CHICAGO — There are plenty of opportunities to find your next favorite live stage outing during this fall theater season.
Block Club has gathered information on dozens of productions taking place through the fall and into December in various neighborhoods and price ranges so you can take advantage of Chicago’s big theater season.
From individual stand-ups to improv-inspired, experimental comedy to classic dramas and lavish musicals, you’re bound to find something to check out below.
Know of a show or theater company that should be on our list? Tell us more at arts@blockclubchi.org.
Sept. 6
The Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave.
In the mood for improv? SpotlightCTRL presents “UNMUTED,” a 120-minute live experience blending improv, hip-hop and real talk backed by a live DJ and an ensemble of performers. TV Personality Headkrack will host, BranooFunck will spin the music and Off Book Improv Troupe will bring the talent for this one-of-a-kind-performance.
Alonzo Bodden at The Den Theatre
Sept. 7
The Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Social and political comic Alonzo Bodden will make his appearance at The Den Theatre for a one-night comedy show. Bodden, a one-time winner of “Last Comic Standing,” has been making audiences laugh for 30 years with appearances on NPR’s “Wait Wait … Don’t Tell Me” and in films like “Bringing Down The House” and “Scary Movie 4.” Don’t miss this chance to check out an award-winning standup.
BULL will run until Sept. 11 at Annoyance Theatre this fall. Credit: Provided
Through Sept. 11
The Annoyance Theatre, 851 W. Belmont Ave
Trying to get a diehard sports fan into live theater? This Annoyance production reimagines the Chicago Bulls’ iconic 1990s dynasty “through the lens of two unproven, bench-warming jokesters, merging the legendary ‘96 Bulls with beloved movie tropes of the same era,” as they’re shoved from the bench and into the spotlight.
Joey Villagomez at The Den Theatre
Sept. 14
The Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Enjoy a night of laughter with Chicagoan Joey Villagomez at The Den Theatre. Villagomez has done stand-up for almost 20 years and has become a staple in the city’s comedy scene with his takes on parenting, Mexican culture and all things Chicago. He has also made appearances at the TBS Just For Laughs Festival and has performed in comedy clubs across the country.
How to Transcend A Happy Marriage will run at the Redtwist Theatre until Sept. 21. Credit: Eileen Dixon
‘How to Transcend a Happy Marriage’
Through Sept. 21
Redtwist Theatre, 1044 W. Bryn Mawr Ave.
Redtwist Theatre takes on this emotional play, which deconstructs the idea of the American dream as two couples discuss life, love and monogamy, opening up unexplored paths in their relationships. Sarah Ruhl’s emotional play is a perfect fit for Redtwist’s intimate space.
Jay Larson at The Den Theatre
Sept. 24
The Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Comedy Central and Laugh Factory comic Jay Larson features authentic humor from everyday topics like golf, getting in shape, fatherhood, even self-driving cars (“If If I wanted to be driven around by something with no soul and bad instincts, I’d just drive myself”). Don’t miss Larson’s only Chicago stop on his current tour at the Den Theatre.
Sept. 12-27
Dorothy, 2500 W. Chicago Ave.
Dorothy, the iconic basement bar and ’70s-inspired lounge in West Town, transforms into a theater to host “Catacombs,” the world premiere of a play by Katherine Gwynn. What starts as a glamorous meet-cute between the two leads soon turns into them exploring their deep and mysterious past. The show runs on select nights at the bar for a complete immersive experience.
The Joffrey Ballet is opening its 70th season with “Carmen.” Credit: Carolyn McCabe
‘Carmen‘
Sept. 18-28
The Lyric Opera, 20 N. Upper Wacker Drive
The Joffrey Ballet is opening its 70th season with the U.S. premiere of Liam Scarlett’s acclaimed “Carmen,” which the Joffrey describes as “an evocative and theatrical masterwork.” The production updates the story of the classic opera about the passionate woman who seduces soldier Don José to a 1930s cigarette factory, with Spain on the brink of civil war, bringing a new intensity to this classic tale. Scarlett also choreographed the Joffrey’s unforgettable “Frankenstein” last year.
Kokandy Productions’ Amélie will be at the Chopin Theatre until Sept. 28. Credit: Michael Brosilow
‘Amélie’
Through Sept. 28
Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division St.
Kokandy Production presents “Amélie the Musical,” which follows the tale of the enchanting, imaginative waitress determined to help others find happiness as she eventually finds it for herself. As she puts it in one of her musical numbers, “I might be a dreamer, but it’s gotten me this far.” The audience becomes part of Amélie’s journey as the entire basement of the intimate theater — as well as the lobby, bar and cafe — have been transformed into her imaginative world.
‘Dungeons & Dragons: The Twenty-Sided Tavern‘
Through Sept. 28
Broadway Playhouse, 175 E. Chestnut St.
Take your favorite gamer to the Broadway Playhouse production of global phenomenon “Dungeons & Dragons” for a live on-stage experience that’s interactive and thrilling. The audience joins in this fantasy adventure to choose heroes, battle monsters and help three adventurers on their quest to save their world.
Tom & Eliza will have an extended run at TUTA Theatre, 4670 N. Manor Ave., past its original closing date of Aug. 17. Credit: Provided
‘Tom & Eliza’
Through Sept. 29
TUTA Theatre, 4670 N. Manor Ave.
TUTA Theatre, which describes its productions as “unique, intimate and urgent plays,” has extended its run of “Tom & Eliza” to Sept. 29. This play is performed as a “dual meditation” in one breath, where two characters use rapid-fire language to tell the story of their relationship in an unfiltered fashion.
Huy Nguyen in the opening night performance of WHITE RABBIT, RED RABBIT. Credit: Provided
‘White Rabbit, Red Rabbit’
Through Sept. 29
TUTA Theatre, 4670 N. Manor Ave.
TUTA Theatre is also extending its run of “White Rabbit, Red Rabbit.” This show features a different actor each performance reading the same script, which explores playwright Nassim Soleimanpour’s experiences growing up in Tehran. There’s no rehearsal, no director and no set.
’44 – The Musical’
Through Sept. 21
Studebaker Theatre, Fine Arts Building, 410 S. Michigan Ave.
“44” uses the form of an R&B musical to offer a satirical look at the rise and presidency of Barack Obama, as well as the multitude of political characters he encounters along the way to the Oval Office, including Joe Biden, Sarah Palin, Mitch McConnell, Lindsay Graham and Ted Cruz. Immense vocal talent on the stage and catchy tunes craft the political arena of 2008 America.
‘The Crucible’
Sept.19-21
Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St.
Playwright Arthur Miller’s classic sendup of McCarthyism, “The Crucible” opens in the town of Salem, Massachusetts, and follows its collapse into hysteria when a group of teenage girls accuse their neighbors of witchcraft. The play’s depiction of the Salem Witch Trials serves as a cautionary tale for the dangers of witch hunting and political prosecution.
‘Ghost Fetus’
Sept. 11-27
Trap Door Theatre, 1655 W. Cortland St.
Trap Door Theatre presents “Ghost Fetus” by Chicago-based playwright Suz Evans in its Trap Open Series, which offers a platform for up-and-coming playwrights and non-traditional forms of playmaking. In the comedic “Ghost Fetus,” chaos ensues as a ghost seeks revenge, a church is caught up in its contradictions and two queer teens come to terms with faith, fear and desire.
Vinny Guadagnino at The Den Theatre
Sept. 26-27
The Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Vinny Guadagnino’s rise to comedy dates back to 2009 on MTV’s “Jersey Shore.” Since then, he has appeared on multiple spinoffs and original series, and he now describes himself as a “reality star transitioning into a comedian.” He’ll make an appearance at the Den Theatre for its fall seasonal show run with his surprisingly effective deadpan delivery as he discusses, of course, reality TV and other topics.
Comedian Carmen Esposito takes the Steppenwolf stage Oct. 3-4. Credit: Instagram
Oct. 3-4
Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St.
“No bigger deal for a Chicago kid,” said comedian Carmen Esposito of their upcoming show at the Steppenwolf. They’re debuting their next hour of standup, called “Feat,” on the Steppenwolf stage, inspired by a minor foot surgery that resulted in a near-death experience. The Chicago-area native is now best-known for their show “Take My Wife” and frequent TV appearances, as well as their stand-up comedy and podcast, “Queery.”
‘Rabbits in Their Pockets’
Sept. 5-Oct. 5
Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave.
Lifeline Theatre kicks off its season with the world premiere of Kimberly Dixon-Mays’ original play, which follows two estranged and opposite siblings putting their grief behind them and learning to accept each other’s special magic in the project they pursue. The production began in Lifeline’s 2024 BIPOC Developmental Workshop and draws from African-American, African and Caribbean oral traditions, as well as A.A. Milne’s Cherry Stones and the Br’er Rabbit stories.
Sept. 6-Oct. 5
Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St.
Playwright Lee Kirk offers a love letter to Chicago with this look at a local appliance store and family business. Patriarch Pete (legendary Chicago actor Francis Guinan) is ready to hand over Pete’s TV and Video to his daughter Sam (“The Office’s” Jenna Fischer) after decades. But sometimes our dreams just don’t line up with what our parents have in mind for us. The Goodman kicks off its 100th anniversary season with this star-studded, hyper-local premiere.
Credit: Instagram
‘The F*ck House’
Aug. 31-Oct. 11
Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont Ave.
Developed through Strawdog Theatre’s BIPOC Playwright Residency, this play follows a Korean American teen and her best friend who are trying to navigate the terrors of the ’80s Midwestern suburbs, including junior high. Watch as Mo and Steff’s friendship is tested as Mo assimilates into invisibility, while Steff aspires to be more.
‘The Blood Countess’
Sept. 11-Oct. 11
The Edge Off Broadway, 1133 W. Catalpa Ave.
Countess Elizabeth Báthory was a Hungarian noblewoman accused of torturing and killing hundreds of girls and women from 1590 to 1610. In this spooky play at Idle Muse Theatre at The Edge Off Broadway, you’ll travel to the Carpathian Mountains to see how a countess becomes a monster, exploring the truth behind centuries of blood-soaked rumors.
‘Elephant and Piggie’s We Are In A Play’
Sept. 27-Oct.11
Greenhouse Theater, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave.
Kids love Mo Willems’ “Elephant and Piggie” picture books, as two very different — and funny — friends explore the world around them. Enjoy a musical adaptation of this best-selling early-reader series in a live musical suitable for all ages that celebrates friendship, forgiveness, fun and more. Best for theatergoers 3 and older.
Ayanna Bria Bakari and Saran Bakari in rehearsal for “Big White Fog.” Credit: Joe Mazza
‘Big White Fog’
Sept. 12-Oct.12
Court Theatre, 5535 S. Ellis Ave.
The Court Theatre will present “Big White Fog” by Theodore Ward, which follows the struggling Mason family during the cusp of the Great Depression. Resident artist Ron OJ Parson directs the story of the Mason family as they strive to secure their future, facing the state of the economy and racial violence on the South Side.
Credit: Instagram
‘Wish You Were Here’
Sept. 18-Oct. 19
Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont Ave.
The Remy Bumppo Think Theater celebrates 30 years with “Wish You Were Here,” the story of a tight circle of girlfriends who attempt to hang on to a sense of normalcy in the 1970s as protests break out across Iran. As the revolution escalates, each woman is forced to join a wave of emigration or face an uncertain future in their home country. In its 105-minute run time, the play tells a story of best friends and their chronicles through a decade of intense wartime.
Chicago Shakespeare Theater presents “Rome Sweet Rome,” a wild and satirical new “add-rap-tation” of Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar from Q Brothers Collective (GQ, JQ, JAX and POS). Credit: Jeff Kurysz
‘Rome Sweet Rome’
Sept. 23-Oct. 19
Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E. Grand Ave.
In the world premiere of “Rome Sweet Rome,” the Q Brothers Collective returns to bring their satirical adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic look at political power, “Julius Caesar.” This play blends ’90s hip-hop and New Jack Swing while fusing Shakespeare’s political intrigue and satire in a new style “that bumps, breathes and breaks boundaries.”
‘The Lion King’
Oct. 3-19
Cadillac Palace Theater, 151 W. Randolph St.
Watch “The Lion King” take the stage as Pride Rock makes its return to Chicago. Winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, “The Lion King” retells the Disney classic against the backdrop of amazing visuals that bring Africa to the stage, along with a soundtrack crafted by award-winning artists, including Elton John and Tim Rice.
‘The Book of Mormon’
Oct. 14-19
CIBC Theatre, 18 W. Monroe St.
Follow the misadventures of an unlikely pair of missionaries sent halfway across the world to spread the Good Word in “The Book of Mormon,” which The New York Times called “the best musical of this century.” Grab tickets for a good laugh at this celebrated production, winner of nine Tony awards, including Best Musical.
‘Wyrd’
Oct. 9-26
Greenhouse Theater, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave.
A perfect production to kick off your Halloween season, Lazy Susan Theatre Company will present “Wyrd,” billed as a “witch play for hard times.” “Wyrd” follows three “ageless, timeless, deathless” sisters in a basement in Bushwick “as one of the sisters falls in love, the other in hate and the last does her best to keep them from falling.”
‘Medea’
Oct. 11-26
The Lyric Opera, 20 N. Upper Wacker Drive
The Lyric promises “Hell has no fury like a sorceress scorned” as it brings the epic tale of “Medea” to life this fall. After Medea helps Jason find the golden fleece, she calculates her revenge once he leaves her for the princess of Corinth, culminating in the most devastating acts imaginable. The Lyric’s Music Director Enrique Mazzola leads the podium, and international powerhouse soprano — and Berwyn native — Sondra Radvanovsky inhabits the demanding title role.
“Mr. Wolf” kicks off Steppenwolf’s fall season with the story of a family torn apart by a kidnapping and its aftermath. Credit: Joel Moorman
‘Mr. Wolf‘
Sept. 11-Nov. 2
Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St.
Steppenwolf is keeping it all in-company for its season opener, “Mr. Wolf,” which traces the story of a home torn apart by a kidnapping — that then must re-align when their daughter returns. “Mr. Wolf” was written by ensemble member Rajiv Joseph and directed by ensemble member K. Todd Freeman, with company cast members including Tim Hopper and Caroline Neff (most recently spied in “Fool for Love”) along with Kate Arrington, Namir Smallwood and Emilie Maureen Hanson in her Steppenwolf debut.
“Drunk Dracula” debuts at The Lion Theater Downtown this month. Credit: Provided
Sept. 24-Nov. 2
The Lion Theatre, 182 N. Wabash Ave.
We all know Dracula’s preferred beverage, but what if he changes it up a bit? The creative minds behind “Drunk Shakespeare” are now offering “Drunk Dracula” for the Halloween season. As with the original, one actor gets drunk, the others try to survive and familiar stories take on a unique, booze-soaked twist. In this version, Dracula is ready to leave his castle to take on Chicago; naturally, vampire-inspired craft cocktails will be available throughout the performance.
The cast of A Red Orchid Theatre’s world premiere of Veal includes (left to right) Jasper Johnson, Alice Wu, Jojo Brown, Carmia Imani and Alexandra Chopson. Credit: Travis A. Knight
Sept. 25-Nov. 2
A Red Orchid Theatre, 1531 N. Wells St.
Red Orchid kicks off its 33rd anniversary season with this world premiere of Jojo Jones’ dystopian dark comedy. After a violent coup, Chelsea becomes queen of North America. She’s visited by three former friends from middle school who want a big favor. But Chelsea now has the power, and she is going to make the group revisit the terrible end of their young friendship.
‘Click Clack, Boo!’
Oct. 4-Nov. 2
Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave.
Join Duck, Pig, Cow and Hen as they plan for their Halloween party in “Click Clack, Boo!,” an adaptation of the beloved children’s picture book written by Doreen Cronin and illustrated by Betsy Lewin. When Farmer Brown refuses to participate in Halloween festivities for the year, the farm animals resort to trickery to enjoy the holiday treats. Recommended for kids 5 and older.
‘Paranormal Activity’
Oct. 8-Nov. 2
Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E. Grand Ave.
Chicago Shakespeare takes on a production that’s probably even more terrifying in person than the horror film series it’s based on. Enjoy this thrill-filled play from Chicago playwright Levi Holloway that follows James and Lou, who move from Chicago to London to escape their past and find themselves in terrifying circumstances in the “Paranormal Activity” universe.
‘The Sound of Music’
Oct. 21-Nov. 2
James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St.
As fans of the classic 1965 film are aware, “The Sound of Music” follows the tale of Maria, the nun who chooses to follow her heart as she pursues the full life ahead of her. Featuring a critically acclaimed soundtrack by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, enjoy this classic with its themes of love, resilience and the power of music — and a plethora of now-familiar songs.
Oct. 4-Nov. 9
Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St.
Rage Against the Machine founder and Libertyville native Tom Morello has crafted the score for “Revolution(s),” the story of a soldier who returns to Chicago from Afghanistan — only to find the South Side is also occupied territory. Morello is known for using music as a vehicle for political protest, and he uses his skills here to create what the Goodman is calling “a ground-breaking new punk/metal/hip-hop musical,” likely to be one of the don’t-miss highlights of the season.
‘Leo Lionni’s Frederick’
Sept. 27-Nov. 16
Chicago Children’s Theatre, 100 S. Racine Ave.
Based on Leo Lionni’s Caldecott-winning picture book, this musical production tells the story of Frederick, a mouse who does not spend his time gathering food for the winter and daydreams the summer away. Nevertheless, when the fall comes around, Frederick manages to prepare something special for the cold winter for his friends. Recommended for ages 4 and older.
‘A Devil Comes To Town’
Nov. 6-22
Trap Door Theatre, 1655 W. Cortland St.
“A Devil Comes to Town” follows the sudden arrival of a mysterious, devilish publisher that sets off a series of unfortunate events in a town that’s obsessed with writing. All hell breaks loose in this play as literary ambition turns feral throughout the town.
‘Hell’s Kitchen’
Nov. 11-30
James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St.
Based on the early years of international superstar Alicia Keys, the Tony Award-winning “Hell’s Kitchen” follows the story of 17-year-old Ali as she searches for her place in the world and longs for a better life. During her journey of self-discovery, Ali meets the mentor who changes her life, her family and the neighborhood that helps her grow.
‘A Beautiful Noise – The Neil Diamond Musical’
Nov. 19-30
Cadillac Palace Theater, 151 W. Randolph St.
“A Beautiful Noise – The Neil Diamond Musical” returns this year by popular demand to tell the history of the legendary pop star and songwriter. The musical follows the true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart-topping American rock icon. Enjoy Neil Diamond favorites like “Sweet Caroline” and “Solitary Man” through an energetic retelling of his career in this jukebox musical.
‘Jekyll & Hyde, the Musical’
Oct. 10-Dec. 21
Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division St.
Kokandy Productions brings back a classic terrifying tale just in time for the Halloween season with the musical “Jekyll & Hyde.” Based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s 1886 novella about a two-sided personality, “The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,” this will be the first Chicago staging of the musical in over 15 years.
‘Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol’
Nov. 28-Dec. 21
Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave.
Witness the beloved Charles Dickens’ “Christmas Carol” from a different viewpoint as Scrooge gets the chance to change his ways with advice from his former partner, Jacob Marley, in this one-man performance.
‘A Year with Frog and Toad’
Nov. 29-Dec.21
Greenhouse Theater, 2257 N. Lincoln Ave.
Enjoy a jazzy, upbeat musical with “A Year with Frog and Toad,” based on Arnold Lobel’s beloved tales of these lifelong friends. This holiday musical follows Frog and Toad through the seasons whether they are baking cookies, planting a garden, flying kites or celebrating the holidays.
The 18-person cast of Steppenwolf’s production of “Amadeus.” Credit: Provided
‘Amadeus’
Nov. 6-Jan. 4
Steppenwolf Theatre, 1646 N. Halsted St.
Steppenwolf continues its 50th anniversary season with a blockbuster: Ensemble member Ian Barford and David Darrow (in his Steppenwolf debut) will lead the 18-member cast as rival composers Antonio Salieri and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, respectively, whose fates are intertwined as their careers rise and fall. The Oscar- and Tony Award-winning production will be directed by Tony Award winner Robert Falls, also making his Steppenwolf debut.
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