Great Things at Goodman: Thornton Wilder’s The Matchmaker Opening and Last Call For 2666

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar

Spring is in the air and stellar shows are springing up all over town. The Goodman's got Thornton Wilder’s The Matchmaker opening this week, and the five and a half hour epic, 2666 is closing the 20th. Come ChiIL out at The Goodman Theatre, Chicago. 

*The Matchmaker is recommended for audiences age 12 and older.*

The Matchmaker returns to the city of its birth in a new production at Goodman Theatre directed by Artistic Associate Henry Wishcamper. Cunning, crafty and thoroughly modern, Dolly Gallagher Levi knows a good catch when she sees one. So when the wealthy Horace Vandergelder hires her to find him a wife, Dolly doesn’t need to look far to find his perfect mate. The Matchmaker is an uproarious romp that reminds us to embrace the unexpected in our lives. Before the world fell in love with Hello, Dolly!, there was The Matchmaker.

March 5 - April 10, 2016 In the Albert 
Approximate running time: 2 hours and 40 minutes with one intermission

Tony Award nominee Kristine Nielsen (Dolly Gallagher Levi) and Chicago favorite and 3Arts Award winner Allen Gilmore (Horace Vandergelder) lead a diverse company of acclaimed talents and rising stars: Theo Allyn, Behzad Dabu,  Lawrence E. DiStasi, Marilyn Dodds Frank, Sydney Germaine, Marc Grapey, Anita Hollander, Ronobir Lahiri, Elizabeth Ledo, Postell Pringle and Ron E. Rains. 

*This production contains adult language and descriptions of extreme sexual violence. Recommended for mature audiences only.*

Got your tickets to see 2666 yet?! Must close March 20!

Don’t miss Robert Falls’ and Seth Bockley’s critically acclaimed stage adaptation of Roberto Bolaño’s 2666, which the Chicago Sun-Times calls “one of those landmark moments in Chicago theater history.” 

“Proves... the Goodman is not only preeminent but a vital source of ideas on the evolution of theater as an art form”— NEWCITY

Extended by popular demand through March 20!

This epic adaptation of Roberto Bolaño’s internationally acclaimed novel, named the “Best Book of 2008” by Time Magazine and winner of the National Book Critics Circle Award, is a not-to-be-missed theatrical event.

A soaring adaptation of Chilean-born author Roberto Bolaño’s masterpiece, 2666 begins with a group of hapless European academics hot on the trail of an elusive author—a search that leads them into the dark heart of a Mexican border city where the murders of hundreds of women remain unsolved. This story gives way to a surprising, panoramic portrait of the 20th century that spans more than 100 years and jumps from Spain to Mexico to Germany and beyond, illuminating the power of literature to reflect and transform the world. An unflinching look at the nature of evil, 2666is an ambitious new work unlike any other theatrical experience.

Limited seats remain. Buy now to secure your seat for this epic theatrical adventure before tickets sell out. 

BEST REMAINING AVAILABILITY

Wednesday, March 16 | 6:30pm

Thursday, March 17 | 6:30pm

Friday, March 18 | 6:30pm

The running time of 2666 is five and a half hours total (four hours and 45 minutes, plus three intermissions).

ACT OUT CLOSING: Chi, IL Live Shows On Our Radar-- Fall Favorites Closing Soon #theatre #reviews

FALL 2014 THEATER HIGHLIGHTS

Via The League of Chicago Theatres

Fall 2014 will see Chicago continue to produce some of the most exciting theater in the country.  Offerings from the city’s more than 200 producing theaters includes a range of special fall programming, featuring everything from the latest musicals to highly anticipated world premieres.   

Be sure to check back with ChiIL Live Shows like we vote in Chi, IL... early and often. We're passionate about Chicago Theatre and we review everything from the big Broadway in Chicago touring extravaganzas to Chicago's vital and thriving storefront scene.

We've marked some of our fall top picks below in red. Catch them while you can. Many are closing soon. We're your source for fall closings, holiday openings, theatre reviews, news, video interviews, and ticket giveaways. Follow us on Facebook, like our Facebook Page, follow us on Twitter, and Google + so you don't miss out.

For a comprehensive list of Chicago productions including a Fall Theatre Guide, visit the League of Chicago website, www.chicagoplays.com.  Discounted tickets are available at www.hottix.org or at the three Hot Tix half-price ticket locations: across from the Chicago Cultural Center at Expo72 (72 E. Randolph); in the Water Works Visitor Information Center (163 E. Pearson); and the newest location at Block Thirty Seven, Shops at 108 N. State. Hot Tix offers half-price tickets to more than 200 Chicago area theatres, full price tickets to all Ticketmaster events including concerts and sports, and Play Money gift certificates.

“This fall will bring a brand new theater season to Chicago, and true to the reputation of Chicago theater, the season promises to be exciting, creative, and unique.  Theaters will present works ranging from family-friendly shows to hard-hitting dramas, and Chicago remains a leader in developing and producing new works,” says Deb Clapp, Executive Director of the League of Chicago Theatres. “We are anticipating a triumphant season filled with incomparable quality and variety.”

The following is a selection of notable work playing in Chicago throughout the fall:

New works and adaptations include:
*Goodman Theatre brings back Noah Haidle’s hit new work Smokefall, September 20 – October 26, 2014. 

ChiIL Live Shows caught opening night of Smokefall this season and last and we were blown away by this production. Smokefall is an absolute must see. I had the great pleasure of seeing it the first time around with my dad, who is a twin. It's a great production to see with relatives, as it added an extra layer to this complex and compelling family drama. Smokefall gives "Family Tree" and "baggage" a whole new twist! This production is spot on about the things that truly matter and so funny you'll hardly notice as characters'  wit and wisdom seep in and get under your skin. Highly recommended.
  
Isaac’s Eye, a new work by Lucas Hnath reimagines the world of a young Isaac Newton plays at Writers Theatre at Books on Vernon, September 2 – December 7, 2014.  

Musicals include:
The world premiere musical Amazing Grace, based on the awe-inspiring true story, plays at the Bank of America Theatre, October 9 – November 2, 2014.

Griffin Theatre Company presents Titanic, the Tony Award-winning musical re-imaged and re-written for the stage in its first major US Production, October 18 – December 7, 2014

*The hit modern musical Avenue Q continues at The Mercury Theater, 3745 N. Southport Ave, through October 26, 2014.

Here at ChiIL Live Shows, Avenue Q is one of our all time favorite musicals, and The Mercury Theater production is every bit as wicked and witty as the Broadway version. If you still haven't seen it, what are you waiting for? Go already! This should be mandatory viewing for all older teens, recent high school and college graduates, and everyone who has ever struggled to make ends meet, had quirky neighbors, lived the urban dream, or loved muppets in childhood. Do note--these puppets are raunchy, irreverent, cynical and not particularly kid appropriate. That said, they'll crack you up and rock your reality. Highly recommended.

*Black Ensemble Theatre brings back At Last: A Tribute to Etta James, featuring 15 of Etta James’ biggest hits, October 24 – December 28, 2014.

BET's remount of At Last: A Tribute to Etta James, is a pure delight. They don't dilute the truth, and feature the tough times, addictions and attitude along with the award winning genius that is Etta James. Her multifaceted personality and life long career are creatively played by multiple Ettas of various ages. The vocal talent at Black Ensemble Theatre is stunning, and entirely impressive. Highly recommended.

Dramatic works include:
Steppenwolf Theatre Company presents a compelling new drama The Night Alive by Conor McPherson, directed by Henry Wishcamper, September 18 – November 16, 2014.

*Shakespeare’s King Lear, at Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier. Directed by Barbara Gaines and featuring Chicago favorite Larry Yando in the title role, September 9 – November 9, 2014.

Two words--Larry Yando! Don't let the King Lear title fool you, Yando is King Midas and his name is box office gold! This production is well worth seeing, as Yando embodies the complexities of Lear with panache. He's at once detestable yet charmingly pitiful. Chicago Shakespeare keeps the set minimalist and the costumes modern. The stage rain and thunderous clashes are particularly evocative and amazing. Recommended.

My Name is Asher Lev, adapted by Aaron Posner from the novel by Chaim Potok, premieres at TimeLine Theatre Company at Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave, through October 18, 2014.

The classic Arthur Miller drama All My Sons performs at Raven Theatre in Edgewater. September 16 – November 15, 2014.


About Chicago theater
Chicago theater is the leader in the U.S. with more than 250 theaters throughout Chicagoland, comprising a rich and varied community ranging from storefront, non-union theaters to the most renowned resident theaters in the country, including 5 which have been honored with Regional Tony Awards, and the largest touring Broadway organization in the nation. Chicago’s theaters serve 5 million audience members annually and have a combined budget of more than $250 million. Chicago produces and/or presents more world premieres annually than any other city in the nation. In 2009-10 alone Chicago theater companies produced more than 130 world premiere productions and adaptations. Each year Chicago theaters send new work to resident theaters across the country, to Broadway, and around the world. 

The League of Chicago Theatres’ Mission Statement
The League of Chicago Theatres is an alliance of theaters which leverages its collective strength to promote, support and advocate for Chicago's theater industry locally, nationally and internationally. The League of Chicago Theatres Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the art of theater in the Chicago area through audience development and support services for theaters and theater professionals.

For a comprehensive list of Chicago productions, visit the League of Chicago website, www.chicagoplays.com.  Discounted tickets are available at www.hottix.org



CLOSING: Babes With Blades Witch Slap!

Act Out:

Chicago Theatre openings, closings, reviews, giveaways, ticket sale dates and more. Chi, IL Live Shows on stage and on our radar.

FALL 2014: Witch Slap!

by Jeff Goode

WORLD PREMIERE!

We've been promoting this show since the first read through and have heard great things. Sadly, we've been shooting travel features out of state and we've been swamped since they opened and haven't made it over there to review. Still, check it out if you can. We are long time fans of Babes With Blades and so stoked that they call Chicago home. We've seen them tackle some amazing works over the years.

Like Hunger Games and women as protagonists who don't just lay around like the Disney coma princesses, waiting to be rescued?   Come check out some real life women who kick booty with sword fights & stage combat.  

Here at ChiIL Live Shows, Babes With Blades have been favorites of ours for years.   Their shows are aimed at adults, but my tweens adore them, too!

“Under Delia Ford’s direction, the actors take on their roles with distinction…Kimberly Logan (Crone) anchors the show with cackling wisdom…(Stefanie) Johnsen nails the physical comedy…Jennifer L. Mickelson garners laughs from her stoic presence…Loren Jones charms as the high-strung-witch-in-training” – Katy Walsh, The Fourth Walsh

Mass hysteria grips a colonial town as public witch hunts pit brother against brother. But when local witches attempt to band together to stop the madness, they quickly discover that sister against sister can be far more wicked.

Directed by Delia Ford*
Violence Design by Maureen Yasko*

“…The cast assembled by Delia Ford for this Babes With Blades production swaps vaudeville chat with precision timing…” – Mary Shen Barnidge, Windy City Times

SHOW DATES:
RUN: 8/17 – 9/20, Thurs – Sat at 8pm, Sun at 3:30pm

On the West Stage at the Raven Theatre Complex
6157 N. Clark St., Chicago

Get your tickets HERE! Or call to reserve: 773-904-0391

Check out our Promos & Events page for special deals!

CAST: Alison Dornheggen* (Jezebella), Stefanie Johnsen (Minerva), Loren Jones (Novella), Kimberly Logan* (Crone), Morgan Manasa* (Goody Blunt), Jennifer L. Mickelson* (Widow), Patti Moore (Sylvia)

STAFF: Kimberly Morris* (Costume Design), Justin Castellano (Lighting Design), Lindsey Miller (Stage Manager), Kait Mikitin (Production Manager), Claire Nelson (Props Design), Mason Absher (Sound Design), Nicci Schumacher (Scenic Design/Technical Director)

* denotes Babes With Blades company member

Witch Slap is the winner of the 2013-14 Joining Sword & Pen competition, sponsored since its inception by Fight Master David Woolley, SAFD. 

**(COINCIDENCE ALERT: We just saw David Woolley in the audience and spoke with him at the after party last night at the press opening of King Lear at Chicago Shakespeare. You may recognize him from The Swordsmen, frequent favorites on the Bristol Renaissance Faire and the Ohio Ren Faire circuits. We've been covering them for years.)

Shows On Our Radar: The Hypocrites Tennessee Williams Project Closing & Into The Woods Just Opened

One of our favorite troupes for consistently creative, fabulous fare is The Hypocrites.  They've currently got one show closing and one that just opened that are high on our must see list. Both are Jeff Recommended.

Two shows now playing from The Hypocrites

Tennessee Williams Project, now-March 2nd Chopin Theater

Into the Woods, now-March 30th Mercury Theater.

Tennessee Williams Project Three One Acts Directed by Matt Hawkins Only two weekends left--Must end March 2nd "HIGHLY RECOMMENDED...Hypocrites' Tennessee Williams Project is ticket to trio of rare sidetrips" Chicago Sun-Times "The terrific ensemble...morph into multiple roles for this Tennessee Williams' showcase...THE TENNESSEE WILLIAMS PROJECT is three plays for the price of one. It's a unique opportunity to experience TW from three rarely produced angles. Highly Recommended" Fourth Walsh "Director Matt Hawkins provides a deft touch" NewCity "Intoxicating journey through modern master's lesser-knowns" Chicago Theater Beat "The Tennessee Williams Project will appeal to all types of theatergoers with its unique three-stage setup and certainly spur a number of conversations among Williams' fans both casual and well acquainted." Windy City-Times Remaining 7 Performances at Chopin Theater: Friday 2/21/2014 7:30 PM Saturday 2/22/2014 7:30 PM Sunday 2/23/2014 3:00 PM Monday 2/24/2014 7:30 PM Friday 2/28/2014 7:30 PM Saturday 3/1/2014 7:30 PM Sunday 3/2/2014 3:00 PM   Book your Tennessee Williams Project tickets here     Into the Woods Mercury Theater now-March 30th

 "ambitious, inventive, remarkably 

fresh take on Sondheim..." 

TimeOut Chicago 

"clever...delightful...high-pitched energy"

Chicago Sun-Times

"laudably ambitious, hugely enthusiastic and admirably sung...The commitment is full and the stakes high."

Chicago Tribune  

"ten talented, personable actors perform the hell out of a great work of theatrical art, supported by a sharp offstage band." Chicago Reader

"A revelatory 'Into the Woods'"  

Chciago Theater Addict

"...sounds great, looks great, and is overflowing with imagination and resourcefulness. It's the kind of production that will make you want to listen to the soundtrack immediately so you can relive The Hypocrites' bold choices, because once upon a time isn't enough."

Chicago Theater Beat

"...In the hands of a wonderfully talented cast and a whiz of a director - The Hypocrites theater company has cobbled together a magical production" On the Aisle  

"Anyone that questions the creative force of Chicago storefront theaters have to look no further than The Hypocrites ingenious re-imagining of Stephen Sondheim's 1986 musical Into The Woods...That incredible vision and talent is what makes The Hypocrites part of the fabric the makes Chicago theatre a beacon for others to follow." ShowBiz Chicago   

"The Hypocrites have found a way to change a story as we know it and turn it upside down on its head. They continue to be one of the most exciting companies in Chicago theatre. The show is inventive, wildly funny and unlike any other journey 'Into the Woods' you are likely to take."

Rock Chicago 

"a joyous, splendid revival by the very talented folks of The Hypocrites." Chicago Theatre Review

"The Hypocrites' 'Into the Woods' is a wonder...with some terrific voices and a small but sturdy cohort of behind-the-scenes musicians-that never loses sight of the Hypocrites' signature sense of humor."  NewCity 

"People who would like this show are people who like catchy songs about Giants, feeling a lot of different feelings at the same time, and people disappearing behind balloons. People should go see the show because the acting is great and so is the set... It is funny and it makes you feel like you are part of a fairy tale that has gone wrong, but you know that you won't actually get hurt." Ada Grey, Age 9

Performance schedule now-March 30th:

Thursdays at 7:30pm

Fridays at 8pm

Saturdays at 2pm and 8pm

Sundays at 3pm

Visit http://mercurytheaterchicago.com/

or call 773-325-1700 for tickets for

Into the Woods

ACT OUT--THEATRE OPENINGS & CLOSINGS

Via League of Chicago Theatres:

Show Openings

50 Shades! The Musical - Broadway In Chicago

Lord of the Flies - Steppenwolf Theatre *High on ChiIL Live Shows' must see list/tween & teen friendly

The Odd Couple (Female Version) - Greenhouse Theater Center

The Rocky Horror Show - pH Productions

The Sovereign Statement - The Neo-Futurists

We Will Rock You - Broadway in Chicago *ChiIL Live Shows will be there to review opening night.   Queen is both of my kids' all time favorite band.   So, we can NOT wait for this one!

The Wedding Singer - Haven Theatre

Show Closings

4000 Miles - Northlight Theatre  *Highly recommended.   Poignant and powerful piece about grief, recovery, friendship and family across generations.

9 to 5 - Chicago Heights Drama Group

Cloud 9 - The Theatre Conservatory at Roosevelt University's Chicago College of Performing Arts

The Crownless King - The House Theatre of Chicago *Oh so highly recommended!  One of our favs this season.   Do not miss this one.   If you've been putting it off, GO already!

How We Got On - Citadel Theatre

Pullman Porter Blues - Goodman Theatre  *Pure delight, and consummate historical story telling.   We adored the full blown train set, and the acting and singing is supurb!   This train's leaving the station October 27th, so go already.

To Master the Art - Broadway Playhouse

We highly recommend checkin' out the League of Chicago Theatre's Main site here.

ACT OUT CLOSING: Cirque Shanghai: Dragon’s Thunder Photo Filled Feature & Discount Tickets #originalshowshots #circus #review

Haven't caught Cirque Shanghai:  Dragon's Thunder yet?   Go already.   The circus is leaving town after Labor Day!

**ChiIL Mama's Readers can ChiIL Out with $10.00 off adult Emperor’s Court tickets to Cirque Shanghai: Dragon’s Thunder at Navy Pier with the code below!**

We caught them opening night and had a blast!   Cirque Shanghai is

an annual circus spectacle we look forward to every summer and a heart pounding, breathtaking display of circus arts that's fun for all ages.   You can't beat Dragon's Thunder for the price.   Cirque Shanghai is light on the wallet and heavy on the thrills.   Bring some multicultural magic to your summer.




Check out ChiIL Mama's original Dragon's Thunder photos above

ChiIL Tips:   Go on a Wednesday or Saturday night and catch a free Navy Pier fireworks show every week!   We also recommend buying the glossy, photo filled program.   The performers will sign it after the show and it'll be a fun keepsake for the kids to reminisce over.

As many times as we've seen the motorcycles and the globe of doom, my kids still love it and my daughter is always jazzed to see the girl among them.   She's an inspiration and a great role model of rockin' grrrrl power, and the spark for my child's enduring obsession with motorcycles. 

  

The high-flying acrobats of Cirque Shanghai are back with the all-new “Dragon’s Thunder,” happening all summer long at the Pepsi® Skyline Stage® at Navy Pier. Featuring the sounds of traditional Chinese “Dragon Drums,” this year’s show is bigger, better and more fun than ever. 

Dragon’s Thunder” at Chicago’s Navy Pier^® Pepsi^® Skyline Stage, 600 E. Grand Ave. Hailed by the Chicago Sun-Times as “….a circus everyone can feel good about,” 

Cirque Shanghai: Dragon’s Thunder must close on September 2, 2013 (Labor Day).

“Cirque Shanghai” has regular performances as follows:

• Wednesday at 2, 6 and 8 p.m. 
• Thursday at 2 and 8 p.m.
• Friday at 2, 7 and 9 p.m.
• Saturday at 2, 6 and 8 p.m.
• Sunday at 2 and 4 p.m.

 Final performances will be Monday, September 2 (Labor Day) at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Click here to purchase tickets and use offer code BLOG for $10.00 off adult Emperor’s Court tickets. Offer good through September 2, 2013. Kids tickets just $15.50 all summer long!

Check out The magic of “Cirque Shanghai: Dragon’s Thunder!"

Praising Cirque Shanghai: Dragon’s Thunder, Chicago Parent proclaims “… this year’s show ramps up the entertainment and thrills from previous years.”

Cirque Shanghai: Dragon’s Thunder will run through September 2, 2013 (Labor Day) rain or shine, at the Navy Pier® Pepsi® Skyline Stage, the 1,500-seat, canopied, open-air theater on Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. Tickets are $15.50 - $29.50 and are available via Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000 or www.ticketmaster.com/shanghai.

“Cirque Shanghai: Dragon’s Thunder” is a spectacle for audiences of all ages, featuring performers direct from China who are leaders in their craft of tumbling, juggling, balancing and more. With a total of 36 troupe members, “Dragon’s Thunder” is the largest Cirque Shanghai cast to ever visit the U.S.

This year’s production features an incredible line up of awe-inspiring acts, including “The Chinese Flex Bar,” the heart stopping “Gravity Swings,” and the awesome sounds of the traditional Chinese “Dragon Drums.” For the first time in Cirque Shanghai’s North American engagement, the traditional Chinese drums will be an integral part of the production.