From comedy and drama to musicals and dance, Chicago’s stages are alive with vibrant productions.
Looking for a night out at one of the many theaters throughout the Chicago area? Here are some highlights for the week ahead:
PICK OF THE WEEK
“Queen of the Mist”: Michael John LaChiusa’s musical is based on the astounding story of 62-year-old Anna Edson Taylor who in 1901 became the first and oldest person to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel. Earlier this month the New York Times fascinating Overlooked Obituaries series referred to Taylor’s decision as “a moment of unequivocal courage and questionable decision-making.” For his take on her daring feat, LaChiusa incorporates themes of the time with a portrait of an obsessive woman who finds here fleeting 15 minutes of fame. The cast features the always-stellar Barbara Robertson as Taylor with Maryam Abdi, Neala Barron, Brianna Buckley, Max J. Cervantes, Liz Chidester and Hannah Starr portraying multiple characters; Elizabeth Margolius directs. Previews begin May 25, opens May 28; to July 6. Firebrand Theatre at The Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee, $55; firebrandtheatre.org
MORE PREVIEWS AND OPENINGS:
“Clued In - An Improvised Murder Mystery”: A one-act, long-form show that combines the intrigue of classic murder mysteries with the skills of some of Chicago’s best improvisers. Opens May 25, to Aug. 10. Judy’s Beat Lounge at The Second City, 1608 N. Wells, $13; secondcity.com
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“Emma”: Phil Timberlake’s intimate adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel about a young woman who inserts herself into the love lives of everyone around her; directed by Elise Kauzlaric. Previews begin May 24, opens June 2; to July 14. Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood, $40; lifelinetheatre.com
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“Falsettos”: William Finn and James Lapine’s musical that looks at the infinite possibilities that make up a modern family; directed by Lapine. Preview May 28, opens May 29; to June 9. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph, $27-$98; broadwayinchicago.com
“Four Places”: In Joel Drake Johnson’s drama, a mother confronts the indignities of age while her children stare down a mounting list of losses and disappointments; directed by Lia Mortensen. Previews begin May 24; opens May 30; to June 30. The Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee, $45; thedentheatre.com
“Desire in a Tinier House”: World premiere of Ryan Oliveira’s two-character drama about the challenges of maintaining loving gay relationships amidst societal forces aimed at attacking them; directed by Topher Leon. Previews begin May 30, opens June 4; to June 29. Pride Films and Plays, Pride Arts Center, 4147 N. Broadway, $30, $40; pridefilmsandplays.com
Mary Houlihan is a local freelance writer.
