (Angel Street), where secrets lurk in the shadows and reality blurs with deception. When Bella begins to suspect that the flickering lights and missing objects in her home aren’t just in her imagination, her world unravels into a chilling game of manipulation and control. Suspenseful, haunting and unforgettable, this is the classic mystery that inspired the 1944 Academy Award-winning film starring Charles Boyer, Ingrid Bergman, Joseph Cotten and Angela Lansbury, in her film debut, defined a genre and inspired the term “gaslighting.”

It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play

November 20 - December 28

Adapted by Joe Landry

Preview Performance:Thursday, Nov. 20 at 7:30 p.m.

Press Opening: Friday, Nov. 21 at 7:30 p.m.

Performance Schedule: Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30pm; Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. with an additional Wednesday performance, December 10 at 7:30 p.m.

This heartwarming production is the perfect way to embrace the spirit of the Holidays. Experience unrivaled cheer with Frank Capra's beloved classic, “It's a Wonderful Life,” reimagined as a captivating live radio play, complete with foley sound effects and set in Oil Lamp’s own WBFR radio studio.

Journey to Bedford Falls, where George Bailey's troubles lead him to wish he was never born. Clarence, an angel sent to intervene, steps in to make his wishes come true and George quickly learns just how many lives he has touched and just how blessed he really is.

ABOUT OIL LAMP THEATER’S SPARK CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

Oil Lamp Theater recently opened the Oil Lamp Theater’s SPARK CENTER for the Performing Arts, 1009 Waukegan Rd. The SPARK CENTER spans 2,750 square feet, featuring two spacious studios for classes and dedicated office spaces for Oil Lamp staff. The SPARK CENTER enables the expansion of Oil Lamp’s arts education programs led by top Chicagoland theater professionals for all ages and skill levels. These same studios serve as the creative center where Oil Lamp’s productions come to life as it is also a rehearsal space for Oil Lamp Theater productions taking place across the street at 1723 Glenview Road.

The inaugural offerings of the SPARK CENTER included Summer Camps and Youth and Adult Education classes with fall classes on sale now. For more information on the SPARK CENTER, go to OilLampTheater.org/spark-center.

ABOUT OIL LAMP THEATER

Oil Lamp Theater is an award-winning 60-seat storefront theater located in the heart of downtown Glenview. Keith Gerth founded the theater in February 2005, originally staging 20 productions for up to thirty-five friends and guests at night in his condo in Chicago. In March 2012, the organization was incorporated as a nonprofit and established a new location in downtown Glenview, fitted with warm décor and comfortable seating, reminiscent of a home. Oil Lamp produced 53 shows over the next seven years, reaching 10,000+ patrons per year and earning “Best Live Theater in the North Shore'' for four consecutive years. At the start of 2020, Keith Gerth retired, and shortly after, the pandemic began. Despite these major changes, Oil Lamp sprung into action and organized a drive-in for a fully-produced solo show, hosted outdoor concerts and built an outdoor venue for two full productions. Seeing the impact this made and the ability to conquer any challenge, Oil Lamp returned to indoor programming with a renewed vision. Oil Lamp now produces a dynamic Main Stage Season, Speak Easy Nights, a Women on Wednesdays series and continues investing in its connection with the community.

Oil Lamp Theater Announces the Cast for its 2025 Season Opener: THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (ABRIDGED), Jan. 24 - Feb. 16, 2025

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OIL LAMP THEATER ANNOUNCES CAST AND CREATIVE TEAM FOR 

THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (ABRIDGED)

JANUARY 24 - FEBRUARY 16, 2025

DIRECTED BY JT NAGLE

Oil Lamp Theater’s 2025 Season Begins With A Spin On The Bard’s Catalog, Written By Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess WInfield.

Oil Lamp Theater is proud to announce the cast and creative team for its first production of the 2025 season, The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged), written by Adam Long, Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield with new revisions by Daniel Singer and Jess Winfield, January 24 - February 16, at Oil Lamp Theater, 1723 Glenview Road. The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged…) is directed by JT Nagle with a preview performance Thursday, Jan. 23 at 7:30 p.m 

The performance schedule is Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 3 and 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. with additional Wednesday performances January 29 and February 12 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. and February 5 at 7:30 p.m. Single tickets are $30 for previews and $55 for the performance’s run. Subscriptions for the entire 2025 season and single tickets to The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) are on sale now at OilLampTheater.org. 

Oil Lamp Theater’s 2025 season begins with an irreverent, fast-paced romp through the Bard’s plays,The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) weaves through all of Shakespeare’s comedies, histories and tragedies in one wild ride that will leave audiences breathless and helpless with laughter.

The cast of The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged) includes Michael Ashford (he/him), Samantha Garcia (she/her) and Elizabeth Rentfro (she/her) with understudies Kyle Quinlivan (he/him); Emma Soden (she/her) and Aneesah Jemei (she/her).

The production team includes JT Nagle (he/him, director); Brenden Delcorio (he/him), stage manager); Marcus Klein (he/him) scenic designer); Ellen Markus (she/hers, properties designer); Janelle Smith (she/hers/they/them, costume designer); Hannah Wien (she/hers/they/them, lighting designer);Connor Windle (she/hers/they/them, sound designer) and Greg Korak (he/him, technical designer).

ABOUT JT NAGLE, director

JT Nagle is an actor, comedian and director from Osawatomie, Kansas. As a director, he has worked with Oil Lamp Theater (most recently directing Ripcord), Avila University, Muse of Fire and Visceral Theatre (which he co-founded). You may also have seen Nagle onstage at Oil Lamp, Remy Bumppo Theatre Company, Goodman Theatre, Kansas City Repertory Theatre, Strawdog, Shattered Globe, Heart of America Shakespeare Festival and others. His one man show, Head Stuff, was featured at Redtwist Theatre and at the KC Fringe Festival with dozens of five-star reviews that weren’t just his parents.

OIL LAMP THEATER’S 2025 SEASON

In addition to The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged), the 2025 Oil Lamp Theater season includes The Lifespan of Fact, March 14 - April 16; The Marvelous Wonderettes, June 6 - June 29; Side by Side by Sondheim, August 17 - September 7 and Gaslight (Angel Street) October 3 - 26. Five-show and four-show subscriptions for the 2025 season are on sale now at OilLampTheater.org. 

ABOUT OIL LAMP THEATER

Oil Lamp Theater is an award-winning 60-seat storefront theater located in the heart of downtown Glenview. Keith Gerth founded the theater in February 2005, originally staging 20 productions for up to thirty-five friends and guests at night in his condo in Chicago. In March 2012, the organization was incorporated as a nonprofit and established a new location in downtown Glenview, fitted with warm décor and comfortable seating, reminiscent of a home. Oil Lamp produced 53 shows over the next seven years, reaching 10,000+ patrons per year and earning “Best Live Theater in the North Shore'' for four consecutive years. At the start of 2020, Keith Gerth retired, and shortly after, the pandemic began. Despite these major changes, Oil Lamp sprung into action and organized a drive-in for a fully-produced solo show, hosted outdoor concerts and built an outdoor venue for two full productions. Seeing the impact this made and the ability to conquer any challenge, Oil Lamp returned to indoor programming with a renewed vision. Oil Lamp now produces a dynamic Main Stage Season, Speak Easy Nights, a Women on Wednesdays series and continues investing in its connection with the community.

THE REVOLUTIONISTS Via Oil Lamp Theater March 16-April 30, 2023

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THE REVOLUTIONISTS

Written by Lauren Gunderson

Directed by Elizabeth Mazur Levin

PLOT: Imagine if four badass, very real women, who lived boldly in France during the French Revolution’s Reign of Terror had met and exchanged ideas before losing their heads? What if former queen Marie Antoinette,  playwright Olympe De Gouges, assassin Charlotte Corday, and Haitian rebel Marianne Angelle, uncensored and full of ideas, grappled together with how to change the world? Oh…and it’s a comedy!

CAST (in order of appearance):

Olympe De Gouges: Hannah Hammel

Marianne Angelle: Noelle Klyce

Charlotte Corday: Ksa Curry

Marie Antoinette: Lisa Dawn

Olympe De Gouges (understudy): Abby Gilster

Marianne Angelle (understudy): Jasmine Robertson

Charlotte Corday (understudy): Maddie Powell

Marie Antoinette (understudy): Emma Soden

CREATIVE TEAM:

Director: Elizabeth Mazur Levin

Stage Manager: Reina McGonigle

Assistant Director: Ashley Greenwood

Costume Designer: Emily N. Brink

Lighting Designer: Trey Brazeal

Properties Designer: Ellen Markus

Technical Director: Greg Korak

Scenic Designer: Liz Hadden

Sound Designer: Jay Pastucha

Wig Stylist: Karen Procopio

DATES:

March 16 - April 30

SHOWTIMES:

Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 7:30pm

Saturday, Sunday: 3:00pm

PRICE:

Previews (March 16, 17, 18 3:00pm): $30 adults / $20 student

Run (March 18, 7:30pm - April 30): $45 adults / $28 student

Buy tickets HERE

The performance runs approximately two hours with an intermission.

ABOUT THE DIRECTOR:

Now serving as the Artistic Director of Oil Lamp Theater, Elizabeth Mazur Levin's Oil Lamp Theater directing credits include Now and Then, Bad Dates, Beau Jest, Love, Loss, and What I Wore, It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play (2017 & 2020), Motherhood Out Loud, and two seasons of On the Road—Oil Lamp’s touring series. She will also be directing this summer’s production of Collected Stories by Donald Margulies. Other credits include work with Theater D, Taslitz/Reichenbach Productions, Citadel Theatre, Ouroboros Big Noise Theatre, Bowen Park Theatre, Phoenix Ascending, Centerlight Sign and Voice Theatre, Weathervane Repertory, and Apple Tree Theatre. Proud graduate of Miami University (B.F.A and B.A.) and Loyola University Chicago (M.Ed.) Many thanks to the “E’s”.

"You may notice that there is a blend of historical and contemporary elements throughout [The Revolutionists] from themes, to language, to design choices. While these women are people from long ago, what they are saying and feeling is eerily current to the times in which we are living. They laugh, and share bonds, and live in the moment. If you listen closely, their struggles are similar to the plights we are facing today. These figures are smart, and witty, and authentic, relatable, and all too human."

-- Elizabeth Mazur Levin

Where Theater Welcomes You Home

Oil Lamp Theater is an award-winning sixty-seat storefront theater located in the heart of downtown Glenview. We produce six mainstage theatrical plays per year, and offer special events such as our Speak Easy Nights. When you arrive at the theater, you are personally welcomed by our friendly box office staff. Our lobby features warm decor and comfortable seating, reminiscent of a home. Our theater’s intimate space and ambitious productions connect the audience and performers to create a truly unique experience. To top it all off, we offer complimentary cookies at all mainstage shows.

OPENING: ALMOST, MAINE Via Oil Lamp Theater January 19 - February 26, 2023

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ALMOST, MAINE

Written by John Cariani

Directed by Susan Gorman

PLOT: Welcome to Almost, a quaint sort of place located in northern Maine. The town is called Almost because the residents never really got around to organizing.  One cold night, as the northern lights are set to appear, many of the residents, embodied by only four actors, fall in and out of love in the most charming, hilarious, and delightful of ways. Join us, as we journey to a place that may feel like the ends of the earth, but really can be found right in your own backyard.

CAST:

Eileen Dixon as Glory/Sandrine/Gayle/Deena/Rhonda

Whitney Minarik as Ginette/Waitress/Marvalyn/Shelly/Marci/Hope

Rio Ragazzone as Pete/Jimmy/Chad/Phil/Dave

Zach Kunde as East/Steve/Lendall/Randy/Man

Dana Pepowski as Glory/Sandrine/Gayle/Deena/Rhonda (U/S)

Daniel Vaughn Manasia as Pete/Jimmy/Chad/Phil/Dave (U/S)

Andrew Kleopfer as East/Steve/Lendall/Randy/Man (U/S)

CREATIVE TEAM:

Director: Susan Gorman

Stage Manager: Reina McGonigle

Costume Designer: Janelle L. Smith

Lighting Designer: Hannah Wein

Scenic & Props Designer: Brian Seckfort

Sound Designer: Jay Pastucha

DATES:

January 19 - February 26

SHOWTIMES:

Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 7:30pm

Saturday, Sunday: 3:00pm

PRICE:

$20 student | $30 - Previews January 19, 20, 21 (3pm)

$28 student | $45 adults - Run January 21 (7:30pm) - February 26

Click here for tickets and more information

ABOUT THE DIRECTOR:

A resident of Glenview, Susan Gorman's musical, choreography and non-musical credits span regional and educational theatre venues from Los Angeles, to Chicago and New York. Favorite non-musical productions include All My Sons, Heaven Can Wait, The Taming of the Shrew, The Children’s Hour and Tartuffe. In 2019, Susan directed the Illinois All-State Production of In The Heights and received the Broadway in Chicago IHSMTA for Best Direction for Crazy For You.

Susan Gorman: "I love this piece because there is a timeless nature to the writing. Almost, Maine is a layered, nuanced look into relationships and second chances. It never ceases to surprise me that the author, John Cariani, has interwoven in depth characters who never appear together in the play, yet have a unique and strong sense of community. Within nine small vignettes, the author has created full circle stories allowing the characters to have that 'ah-ha! lightbulb' moment, punctuated by the magnificence of the northern lights. I would like the audience to realize that whether a relationship is beginning, ending or evolving that the outcomes can potentially be positive."

About Oil Lamp Theater

More than Theater, It’s an Experience!

Oil Lamp Theater was originally founded in February 2005 where 20 productions were performed for up to 35 friends and guests in a unique venue, the founder’s condo. In March 2012, Oil Lamp Theater became a non-profit and established residence at another unique and intimate venue in downtown Glenview. Our venue now seats 60, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere for over 10,000 patrons per year to enjoy professional theater and entertainment. Between our famed complimentary cookies, delicious drinks at our bar, and top-tier productions, we know you’ll enjoy your experience at our “hidden gem” of the North Shore.

 

REVIEW: Failure: A Love Story at Oil Lamp Theater in Glenview, On Stage Through September 4, 2022

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Failure: A Love Story 

at Oil Lamp Theater in Glenview

Review

By Catherine Hellmann, Guest Critic 

“Cool space!” we noted upon our arrival at the Oil Lamp Theater in Glenview. The front lobby has a nice bar, and complementary cookies are provided for patrons during every performance. Tucked away near the library and the Glenview House Restaurant, (where we had a lovely meal served by a young man with fabulous hair who reminded me of Patrick Swayze), this is the only Professional Theatre in Glenview. 

Photo Credit for all Production Shots, Gosia Photography

I was not acquainted with Failure: A Love Story, which may have detracted from my enjoyment. The script was kind of hard to follow for those of us unfamiliar with the storyline. Having one actress play the three sisters, and their mother, (Kendal Romero) was confusing. Some of the action, especially of the Snake character on the floor, (yes, there are Pet characters. Weird.) was difficult to see. The staging needs to be considered, as the sightlines were tough to overcome for the Short of Stature. 

The Fail Family “got rid of their ‘Bottoms”” at Ellis Island when their name was shortened from “Failbotton” to just “Fail.” Owning a clock company, “A ‘Fail Clock’ is a working clock,” provides for the family. (All the clocks on the walls, and the actors mimicking clocks, reminded me of my childhood home because my Mom loved clocks.) When the parents die, the sisters take over the family business downtown. 

The cast was very energetic and enthused. I liked the chorus parts played by Jasmine Robertson, Jordan Zelvin, and Philip J. Macaluso. The Chicago storyline was cool, opening with references to the Eastland disaster of 1915 which killed 844 people, including nearly two dozen entire families. The setting was all in Chicago, and the parents perish the day of the worst shipwreck on the Great Lakes. The entire show focuses on loss and death. The Mom loses a baby in 1910 and is never the same. One of the daughters dies accidentally on her wedding day. Another sister tries to swim Lake Michigan from Chicago to Indiana (wouldn’t it be Michigan?) but disappears in the process. (“Have you ever smelled Indiana?” asks one of the characters.) 

Failure: A Love Story reminds us how “it is better to have loved and lost than to never have loved at all.” (Thank you, Alfred Lord Tennyson). 

Catherine Hellmann teaches teens by day and attends theater by night. She thinks sleeping until noon on Saturday is an accomplishment. 

FAILURE: A LOVE STORY

By Philip Dawkins

Directed by Xavier Custodio

Oil Lamp Theater's 10th Anniversary season rolls on with this whimsical romp exploring life and death in the Roaring '20s. 

PLOT: The year is 1928 and we meet the Fail sisters: Nelly, Jenny June, and Gerty. Born in that order. The sisters were bubbly, determined, and brittle. Also in that order. Set in the family home and clock shop near the Chicago River, this magical, musical fable follows the Fail sisters’ triumphs and tragedies. As with so many things in life such as blunt objects, disappearances and consumption, the Fail sisters never saw death coming. Happily ever after can’t last forever. But in this upbeat look at life’s ups and downs, we learn you can either be a grump about death, or you can live, love, and sing some catchy songs along the way.

CAST:

Trevor Earley: Mortimer Mortimer

Van Ferro: John N.

Philip J. Macaluso: Chorus Member

Kendal Romero: Gertie, Jenny June, Nelly Fail

Jasmine Robertson: Chorus Member

Jordan Zelvin: Chorus Member

Esther Fishbein: Gertie, Jenny June, Nelly Fail (U/S)

Rae Hamilton-Vargo: John & Chorus (U/S)

Katie Luchtenburg: Chorus Member (U/S)

Brooks Whitlock: Mortimer Mortimer (U/S)

CREW:

Director: Xavier M. Custodio

Rochelle Hovde: Stage Manager

Philip Dawkins: Playwright

Greg Korak: Technical Director / Carpenter

Hannah Wien: Lighting Designer

Elizabeth Monti: Costume Designer

Ellen Markus - Co-Set Designer & Prop Designer

Jay Pastucha - Co-Set Designer

SHOWTIMES:

Thursday, 8pm

Friday, 8pm

Saturday, 3pm & 8pm

Sunday, 3pm

PRICE:

$35 - Previews July 21, 22, 23 (3pm)

$45 - Run July 23 (8pm) - Sept. 4

For tickets and more: https://oillamptheater.org

ABOUT THE DIRECTOR

Xavier M. Custodio is one of the Co-Founders and Artistic Director of Visión Latino Theatre Company. He feels honored to be directing Failure: A Love Story, and getting the opportunity to work with Oil Lamp Theater to bring this fun story to life. Xavier’s directing credits includes: Y Tu Abuela, Where is She?, Baskerville: A Sherklock Holmes Mystery, Stories of Us, Fame, In The Heights, Yellow Eyes, Revolt, and Parachute Man (Assistant Director). He has been in the following productions: The Scarecrow (Minster Dodge), Rent (Benny), Godspell (John the Baptist), Man of La Mancha (Juan), Nine Lives: A Musical Web Series (BFPS Manger), Evita, Ragtime, and The Wiz.

COVID-19 POLICY

Oil Lamp Theater recommends wearing masks when not actively eating or drinking.

Masks will be required for our Saturday 3pm matinees.

About OLT

Mission Statement

Oil Lamp Theater is a professional not-for-profit theater organization that is dedicated to the presentation of traditional theater in a unique, inviting and intimate venue. Its mission is not only to stimulate interest in the performing arts but also to promote a sense of, and provide a service to, the community.

Elizabeth Mazur Levin New Artistic Director For Oil Lamp Theater

Oil Lamp Theater is excited to announce the appointment of Elizabeth Mazur Levin as its Artistic Director. A veteran of the “North Shore’s Hidden Gem” since 2012, Mazur Levin brings a fresh yet experienced perspective to Oil Lamp’s evolving artistic mission. A staple of the Glenview community since 2012, the 60-seat Oil Lamp Theater produces six shows a season, with a strong emphasis on exploring the themes of love and relationships. 

“I am tremendously excited to be stepping into the role of Artistic Director,” said Mazur Levin. “I have worked at many theaters, and what struck me about working at Oil Lamp right from the beginning was its commitment to creating a warm and inviting theatrical experience, not only for the patrons, but the artists as well.”

Mazur Levin is no stranger to Oil Lamp. She acted in the very first production of the theater when it settled down in Glenview. Her directing credits include Now & Then, Bad Dates, Beau Jest, Love, Loss, and What I Wore, It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play (2017 & 2020), Motherhood Out Loud, and two seasons of On the Road—Oil Lamp’s touring series. Now she will lead the artistic team in selecting works for its six-show season, as well as strengthening and evolving the artistic identity of Oil Lamp Theater.

"It's funny, while we haven't known each other for more than a few years, it has felt like we've known each other most of our lives,” said Jay Pastucha, Oil Lamp Theater’s Executive Director. “I believe that feeling stems from the trust I have in her, the confidence I have in her artistic vision, and the passion she has for Oil Lamp Theater.”

A Chicago actor herself, Mazur Levin has performed all over the Midwest as well as the East Coast.  She holds degrees in theater from Miami University (B.F.A. and B.A.) and Loyola University Chicago (M.Ed.). 

When discussing her vision for the future, Mazur Levin was quick to reference Oil Lamp Theater’s unique aesthetic and intimate atmosphere.

“I love walking into our space and providing an excellent artistic experience for both the theater goer and the artist,” she said. “As Artistic Director, I plan to take my years of experience here to meld the past with the future. I am committed to providing a season that not only entertains, but tells stories with, about, and from a variety of viewpoints. We want our audiences to think, engage, and feel in a shared theatrical experience.”

Oil Lamp Theater was originally founded in February 2005, and in March 2012, became a non-profit and established residence at a unique and intimate venue in downtown Glenview. The venue seats 60 and provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere for over 10,000 patrons per year to enjoy professional theater and entertainment. Between its famed complimentary cookies, delicious drinks at our bar, inviting and comfortable lobby, and top-tier productions, an evening at Oil Lamp Theater proves this venue is where theater feels like home.