Chicago Shakespeare Theater Presents Henry V September 6–October 6, 2024

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Henry V

September 6–October 6, 2024

Artistic Director Edward Hall directs a powerhouse ensemble cast in Shakespeare’s epic tale of war and power

Chicago Shakespeare Theater presents William Shakespeare’s Henry V, staged by Artistic Director Edward Hall in the Courtyard Theater, September 6–October 6. Elijah Jones makes his Chicago Shakespeare Theater debut in the title role, leading a company that also features Scott Aiello, Donté Bonner, Ronald L. Conner, Rachel Crowl, Alejandra Escalante, Sean Fortunato, Kate Fry, Courtney Rikki Green, Gregory Linington, Jaylon Muchison, Adam Poss, and Demetrios Troy. 

Following his groundbreaking production of Richard III last season, Artistic Director Edward Hall opens the fall season with Henry V. Shakespeare’s tale of power and youthful ambition examines the realities of war and nationalism at its most dangerous and seductive. From the evocative opening line, “O for a Muse of Fire,” the play includes some of Shakespeare’s most famous speeches and stirring poetry. 

“Henry V remains one of the most revealing plays about war, nationalism, the consequences of both, and our need for common causes to bind us together,” said Hall. “It is uncompromising in its honesty—a real world story about ideas that remain ever-present in our lives. There has never been a more prescient moment to explore our reflex for conflict through the prism of a story that contains some of the greatest writing in the English language.”

Elijah Jones makes his Chicago Shakespeare debut as the young King Henry V. He is a recent graduate of the Juilliard School, where he performed the title role in Coriolanus, Orsino in Twelfth Night, and Leontes in The Winter’s Tale. His other credits include Richard II at The Public Theater, The Rolling Stone at Lincoln Center Theater, Airness and As You Like It at Chautauqua Theater Company, and Macbeth, The Many Deaths of Nathan Stubblefield, and A Christmas Carol at Actors Theatre of Louisville. 

Jones leads an ensemble cast that includes both actors familiar to the Chicago Shakespeare stage and exciting debut performances. 

Scott Aiello (Duke of Salisbury/Williams/Nym) was recently seen as Clarence and Stanley in CST’s Richard III, and other credits include an acclaimed performance as Eddie in Shattered Globe Theatre’s A View From the Bridge. 

Donté Bonner (Duke of Exeter) makes his Chicago Shakespeare debut, with credits including Romeo and Juliet on Broadway, Occupied Territories at 59E59, and War at Yale Repertory Theatre.

Ronald L. Conner (Bardolph/Duke of Orleans) was recently seen as Lord Capulet in Short Shakespeare! Romeo and Juliet and Sir Toby Belch in Twelfth Night at CST. 

Rachel Crowl (Fluellen/Grey) makes her Chicago Shakespeare debut, with recent credits including Between Two Knees at Yale Repertory Theatre, The Swindlers at Baltimore Repertory Theatre, and work at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival.

Alejandra Escalante (Dauphin of France/Bishop of Ely/Nell) returns to CST after appearing as Mariana in Measure for Measure and Helena in All’s Well That Ends Well, with other recent credits including The Cherry Orchard at Goodman Theatre.

Sean Fortunato (King of France/Erpingham/Duke of York) has performed in over two dozen Chicago Shakespeare productions, most recently as the Duchess of York and Lord Rivers in Richard III; other recent credits include Damn Yankees at Marriott Theatre and Young Frankenstein at Mercury Theater.

Kate Fry (Duke of Westmoreland/ Monsieur le Fer/Alice) has many Chicago Shakespeare credits, including As You Like It, Henry IV Parts 1 and 2, and The Merchant of Venice and recently seen in acclaimed performances in The Cherry Orchard at Goodman Theatre and Birthday Candles at Northlight Theatre.

Courtney Rikki Green (Katherine, Princess of France/Lad) makes her Chicago Shakespeare debut, with recent credits including Romeo and Juliet at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and work with Drunk Shakespeare Chicago.

Gregory Linington (Archbishop of Canterbury/Bates/Governor of Harfleur) was seen in CST’s in Measure for Measure, after 12 years with the Oregon Shakespeare Festival.

Jaylon Muchison (Mountjoy/Scroop) makes his Chicago Shakespeare debut, with recent credits including The Royale at American Players Theatre and Much Ado About Nothing and King Lear with the Illinois Shakespeare Festival.

Adam Poss (Constable of France/Cambridge) returns to CST after appearing as Antonio in Twelfth Night and Angelo in Measure for Measure, and most recently on Broadway in Patriots.

Demetrios Troy (Pistol/Duke of Burgundy) most recently appeared as King Edward IV and Richmond in Richard III, with many other CST credits including King Charles III, Henry V, and Julius Caesar.

Understudies include Kevin Aoussou, Emma Jo Boyden, Keenan Odenkirk, and Faiz Siddique.

In addition to Hall, the creative team of Henry V includes Scenic and Costume Designer Michael Pavelka, Musical Director, Arrangements, and Original Music by Jonathan Trenchard,, Lighting Designer Marcus Doshi, Sound Designer Emily Hayman, Voice and Dialect Coach Scott Aiello, Assistant Director Sola Thompson, Assistant Lighting Designer Daphne Manuela Agosin Orellana, Assistant Sound Designer Forrest Gregor, Directing Apprentice Philippa Lawford, Casting Director Bob Mason, Production Stage Manager Jinni Pike, Assistant Stage Manager Danny Fender, and Production Assistant Caroline Uy.

More information at www.chicagoshakes.com/henryv or on social media @chicagoshakes.  

PERFORMANCE DETAILS:

Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. (except September 24)

Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Thursdays at 7:00 p.m.

Fridays at 7:00 p.m.

Saturdays at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. (no matinee September 7)

Sundays at 2:00 p.m.

Chicago Shakespeare strives to make its facility and performances accessible to all patrons. Accessible seating, assistive listening devices, large-print and Braille programs, and sensory tools are available at every performance. Enhanced performances include:

ASL interpreted performance – Friday, September 27, 2024, 7:00 p.m.

All dialogue and lyrics are translated into American Sign Language by two certified interpreters

Audio-described performance with optional touch tour – Sunday, September 29, 2024, 2:00 p.m.

A program that provides spoken narration of a play’s key visual elements for patrons who are blind or have low vision. Touch Tours provide patrons the opportunity to experience, firsthand, a production’s design elements.

Projected Spanish translated performance - Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at 7:00 p.m.

A text display of the words of the play, translated into Spanish, synced live with the dialogue.

Open captioning – Wed, October 2, 2024, 1:00 & 7:00 p.m.

A text display of the words and sounds heard during a play, synced live with the action onstage.

Creative Team

Edward Hall Director 

Michael Pavelka Scenic and Costume Designer

Jonathan Trenchard Musical Director, Arranger, and Composer 

Marcus Doshi Lighting Designer 

Emily Hayman Sound Designer

Scott Aiello Voice and Dialect Coach

Sola Thompson Assistant Director Daphne Manuela Agosin Orellana Assistant Lighting Designer

Forrest Gregor Assistant Sound Designer

Philippa Lawford Directing Apprentice

Bob Mason Casting 

Jinni Pike Production Stage Manager 

Danny Fender Assistant Stage Manager Caroline Uy Production Assistant

Cast

Scott Aiello

Donté Bonner

Ronald L. Conner

Rachel Crowl

Alejandra Escalante

Elijah Jones

Sean Fortunato

Kate Fry

Courtney Rikki Green

Gregory Linington

Jaylon Muchison

Adam Poss

Demetrios Troy

ABOUT CHICAGO SHAKESPEARE THEATER

A Regional Tony Award recipient, Chicago Shakespeare Theater (CST) produces a bold and innovative year-round season—plays, musicals, world premieres, family productions, and theatrical presentations from around the globe—alongside education programming for students, teachers, and lifelong learners, and engagement with communities across the city. Located on Chicago’s iconic Navy Pier, CST’s campus features the Jentes Family Courtyard Theater, The Yard, and the Carl and Marilynn Thoma Upstairs Studio. Onstage, in classrooms and neighborhoods across the city, and in venues around the world, Chicago Shakespeare is a multifaceted cultural center—inviting audiences, artists, and community members to share powerful stories that connect and inspire..

Rehearsals are now underway (pictured above). I'll be out for the press opening September 13th, so check back soon for my full review at ChiLLiveShows.com

REVIEW: Circus HAMLET Via The New York Circus Project at Chicago's Studebaker Theater Through August 18th, 2024

This Tragedy's a Triumph!

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Circus meets Shakespeare in cutting-edge production 

Geared toward adults but recommended for all ages 4+

90 minutes/no intermission

REVIEW

By Bonnie Kenaz-Mara

A 90 minute circus arts filled Hamlet?! Yes please! Last night I had the pleasure of ChiILin’ at New York Circus Project’s Hamlet, at Studebaker Theater, and I was absolutely gobsmacked by this powerful production. This is the first Chicago visit for The New York Circus Project, and we fervently hope it won't be the last! I belatedly found out about the production, and I'm so happy they were able to squeeze me in to review on this short run. Get thee to the Studebaker. Fans of Circus Arts, Shakespeare, and actors performing super human feats, don't miss this! Highly recommended. ★★★★ Four out of four stars.

Here at ChiIL Mama, we're no strangers to circus arts or Shakespeare. Since 2008, we've been covering Cirque du Soleil, Ringling, and other modern and traditional circuses from around the world, and right here at home. In fact, my son and daughter were cast in numerous youth circus arts show at Chicago's Actors Gymnasium, and were on the circus performance team at Circesteem. They also took classes at MSA and Aloft. So, I can attest to the talent and skills of this company. I've also been a theatre critic for 16 years, reviewing a plethora of professional productions of The Bard's works, including multiple Hamlets. This one is completely unique, highly entertaining, and a must see!

 

We were wowed by the aerial arts, partner acro, and sheer variety of circus skills rolled into this fast paced production. The hour and a half flew by. Everything was stellar from the actors, to the set, choreography, lighting, and song choices. The music spanned decades, from classics to contemporary, and added much. I want the playlist! 

My only criticism is that I wish the dialogue was as loud as the music. We were about halfway back on the main floor, and when the actors were upstage or turned away, it was a struggle to hear all the lines. This may be a venue issue. As much as we adore the art deco charm of The Studebaker Theatre, it was built in 1898... Still, it seemed as if the actors were not wearing mics, or if they were, they need to be turned up. It's a cavernous space to project in with only stage amplification! 

Overall, this is an excellent pick for multigenerational fun. All the circus skills are hella impressive. And we were completely entranced by Ophelia’s gorgeous, water contortion death scene! This abridged version retains all the key plot points, famous lines, and favorite characters, while keeping the action flowing fast. Yes, everyone dies, so don't expect a lighthearted fluff piece of a circus show. Still, it's a great, fast paced, playful way to introduce the littles (and Bard-wary adults, too) to a love of Shakespeare. Flippin' fantastic! ★★★★ Four out of Four Stars 

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).

“ …dramatizing the inner conflict of the characters through dance and circus created a fundamentally different viewing experience than most productions of the play…utterly creative and original” (Columbia Bwog)

“Breaking the boundaries of art forms and time, ‘Hamlet’ ultimately traversed the lines of what a Shakespeare play should look like—revealing an undiscovered terrain within the arts world waiting for interdisciplinary talents to fill it with color.” (Columbia Spectator)

“...immensely effective in forwarding the tense, psychological themes at the heart of Hamlet”(The Blue and White)

The New York Circus Project brings HAMLET, an innovative, circus-infused retelling of the Shakespearean classic to Chicago, IL as the final stop in its premier touring season.

HAMLET upends what audiences expect of Shakespeare by blending theater with circus arts to arrive at a unique iteration of a well-known tragedy. The production’s fast-paced, abbreviated script is balanced with circus acts that change the story’s tempo and allow for deeper exploration of the internal, emotional conflict at hand. 

Hamlet’s delirium materializes in an explosive group acrobatic tableau, Ophelia’s life flashes before her eyes during a last-breath contortion performance in a water filled basin, and the ghost of Hamlet’s father’s famous monologue is reimagined as a solo aerial dance act.

By oscillating between scenes with dialogue and circus performance, the lines between realism and internal monologue blur. Comparable to the use of song to emphasize emotional or narrative beats in musical theater, this interdisciplinary approach fills Shakespeare’s Hamlet with new color and life.

HAMLET opens at Studebaker Theater from August 15th to August 18th. 

Tickets are on sale now! Website: newyorkcircusproject.org

Evening performances are at 8pm, with matinees on Saturday and Sunday. 

Tickets are priced between $49 and $79.

New York Circus Project is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to producing contemporary circus shows in New York City and the United States, using acrobatics as a medium for presenting classic texts in a visually striking and unique way. Additionally, New York Circus Project produces free-to-the-public, family friendly circus cabaret performances on the streets of New York City. 

SAVE THE DATES: TONY AWARD-WINNER ROBERT SEAN LEONARD MAKES HIS GOODMAN THEATRE DEBUT IN BETRAYAL WITH HELEN HUNT AND IAN BARFORD, DIRECTED BY SUSAN V. BOOTH FEBRUARY 8 – MARCH 16, 2025

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TONY AWARD-WINNER ROBERT SEAN LEONARD MAKES HIS GOODMAN THEATRE DEBUT IN 

BETRAYAL

WITH HELEN HUNT AND IAN BARFORD, DIRECTED BY SUSAN V. BOOTH

***BOOTH’S MAJOR REVIVAL OF HAROLD PINTER’S FAMED MASTERWORK APPEARS FEBRUARY 8 – MARCH 16, 2025; TICKETS GO ON SALE NOVEMBER 22 ***

The “eternal triangle” is complete! Artistic Director Susan V. Booth announces that stage and screen star Robert Sean Leonard joins her upcoming production of Betrayal by Nobel Prize-winner Harold Pinter—slated to appear as Jerry alongside the previously announced cast members Oscar, Emmy and Golden Globe Award winner Helen Hunt (as Emma) and Tony Award nominee and Outer Critics Circle Award winner Ian Barford (as Robert)—for the Goodman’s major revival of Harold Pinter’s classic work this winter. 

Leonard, a Tony Award winner (for The Invention of Love) whose most recent notable theater credits include At Home at the Zoo (Signature Theatre), Richard II (Old Globe Theatre) and Stephen Sondheim’s acclaimed Broadway revival of Sunday in the Park with George, made his film debut in Dead Poet’s Society at age 19. He earned a Screen Actors Guild Award nomination for his portrayal of ‘Dr. James Wilson’ on the iconic Fox medical drama House alongside Hugh Laurie. Susan V. Booth’s revival of Betrayal by Harold Pinter appears February 8 – March 16, 2025 in Goodman Theatre’s 856-seat Albert Theatre. 

Tickets are now available through Goodman Membership; call 312.443.3800 or visit GoodmanTheatre.org/Connect. Single tickets go on sale November 22. The Goodman is grateful for the support of Northern Trust (Lead Corporate Sponsor).

“Robert Sean Leonard is one of the consummate stage actors of our generation, and the opportunity to complete the Betrayal triangle – populated by Helen and Ian already – with an actor of Robert’s caliber just delights me,” said Susan V. Booth, whose major revival of Pinter’s masterwork follows her acclaimed directorial debut as Goodman Theatre Artistic Director this past season with Margaret Atwood’s The Penelopiad.

Emma, Robert and Jerry have history. As Emma’s marriage to Robert comes to an end, she reconnects with Jerry, her former lover—and her husband’s best friend. The action unspools backward in time, uncovering hidden truths and revealing how little we know about those we think we know so much about. Acclaimed stage and screen actor Helen Hunt (Mad About You, As Good As It Gets) makes her Goodman debut in this “elegy about time and memory (where) the greatest dramatic weight lies in what’s unspoken, in the darkness of unsorted feelings” (New York Times).

Robert Sean Leonard’s additional screen appearances include ‘President Harry Truman’ in the Showtime limited series The First Lady and has had recurring roles on the TNT series Falling Skies and the NBC series Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. Film credits include Much Ado About Nothing, The Age of Innocence, The I Inside, Mr. and Mrs. Bridge, Swing Kids, Tape, Chelsea Walls and Whit Stillman’s The Last Days of Disco. London theater credits include Our Town and ‘Atticus Finch’ in To Kill a Mockingbird at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Additional Broadway appearances include Long Day’s Journey Into Night (Tony nomination), Born Yesterday, The Violet Hour, The Music Man, The Iceman Cometh, Arcadia, Candida (Tony nomination), Philadelphia, Here I Come!, The Speed of Darkness, Breaking the Code and Brighton Beach Memoirs. He worked on the Ridley Scott-produced mini-series The Hot Zone for National Geographic Television, based on Richard Preston’s bestselling book about the Ebola virus, and has recently wrapped 10 episodes on HBO’s The Gilded Age S2.

Helen Hunt has enjoyed a distinguished career not only as an award-winning actor, but as an accomplished writer, director and producer. As an actress, her extensive and diverse body of work includes roles in film, theater and television. Hunt’s latest role is as Rainey in Daveed Diggs and Rafael Casal’s Blindspotting, a television adaptation of the acclaimed film of the same name. The series garnered a nomination for the Best New Scripted Series at the 2022 Film Independent Spirit Awards. Hunt can next be seen in the upcoming season of HBO Max’s Hacks American comedy-drama television series created by Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs and Jen Statsky. 

In 2022, Hunt undertook a residency at The Old Vic Theatre, portraying a character in Eureka Day. This play delves into the lives of parents serving on the Executive Committee of a progressive private school in Berkeley, California. When faced with a public health crisis, their professed acceptance of diversity is put to the test, revealing their true nature. Written by Jonathan Spector and directed by Katy Rudd, this production marks the European premiere of a highly acclaimed narrative. Alongside Hunt, the cast included Kirsten Foster, Mark McKinney, Ben Schnetzer and Susan Kelechi Watson. 

In 2019, Hunt revived her role as Jamie Buchman for another season of the hit show Mad About You opposite Paul Reiser. The show returned as a limited series on Spectrum Originals with all episodes available on demand.     

In 2012 Hunt’s performance in The Sessions earned her an Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Female and notations in the same category by the Academy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, SAG Awards, Broadcast Film Critics’ Awards and the BAFTA Awards.  The film premiered in competition at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival and took home the Audience Award as well as the jury prize for Best Ensemble.   

Other film credits include: Netflix’s Comedy Candy Jar, Ride (which Hunt also co-wrote, produced, and directed), Decoding Annie Parker, Soul Surfer, Every Day, Bobby, Then She Found Me (which Hunt again also co-wrote, produced and directed), As Good As It Gets, What Women Want, Castaway, A Good Woman, Woody Allen’s The Curse Of The Jade Scorpion, Robert Altman’s Dr. T And The Women, Pay It Forward and Twister. Hunt can last be seen in How It Ends, Michael Cristopher’s The Night Clerk and Adam Randall’s thriller I See You. Early career film credits are: The Waterdance, Kiss Of Death, Mr. Saturday Night, Peggy Sue Got Married, Next Of Kin, Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, Project X and Miles From Home. Additional television credits include Mad About You and the critically acclaimed HBO Miniseries Empire Falls. For her role as Jamie Buchman in Mad About You, Hunt garnered four Emmy Awards, four Golden Globe Awards (three as lead actress and one as Producer for Best Comedy) and a Screen Actors Guild Award.  She was also named “Best Actress” for her role in the film As Good As It Gets for which Hunt won a Golden Globe Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award and an Oscar.     

Ian Barford returns to the Goodman stage after 27 years having appeared in All The Rage by Keith Reddin and Design For Living by Noël Coward. On Broadway, Tony nomination and Outer Critics award for his performance in Linda Vista. He originated the role of Little Charles in the Tony-winning play August: Osage County which also played at London's National Theater. Original Broadway company of the Tony-winning play Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Nighttime. Also, The Minutes and The Rise And Fall Of Little Voice. In Los Angeles, several stage appearances at the Geffen and Ahmanson Theaters. Ensemble member at Chicago's Steppenwolf Theater, where he has appeared in plays for more than 30 years. 

Harold Pinter was born on October 10, 1930 in the London borough of Hackney, son of a Jewish dressmaker. Growing up, Pinter was met with the expressions of anti-Semitism, and has indicated its importance for his becoming a dramatist. At the outbreak of the Second World War, he was evacuated from London at the age of nine, returning at the age of twelve. He has said that the experience of wartime bombing has never lost its hold on him. Back in London, he attended Hackney Grammar School where he played Macbeth and Romeo among other characters in productions directed by Joseph Brearley. This prompted him to choose a career in acting. In 1948 he was accepted at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. In 1950, he published his first poems. In 1951 he was accepted at the Central School of Speech and Drama. That same year, he won a place in Anew McMaster’s famous Irish repertory company, renowned for its performances of Shakespeare. Pinter toured again between 1954 and 1957, using the stage name of David Baron. Between 1956 and 1980 he was married to actor Vivien Merchant. In 1980 he married the author and historian Lady Antonia Fraser. 

Pinter made his playwriting debut in 1957 with The Room, presented in Bristol. Other early plays were The Birthday Party (1957), at first a fiasco of legendary dimensions but later one of his most performed plays, and The Dumb Waiter (1957). His conclusive breakthrough came with The Caretaker (1959), followed by The Homecoming (1964) and other plays. 

Pinter is generally seen as the foremost representative of British drama in the second half of the 20th century. That he occupies a position as a modern classic is illustrated by his name entering the language as an adjective used to describe a particular atmosphere and environment in drama: “Pinteresque”. 

Pinter restored theater to its basic elements: an enclosed space and unpredictable dialogue, where people are at the mercy of each other and pretense crumbles. With a minimum of plot, drama emerges from the power struggle and hide-and-seek of interlocution. Pinter’s drama was first perceived as a variation of absurd theater but has later more aptly been characterized as “comedy of menace,” a genre where the writer allows us to eavesdrop on the play of domination and submission hidden in the most mundane of conversations. In a typical Pinter play, we meet people defending themselves against intrusion or their own impulses by entrenching themselves in a reduced and controlled existence. Another principal theme is the volatility and elusiveness of the past. 

It is said of Pinter that following an initial period of psychological realism he proceeded to a second, more lyrical phase with plays such as Landscape (1967) and Silence (1968) and finally to a third, political phase with One for the Road (1984), Mountain Language (1988), The New World Order (1991) and other plays. But this division into periods seems oversimplified and ignores some of his strongest writing, such as No Man’s Land (1974) and Ashes to Ashes (1996). In fact, the continuity in his work is remarkable, and his political themes can be seen as a development of the early Pinter’s analyzing of threat and injustice.

Since 1973, Pinter has won recognition as a fighter for human rights, alongside his writing. He has often taken stands seen as controversial. Pinter has also written radio plays and screenplays for film and television. Among his best-known screenplays are those for The Servant (1963), The Accident (1967), The Go-Between (1971) and The French Lieutenant’s Woman (1981, based on the John Fowles novel). Pinter has also made a pioneering contribution as a director. 

ABOUT GOODMAN THEATRE

Chicago’s theater since 1925, Goodman Theatre is a not-for-profit arts and community organization in the heart of the Loop, distinguished by the excellence and scope of its artistic programming and community engagement. Led by Artistic Director Susan V. Booth and Executive Director/CEO Roche Schulfer*, the theater’s artistic priorities include new play development (more than 150 world or American premieres), large scale musical theater works and reimagined classics. Artists and productions have earned two Pulitzer Prizes, 22 Tony Awards and more than 160 Jeff Awards, among other accolades. The Goodman is the first theater in the world to produce all 10 plays in August Wilson’s “American Century Cycle.” Its longtime annual holiday tradition, A Christmas Carol, now in its fourth decade, has created a new generation of theatergoers in Chicago. The Goodman also frequently serves as a production and program partner with national and international companies and Chicago’s off-Loop theaters.

As a cultural and community organization invested in quality, diversity and community, Goodman Theatre is committed to using the art of theater for a better Chicago. Using the tools of the theatrical profession, the Goodman’s Education and Engagement programs aim to develop generations of citizens who understand the cultures and stories of diverse voices. The Goodman’s Alice Rapoport Center for Education and Engagement is the home of these programs, which are offered free of charge for Chicago youth—85% of whom come from underserved communities—schools and life-long learners.

Goodman Theatre was founded by William O. Goodman and his family in honor of their son Kenneth, an important figure in Chicago’s cultural renaissance in the early 1900s. The Goodman family’s legacy lives on through the continued work and dedication of Kenneth’s family, including Albert Ivar Goodman, who with his late mother, Edith-Marie Appleton, contributed the necessary funds for the creation of the new Goodman center in 2000.

Today, Goodman Theatre leadership also includes the distinguished members of the Artistic Collective: Rebecca Gilman, Henry Godinez, Dael Orlandersmith, Steve Scott, Kimberly Senior, Chuck Smith and Mary Zimmerman. Julie Danis is Chairman of Goodman Theatre’s Board of Trustees, Lorrayne Weiss is Women’s Board President and Kelli Garcia is President of the Scenemakers Board for young professionals.

*Note: On September 1, 2024, John Collins becomes Executive Director of Goodman Theatre. 

Rough House Theatre’s House of the Exquisite Corpse, returns to Steppenwolf’s Merle Reskin Garage Space, October 10-November 2 , 2024!

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Chicago’s only immersive puppet haunted house 

House of the Exquisite Corpse IV: Superstitions

Chicago’s one and only immersive puppet haunted house 

returns October 10-November 2 

at Steppenwolf's Merle Reskin Garage Space

Here at ChiIL Live Shows & ChiIL Mama, we've caught every year of Rough House's House of the Exquisite Corpse, since its inception. Aside from their pandemic era offering with full face shields, that fogged up like aquarium glass, it's been a macabre delight. 

Chicago’s only immersive puppet haunted house, House of the Exquisite Corpse IV: Superstitions, returns October 10-November 2 at Steppenwolf's Merle Reskin Garage Space with an all-new program of puppet horror sure to shock, astonish and inspire.

Fans of Halloween, haunted houses, puppetry and live theater are the ideal audience for House of the Exquisite Corpse, where original puppetry, physical performance, soundscape, and illusion combine for a frightfully fun night of smart, creative adult Halloween revelry. 

Or, as the Chicago Reader put it, “if you want to move beyond schlock and shock into an elevated horror experience this October, look no further than House of the Exquisite Corpse.”

Rough House Theater's House of the Exquisite Corpse III in 2023 featured this puppet by Grace Needlman and Pablo Monterubio, puppeteered by Lindsey Ball. Credit: Yvette Marie Dostatni

Rough House Theater's House of the Exquisite Corpse III featured puppets by artists Justin D’Acci and Sion Silva. Credit: Yvette Marie Dostatni

Each fall, Rough House Theatre’s puppet haunt returns with a new theme. 2024 is the year of Superstitions.

So don’t step on a crack, because six teams of Chicago artists who work in puppetry and other disciplines have joined to create six different puppet horror experiences, each inspired by a different superstition:

“Step on a crack”

By Ken Buckingham and Corey Smith

“Broken Mirror”

by Justin D’Acci and Pablo Monterrubio

“If you lie, the devil’s darning needle will sew your mouth shut”

By Chio Cabrera, Alonso Galue and Brett Swinney

“Through the Looking Glass”

By Felix Mayes and Cam Armstrong Smith

“A White Bird in the House is an Omen of Death”

By Jacky Kelsey, Fletcher Pierson and Kevin Wesson

“An ill fate befalls those who pluck from fruit in their dreams”

By Sion Silva and Emilie Wingate



House of the Exquisite Corpse III features puppets by Ken Buckingham, puppeteered by Felix Mayes and Kevin Michael Wesson. Credit Yvette Marie Dostatni



House of the Exquisite Corpse III featured puppets by Emilie Wingate and Tom Lee, puppeteered by Sam Lewis. Credit Yvette Marie Dostatni

Enter House of the Exquisite Corpse IV: Superstitions, if you dare.

First, you’ll gather in a make-shift foyer, where a bar sells beer, wine and a truly horrifying speciality cocktail (TBA).

Next, small groups enter via timed entries. Once inside, they huddle close together, braving the house’s dark, murky expanse, stopping by each “room” to spy through keyholes, cracks, and hidden doors to witness the carnage, horrors, and sometimes, humor, happening inside. 

“Our Halloween production gives local puppet artists the freedom to follow their own visions, create their own visuals, and be motivated by whatever flavor of horror that freaks that person out the most,” said Mike Oleon, Co-Artistic Director of Rough House, who conceived House of the Exquisite Corpse with fellow Co-Artistic Director, Claire Saxe.

“Then we all come together to assemble a collaborative installation that, collectively, blurs the lines between horror, puppetry and theater, beckoning you to gaze into a variety of nightmares you won’t soon forget.”

Opening Night is Thursday, October 10. Visit House of the Exquisite Corpse, if you dare, Thursday through Saturday, through November 2. Ticketed entries are every 15 minutes, starting at 7 p.m. Last entry at 9:30 p.m.

Tickets are $21-$46, and go on sale August 18 at RoughHouseTheater.com. Rough House also offers several Pay What You Want options. This production is recommended for audiences ages 14 and over.

House of the Exquisite Corpse III featured this puppet by

Grace Needlman and Pablo Monterubio, puppeteered by Lindsey Ball.

Credit: Yvette Marie Dostatni



House of the Exquisite Corpse III featured puppets by Jacky Kelsey, puppeteered by Chio Cabrera and Lucy Wirtz. Credit Yvette Marie Dostatni

About Rough House Theater Co.

Rough House Theater Co. is on a mission to connect individuals and communities through art that celebrates the weird things that make us unique and the weirder things that bring us together.

Rough House creates theater that captures the heart through the eye. Their shows use puppetry, music, and human performance to tell intimate stories, as strange as they are sincere. Through performances, presentations of work by fellow artists, and artist training, Rough House aspires to make Chicago a national hub of contemporary puppet theater, comprising a diverse and ever-growing community of audiences and artists. 

Earlier this year, the Chicago Reader named Rough House Theatre Company’s Nasty, Brutish & Short puppet cabaret series “Best late-night adult-content puppet cabaret.” The company’s work has also appeared in the National Puppetry Festival, The Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival, punk houses, funeral parlors, a lotion factory, and the woods of Appalachia.

For more information, visit RoughHouseTheater.com and follow the company on Instagram and Facebook.

The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk Via Northlight Theatre September 5 – October 6, 2024

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Northlight Theatre opens 2024-2025 season with

The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk 

By Daniel Jamieson

Music by Ian Ross

Stage and Movement Direction by Elizabeth Margolius

Music Direction by Michael Mahler

Featuring Jack Cahill-Lemme and Emma Rosenthal

September 5 – October 6, 2024

Northlight Theatre, under the direction of Artistic Director BJ Jones and Executive Director Timothy J. Evans, opens its 2024–2025 season with The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk by Daniel Jamieson, music by Ian Ross, stage and movement direction by Elizabeth Margolius, with music direction by Michael Mahler. The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk runs September 5-October 6, 2024, at Northlight Theatre, 9501 Skokie Blvd in Skokie. I'll be out for the press opening September 12th, so check back soon for my full review. 

Marc Chagall and his poet wife Bella were partners in life and in art. Their romance is immortalized in a feast of music, dance, and paintings brought-to-life, capturing the essence of a marriage that soared above the upheaval through which it endured. From their first meeting in Vitebsk, and through the Russian revolution, pogroms, and two world wars, their joy manifests in moments as vibrant and whimsical as the treasured artist’s best-known works. With a klezmer-inspired score, wistful songs, and inventive staging, Flying Lovers celebrates the inspiring life and love of an extraordinary couple.

**A different piece based on the same artist, Chagall in School by James Sherman, was directed by Northlight Associate Artistic Director Georgette Verdin at Theater Wit in 2022. We adored it, here at ChiIL Mama and ChiIL Live Shows and gave Chagall in School a highly recommended rating.** 

“One of the joyous reasons to attend live theatre is the celebration of movement, music, and text. And The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk is certainly an example of that,” comments Artistic Director BJ Jones. “Marc Chagall and his wife Bella guide us through their lives revealing the love and longing of a life in art. Unwelcome in their home in Russia, navigating pogroms and antisemitism, Marc and Bella struggled to achieve their artistic dreams, raise a child, and survive the destruction of their beloved Vitebsk, all while creating bold and whimsical art. Here in Chicago, we are blessed with Marc’s work at the Art Institute of Chicago with the America Windows, and his Four Seasons mosaic resides at Chase Tower Plaza downtown. This charming whimsical production is a fitting theatrical companion piece to Marc Chagall’s work.”

**Marc Chagall had a fondness for Chicago, which he first visited in 1946. He said he was impressed by the city’s architecture and the friendliness of its people, and he formed lasting friendships with his admirers and patrons – an association which led to his creation of the Four Seasons mosaic at Chase Tower Plaza (then known as First National Bank Plaza), and his gifting of America Windows to the Art Institute of Chicago.**

The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk features Jack Cahill-Lemme (Marc Chagall) and Emma Rosenthal (Bella), with ensemble/musicians Elisa Carlson and Michael Mahler.

The creative team includes Elizabeth Margolius (stage and movement director), Michael Mahler (music director), Daren Leonard (associate director), Scott Penner (set design), Rachel Lambert (costume design), Charlie Cooper (light design), Willow James (sound design), Leo Bassow (props design), Jessica Deahr NeVille (lift consultant), Jyreika Guest (resident violence and intimacy coordinator), and Katie Klemme (stage manager).

About the Artists

Daniel Jamieson (Playwright) worked with Theatre Alibi in Exeter, UK for more than 30 years as associate writer and adaptor, performer and artistic director. His work as a writer for Alibi includes: River Land, Falling, Hammer and Tongs, Goucher’s War, Cobbo, Caught, One in a Million, The Freeze, Shelf Life, Little White Lies, The Swell, Sea of Faces and Birthday. In 2015 he won an ACA award for his writing for children with the company. Daniel’s play The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk was produced by Kneehigh Theatre and won the Carol Tambor Best of Edinburgh Award in 2017. Since then, The Flying Lovers has been produced in the States by Quantum Theater in Pittsburgh, Forward Theater in Wisconsin and Winnipeg Jewish Theater. Daniel has written five plays for BBC Radio 4 and has also written for Polka Theatre, London Bubble, Theatre Royal Plymouth and Northampton Theatres. In 2013, Daniel was Leverhulme artist-in-residence at the University of Exeter’s Mood Disorders Centre.

Ian Ross (Music) is a Bristol based multi instrumentalist, composer, and Head of music for The School for Wise Children. He leads the band Eleven Magpies. Theatre for Kneehigh includes: Brief Encounter, The Red Shoes, Don John, The Wild Bride, Tristan and Yseult, Dead Dog in a Suitcase, The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk. Theatre as Music Director includes: Girl from the North Country (Toronto 2019, Runway). Theatre as Composer includes: Twelfth Night (Shakespeare’s Globe); The Very Old Man with Enormous Wings, The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk (Kneehigh); Wise Children, Malory Towers, Bagdad Café and Wuthering Heights (Wise Children); London Tide (National Theatre). Film as Composer includes: The Princess and Peppernose (RSA and Joe Wright). Nominations include: Dora Mavor Award for Outstanding Musical Direction 2020 (Girl from the North Country), Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Music in a Play 2023 (Wuthering Heights).

**A Jeff Award winning stage and movement director, Elizabeth most recently won the Joseph Jefferson Award for Best Director of a Musical for Shattered Globe’s London Road and recently directed Fiddler on the Roof at Drury Lane Theatre.**

Elizabeth Margolius (Stage and Movement Director) A Jeff Award winning stage and movement director, Elizabeth most recently won the Joseph Jefferson Award for Best Director of a Musical for Shattered Globe’s London Road, and she is excited to be making her debut at Northlight. A five-time Jeff Award nominee, Elizabeth’s selected directorial credits include work with Drury Lane Theatre, American Stage, Opera Southwest, Peninsula Players, Renaissance Theaterworks, Firebrand Theatre, Chicago Opera Theater, Underscore Theatre, Chicago Folks Operetta, American Theater Company, Chicago Shakespeare Theater (Assistant Director), City Lit Theater, and Bohemian Theatre Ensemble. Elizabeth is a proud member of the American Guild of Musical Artists and the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society. www.elizabethmargolius.com

Jack Cahill-Lemme (Marc Chagall) is making his Northlight Theatre debut. He was most recently seen on Broadway and the National Tour of Moulin Rouge! Select credits include: Gerry Goffin in Beautiful (John W Engeman), Barry Mann in Beautiful (North Shore MT), Sonny in Grease (Marriott Theatre, The Rev), Kenicke in Grease (Casa Mañana), Leonard Cowherd III in Letters Home (Griffin Theatre), Jack in What A Wonderful World (Timberlake Playhouse - World Premiere), Kinky Boots (Paramount Theatre), A Christmas Carol (Drury Lane), Seussical & Junie B. Jones (Marriott Theatre), and more. 

Emma Rosenthal (Bella) makes her Northlight debut. Chicago credits include: Fiddler on the Roof, Peter and the Starcatcher, West Side Story, Les Miserables, Beauty and the Beast (Drury Lane Oakbrook); Big Fish, Hello Dolly (Marriott); Athena (Writers Theatre); The Fantasticks (Porchlight); The Tempest (Steppenwolf); Brigadoon. Candide (The Goodman). Off Broadway: The Threepenny Opera (Marvell Rep, Drama Desk Nomination: Best Musical); Liberty (Theatre80). Regional credits include: Indiana Repertory Theatre, Peninsula Players, Huntington Theatre, Weston Playhouse, Cardinal Stage, Williamstown Theatre Festival. A proud graduate of Northwestern University, Emma is also a competitive powerlifter and pastry chef (you may have seen her and her mom on Season One of Fox's Crime Scene Kitchen).

Elisa Carlson (Ensemble) is making her Northlight debut. She holds a bachelor’s degree in piano performance and theater from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. Chicago credits include: Once (Writers Theatre and Paramount Theatre), Ernest Shackleton Loves Me (Porchlight Music Theatre), Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story (American Blues Theater), One Man, Two Guvnors (Court Theatre), Pop Waits (Neo-Futurists), and American Idiot (The Hypocrites).  Elisa is also a 20-year veteran of the solo and dueling piano bar scene in Chicago and around the world.

Michael Mahler (Music Director and Ensemble) is excited to make his Northlight debut. Chicagoland credits include The Last Wide Open, It’s a Wonderful Life, Buddy, Little Shop of Horrors, Side Man, Hank Williams: Lost Highway (American Blues); The Music Man, Holiday Inn, Honeymoon in Vegas, City of Angels, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Marriott); Into the Woods (Writers); The March (Steppenwolf), and Working (Broadway Playhouse). Michael is the Jeff award-winning composer/lyricist of October Sky, Hero, Miracle, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, An American Tail, My Little Pony: A New Generation and others. Proud husband to Dara Cameron, father to Ezra, and ensemble member of American Blues Theatre.

Dates:

Previews begin September 5, 2024

Press Opening: Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 7:30pm

Regular run: September 13-October 6, 2024

Schedule:      

Tuesdays: 7:30pm (September 10 only)

Wednesdays: 1:00pm and 7:30pm

Thursdays: 7:30pm 

Fridays: 7:30pm

Saturdays: 2:30pm (except September 7) and 7:30pm

Sundays: 2:30pm and 7:30pm (September 8 only)

Backstage with BJ – Northlight’s popular discussion series with Artistic Director BJ Jones – will be held August 30 at 12pm.

An Open Captioned performance will be held on Friday, September 27 at 7:30pm. An Open Captioned and Audio Described/Touch Tour performance will be held on Saturday, September 28 at 2:30pm.

Location: Northlight Theatre is located at the North Shore

Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie

Tickets: Previews: $35-$74

Regular run: $49-$91

Student tickets are $15, any performance (subject to availability)

Box Office: The Box Office is located at 9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie. 847.673.6300; northlight.org

**The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk is Northlight's second play based on a well-known artist, following 2023's Andy Warhol in Iran, which was a critical and commercial success. Here at ChiIL Mama and ChiIL Live Shows we thoroughly enjoyed Andy Warhol in Iran, and gave it a highly recommended rating.** 

2024-2025 Season

The 2024-2025 season will open with the whimsical play with music about the romance of Marc Chagall and his poet wife Bella, The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk, September 5 – October 6, 2024; followed by a new adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women by Northlight favorite Lauren Gunderson, November 29 – December 29, 2024; Lloyd Suh’s funny and moving play The Heart Sellers about the Asian immigrant experience in the 1970s, January 23 – February 23, 2025; and Joshua Harmon’s celebrated play Prayer for the French Republic, directed by Jeremy Wechsler in a co-production with Theater Wit, April 10 – May 11, 2025. The season closes with the mesmerizing one-man show about Donny Hathaway, Twisted Melodies, written and performed by Kelvin Roston Jr, July 10-August 10, 2025.

Subscriptions range in price from $135-290. Flex pass options are $120-$210. With its wide range of ticket prices, discounted subscription packages and complimentary parking, Northlight remains one of the best theatrical values in Chicagoland. Package options include traditional 5-Play Packages, 4-Play Packages, and Flex Packages. Subscriptions are available at northlight.org/subscribe or 847.673.6300.

Northlight Theatre aspires to promote change of perspective and encourage compassion by exploring the depth of our humanity across a bold spectrum of theatrical experiences, reflecting our community to the world and the world to our community.

Founded in 1974, the organization has mounted over 240 productions, including more than 45 world premieres. Northlight has earned 230 Joseph Jefferson Award nominations and 36 Awards, as well as 11 Edgerton Foundation for New Play Awards. As one of the area’s premier theatre companies, Northlight is a regional magnet for critical and professional acclaim, as well as talent of the highest quality.

Northlight is supported in part by generous contributions BMO Harris Bank; Bulley & Andrews; Byline Bank; ComEd, An Exelon Company; Dr. Scholl Foundation; Eckenhoff Saunders Architects, Inc.; The Field Foundation of Illinois; Full Circle Foundation; Grumman Butkus Associates; Hagerty Consulting; Illinois Arts Council, a state agency; John R Halligan Charitable Fund; LionBird; Lloyd A. Fry Foundation; Mabadi Realty; Mammel Family Foundation; Modestus Bauer Foundation; Northwestern University; Paul M. Angell Family Foundation; Pritzker Foundation; The Schubert Foundation, Inc.; The Sullivan Family Foundation; The Weatherlow Foundation; Tom Stringer Design Partners.

The 15th Annual Living Newspaper Festival Via Jackalope Theatre Company September 13 - 16, 2024

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

JACKALOPE THEATRE COMPANY ANNOUNCES ITS RETURN 

TO THE BROADWAY ARMORY WITH 

THE 15th ANNUAL LIVING NEWSPAPER FESTIVAL

SEPTEMBER 13 - 16

 The 2024 Festival Includes Five World Premiere One-Act Plays Inspired by Recent News Headlines.

Jackalope Theatre Company is proud to announce its return to Broadway Armory Park, 5917 N. Broadway, with the 15th Annual Living Newspaper Festival, September 13 - 16. The Living Newspaper Festival is inspired by the 1930s Living Newspapers of the Federal Theatre Project that created stories based on recent events. This year’s Festival includes five one-act plays inspired from recent news headlines. The running time is 75 minutes with no intermission. The performance schedule is Friday, Sept. 13 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 14 at 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 15 at 3 p.m. and Monday, Sept. 16 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 - $30 and are available at www.jackalopetheatre.org or by calling 773-340-2543.

Artistic Director Kaiser Ahmed remarks that "our 15th Living Newspaper Festival is a milestone and testament to the incisive and illuminating power of immediate theatre. In an era where misleading or false news proliferates, Jackalope is committed to engaging directly with audiences to examine current events. We've honed in on the stories, truths, and communities behind each of these five plays. With this lineup of nationally acclaimed playwrights, you won't want to miss this one-weekend-only theatrical event."

The 15th Annual Living Newspaper Festival includes

OUT OF THIS WORLD

by Rammel Chan

directed by Wendy Mateo

While bidding farewell to the Chuck E. Cheese animatronic band, an uncle and his niece struggle to say goodbye to the joys of youth, the stability of the past and each other.

Inspired by "Farewell, Chuck E. Cheese Animatronic Band” - The New York Times, May 11, 2024

THE BEST OF US

by Ike Holter

directed by Gus Menary*

A modern couple gets together to talk shit about their legion of haters.

Inspired by "America’s premier pronatalists on having ‘tons of kids’ to save the world: ‘There are going to be countries of old people starving to death” - The Guardian, May 25, 2024

THE DEPTHS

by Paloma Nozicka*

directed by Gus Menary*

Nearing the anniversary of a mysterious disaster, a billionaire CEO seeks help from a therapist for a recurring nightmare.

Inspired by "Frightening Log From Titan Submersible’s Fatal Dive Declared a Fake” - The New York Times, June 10, 2024



A DROP IN THE BUCKET

by Ireon Roach

directed by Sydney Charles

A play in not e’en ha’f a act in which Sumwea, Sumha, sum Browk comes together through a dive into the psyche of sacred sweat while a baby searches for healing in Grandfather’s breath.

Inspired by "A tribe in Maine is using opioid settlement funds on a sweat lodge to treat addiction” - NPR News, May 12, 2024

INTO THE BREECH

by Madhuri Shekar

directed by Wendy Mateo

Two friends attempt a DIY c-section with the help of a surgical kit purchased from CVS and an AI virtual doula.

Inspired by "Frightening Log From Titan Submersible’s Fatal Dive Declared a Fake” - The New York Times, May 11, 2024

The production team for the 15th Annual Living Newspaper Festival includes: Ryan Emens* (scenic designer), Claire Sangster* (lighting designer), Michael Huey (sound designer), Tony Santiago (video designer), Ike Holter (producer), Paloma Nozicka* (casting associate), Karina Patel* (dramaturg), Amal Salem (stage manager), Hudson Therriault* (accessibility coordinator), Jon Cohen* (article curator).

* denotes Jackalope Theatre Company member

ABOUT THE LIVING NEWSPAPER FESTIVAL

With a history in the USSR and Germany in the early part of the century, the Living Newspaper was initiated in the United States in 1935 as part of the Federal Theatre Project. Its founders believed in the value of drama as an instrument of social change and the Living Newspapers became a highly effective new form, boldly producing plays that often brought to light social injustices, challenged ideals, and criticized the government.

In response to the Great Depression, Congress appropriated $4.8 billion for work relief and created agencies to administer the funds, including the Works Progress Administration. Despite being allocated less than one percent of WPA funding, the Federal Theatre Project employed approximately eight thousand Theatre professionals a year during its four-year run.

In an attempt to create new plays, the Federal Theatre Project often recruited new writers. One of the goals of the short-lived FTP was to create plays and provide training for aspiring writers, and the Living Newspapers fostered this on a grand scale. Even though insiders acknowledged that it is much easier to build a dam or teach a trade than it is to develop a playwright, the legacy of the FTP laid the groundwork for using theatre to invoke conversation on national themes.

ABOUT JACKALOPE THEATRE

Jackalope Theatre Company expands the definition of American Identity by engaging with communities to produce works that celebrate diverse perspectives. Jackalope is a premier home for new and exciting Off-Loop Theatre based in Chicago's Edgewater and Rogers Park neighborhoods. They are committed to cultivating new voices that contribute to an expanding American culture and mythology. Each season, Jackalope produces full-length plays, new play development programming and provides free classes in partnership with the Chicago Park District.

(Top row,  L to R) Madhuri Shekar, Ireon Roach, Paloma Nozicka, 

(Second row, L to R) Ike Holter and Rammel Chan

LIFELINE THEATRE’S 2024-2025 SEASON ANNOUNCED

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar 

LIFELINE THEATRE’S 2024-2025 SEASON

 

FEATURES A KIDSERIES WORLD PREMIERE, A NEW HIP-HOP ADAPTATION OF A BELOVED STORY, AN ICONIC HOLIDAY TALE ADAPTED AS A ONE-MAN SHOW, AN ENSEMBLE MEMBER-LED SCI-FI THRILLER, AND MORE!

PLUS THE 29th ANNUAL FILLET OF SOLO FESTIVAL

AND 4th ANNUAL PLAYWRIGHT DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP

Memberships available NOW

Lifeline Theatre Artistic Director Ilesa Duncan and the artistic ensemble announce their 2024-25 season of Big Stories, Up Close. The upcoming season features unforgettable stories brought to life, from beloved classics to modern titles.

The 2024-2025 MainStage season features a one-man show adaptation by Lifeline ensemble member Phil Timberlake of the classic holiday tale by Charles Dickens, Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol, followed by a new hip-hop adaptation of the novel The Prince and the Pauper by Mark Twain and first-time collaboration with Salvadoran-American artists Brian and Marvin Quijada in Kid Prince and Pablo, and Lifeline ensemble members John Hildreth (adaptor) and Heather Currie (director)’s contemporary Chicago version of the sci-fi thriller The War of the Worlds based on the novel by H.G. Wells. The KidSeries season will feature the world premiere of ensemble member Amanda Link’s adaptation of Sandra Dieckmann’s Leaf, a story that navigates our relationships with each other and our planet. 

Additionally, Lifeline Theatre will produce the 29th annual Fillet of Solo Festival, a two-week, multi-venue solo performance and storytelling festival, as well as the 4th annual Adaptation Development Workshop featuring new playwrights and their world premiere works.

Season memberships for 2024-2025 are on sale now. To purchase season memberships or for more information call the Lifeline Theatre Box Office at 773-761-4477, or visit www.lifelinetheatre.com.

MainStage Season

Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol, November 29  – December 22, 2024

Kid Prince and Pablo, January 3 – February 16, 2025

The War of the Worlds, May 23 – July 13, 2025

KidSeries Season

Leaf, March 16 – April 20, 2025

Plus The 29th annual Fillet of Solo Festival, November 2024

4th annual Adaptation Workshop and Showcase, July 2025

Special Events

Dorothy L. Sayers Concert Readings

Gaudy Night, September 14, 2024

Strong Poison, October 19, 2024

New season memberships offer a variety of ways to interact with Lifeline. The Full Membership includes 4 flex tickets for MainStage productions, 2 flex tickets for our KidSeries production, 2 flex tickets for the Annual Adaptation Showcase, and a Fillet of Solo Fest Pass, all for $155 ($310 value). The Limited Membership includes 4 flex tickets for MainStage productions and 2 flex tickets to our Annual Adaptation Showcase for $100 ($210 value). Being a Lifeline Member allows patrons to save up to 50% OFF the complete season; offers a 20% discount on additional tickets, drama camp registration, and Lifeline merchandise; and gives first choice of seats with unlimited free ticket exchanges.

An add-on for KidSeries shows is admission to one “Stories Come Alive!” hour during each KidSeries production for only $10. These hour-long sessions (running Sundays at 12 p.m., between regularly scheduled KidSeries performances) feature readings, activities and on-your-feet drama games to supplement the KidSeries productions.

Ticket prices for the 2024-25 season are as follows: regular single MainStage tickets are $45; group rates available for 10 or more; previews are $25; seniors and active and retired military personnel (with ID) are $35; students (with ID) are $15. Lifeline’s KidSeries single tickets are $20; and previews are $15 each.

Lifeline Theatre is located at 6912 N. Glenwood Ave. in Chicago’s Rogers Park neighborhood. Lifeline is accessible by CTA (Red Line Morse stop/buses) and free parking is available at Sullivan High School (6631 N Bosworth Ave, lot located on the corner of Albion and Bosworth; 0.5 mile walk to Lifeline). Street parking is also available. Lifeline is accessible to wheelchair users and visitors who need to avoid stairs.

Lifeline Theatre explores, interprets, and reimagines books and other literary works to create stories that move us beyond the margins of our own lives.

Founded in 1982, Lifeline is known for staging innovative adaptations of great works of fiction as well as commissioning original work. In 1987, Lifeline added KidSeries plays for children and families, and has been producing full seasons of programming for both adults and children ever since.  Over the course of forty-one seasons and over two hundred productions, Lifeline Theatre has made not only an indelible mark on the Chicago theater scene, but an invaluable contribution to the theater world at large. Lifeline’s dedicated artistic ensemble has developed one hundred and forty-six world premiere literary adaptations and original plays, nearly forty of which have had a life beyond their Lifeline premieres, with over three hundred subsequent productions spread across over forty U.S. states, six Canadian provinces, plus productions in England, Ireland, Australia, South Africa, and Guatemala. Additionally, four scripts developed at Lifeline Theatre have gone on to U.S. national tours, and over a dozen have been published. Lifeline Theatre has garnered a total of fifty-three Jeff Awards (Equity and Non-Equity), including sixteen for New Adaptation, New Musical, or New Work.

Lifeline’s artistic ensemble is led by Artistic Director Ilesa Duncan and includes Aly Renee Amidei, Shelby Lynn Bias, Patrick Blashill, Jessica Wright Buha, Christina Calvit, Heather Currie, Bilal Dardai, Victoria DeIorio, Amanda Delheimer, Alan Donahue, Andrés Enriquez, Diane D. Fairchild, Kevin D. Gawley, Peter Greenberg, James E. Grote, Chris Hainsworth, John Hildreth, Elise Kauzlaric, Robert Kauzlaric, Anthony Kayer, Frances Limoncelli, Amanda Link, Martel Manning, Katie McLean Hainsworth, Dorothy Milne, Shole Milos, Sandy Snyder Pietz, Suzanne Plunkett, Maren Robinson, Phil Timberlake, Jenifer Tyler, Christopher M. Walsh, and Christopher Vizurraga.

Lifeline Theatre’s programs are partially supported by the Paul M. Angell Foundation, Carol Oppenheim + Jerome Lamet Charitable Fund; Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation; a CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events; the Illinois Arts Council Agency; Rogers Park Social; S&C Electric Company Fund; The Shubert Foundation; and the annual support of businesses and individuals. Its work in education and in-school programs are supported by the Lloyd A. Fry Foundation and the Polk Bros. Foundation. 

MainStage Productions

Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol - A Solo Show

Based on A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

Adapted by Lifeline Theatre ensemble member Phil Timberlake

Dates: November 29 - 22, 2024

Regular tickets: $45; preview tickets $25

Previews: Friday, November 29 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, November 30 at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, December 1, 2:30 p.m.

Regular Run: December 6 – December 22: Fridays at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.; Sundays at 2:30 p.m.

The iconic Christmas tale has been cleverly adapted into a one-man show, coming to the stage during the holiday season featuring Lifeline ensemble member Phil Timberlake.

Kid Prince and Pablo

Based on the novel The Prince and the Pauper by Mark Twain

Adapted by Brian Quijada

Composed by Marvin Quijada

Directed by Raquel Torre

Dates: January 3 - February 16, 2025

Regular tickets $45; preview tickets $25

Previews: Fridays, January 3 and January 10 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays, January 4 and January 11 at 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, January 5 and January 12 at 2:30 p.m. 

Press Opening: Sunday, January 13, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. 

Regular Run: January 17  – February 16, 2025: Fridays at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sundays at 2:30 p.m.

A new hip-hop adaptation of The Prince and the Pauper, this production will be a first-time collaboration with Salvadoran-American artists Brian and Marvin Quijada. Brian wrote and starred in Teatro Vista’s highly acclaimed 2022 world premiere musical, Somewhere Over the Border. 

War of the Worlds

Based on the novel by H.G. Wells

Adapted by Lifeline ensemble member John Hildreth

Directed by Lifeline ensemble member Heather Currie

Dates: May 23 – July 13, 2025

Regular tickets $45; preview tickets $25

Previews: Fridays, May 23 and May 30 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays, May 24 and May 31 at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, May 25 and June 1 at 2:30 p.m. 

Press Opening: June 1, 2025 at 2:30 p.m.

Regular Run: June 6 – July 13, 2025: Fridays at 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sundays at 2:30 p.m.

Lifeline’s tagline, “Big Stories Up Close” will be demonstrated again by bringing H.G. Wells’ beloved and influential work to the stage. A study of human nature when the social order is disrupted, ensemble members John Hildreth (adaptor) and Heather Currie (director) bring this story to contemporary Chicago as a live action sci-fi thriller. 

KidSeries 

Leaf

A world premiere based on the book written and illustrated by Sandra Dieckmann

Adapted by Lifeline Theatre ensemble member Amanda Link

Directed by Nathaniel Niemi

Dates: March 13 - April 20, 2025

Regular tickets $20; preview tickets $15

Previews: Thursday, March 13 at 10:30 a.m.; Saturdays, March 12 and March 22 at 11:00 a.m.; and Sunday, March 16 at 11:00 a.m.

Press Opening: Sunday, March 16 at 11:00 a.m.

Regular Run: March 21 – April 20, 2025: Saturdays and Sundays at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

This debut picture book by author and illustrator Sandra Dieckmann is adapted by ensemble member Amanda Link. Featuring a polar bear on his quest to return home, Leaf centers on the importance of compassion for each other and our planet, cooperation with others, and sharing one’s story.  Ensemble member Link teams up with director Nathaniel Niemi to bring audiences a timely world premiere that navigates our relationships with each other and our planet. 

Dorothy L. Sayers Concert Readings: Gaudy Night and Strong Poison

Based on the books by Dorothy L. Sayers

Adapted by Lifeline Theatre ensemble member Frances Limoncelli

Gaudy Night: September 14, 2024

Strong Poison: October 19, 2025 

Regular Tickets $100 

Lifeline revives its annual Concert Reading Series with a series of limited-engagement concert readings of 2 of the Dorothy L. Sayers mysteries. Adapted by Lifeline Theatre ensemble member Frances Limoncelli over the past decade, Whose Body? (2002), Strong Poison (2004), Gaudy Night (2006), and Busman’s Honeymoon (2009) played for more than 14,000 patrons in their collective original runs. Featuring the original cast, Lifeline is thrilled to bring back these fan favorites in support and celebration of Lifeline’s work.

Each morning begins at 11:30 a.m with a light brunch and coffee/mimosas, plus conversation with Lifeline ensemble, staff, and board members. performances start at 12:30 p.m.. (Script times vary, but are approximately two and a half hours in length). An intermission allows for refills of drinks, and after the reading dessert will be served followed by a talk-back with the cast and team. 

The price for these special benefit events (including food, drink, and dessert) is $75 for Lifeline Membership holders ($100 for the general public) and can be ordered by calling the Box Office at 773-761-4477.

The 29th annual Fillet of Solo Festival

November 2024  (Dates to come)

Regular Tickets $12 (per performance); Festival Pass: $60

Celebrating the breadth of Chicago’s enduring storytelling and live lit scene, Lifeline brings together numerous solo performers and storytelling collectives for a two-week, multi-venue selection of powerful personal stories.

Participants, locations, scheduling, and full details for the 2024 Fillet of Solo Festival will be announced Fall 2024.

The 4th annual Adaptation Development Workshop

July 2025 (Dates to come)

Regular Tickets $15; Student $10

Lifeline Theatre is invested in bringing new and diverse voices to its stage. As a new work company specializing in literary adaptation, we believe playwrights and those who adapt books and literature to the stage need time and resources to develop their work. This BIPOC-focused adaptation workshop and showcase seeks to support and collaborate with more writers and other artists of color.

Participants, scheduling, and full details for the 2025 Adaptation Workshop will be announced in Winter 2024.