Displaying items by tag: Broadway in Chicago

Brace yourself for the scare of a lifetime, as the world of Insidious jumps off the screen and directly into your theater seat with "INSIDIOUS: THE FURTHER YOU FEAR" – a live immersive horror experience that will bring your darkest fears to life right before your eyes, based on the box office hit horror film franchise from Blumhouse, director James Wan, and writer Leigh Whannell. GEA Live, Blumhouse, Sony Pictures Entertainment, and RoadCo Entertainment have joined forces to unveil a spine-tingling, live immersive show that will haunt 80+ seated theaters across North America in 2025 including Broadway In Chicago's CIBC Theatre (18 W. Monroe) on February 14 & 15, 2025 with performances at 7:30PM each.

Individual tickets go on sale to the general public Friday, October 25, 2024 at 10 AM, and will be available for purchase at BroadwayInChicago.com. Ticket prices range from $40.00 - $105.00, with a select number of premium seats available for all performances. Groups of 10+ can be purchased now by calling (312) 977-1710 or by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Subscribers can add tickets to their package by logging onto their account. For more details, visit BroadwayInChicago.com.

"INSIDIOUS: THE FURTHER YOU FEAR" is a heart-pounding live theatrical experience where the lines between reality and fiction blur, constantly challenging what's real and what's imagined, what's safe and what's dangerous. This groundbreaking immersive experience is meticulously crafted to always keep the audience on edge, with no fourth wall to separate them -or protect them- from the unfolding terror. Each attendee will go face-to-face with the protagonists, making the audience an integral character in the chilling story as it unravels.

"We have brought some of the most respected names in the horror and entertainment industries together to make this groundbreaking show possible and ensure a hauntingly unforgettable experience for audiences everywhere," says Floris Douwes from GEA Live. "We're excited to bring the eerie and otherworldly thrills of 'Insidious' to cities around the country," says Co-Director Toby Park. Park, who is also composing the original music for the show, and Co-Director Aitor Basauri are artistic directors for Spymonkey, and serve as creative directors for "INSIDIOUS: THE FURTHER YOU FEAR."

"Bringing audiences deeper into The Further with this live experience has been an exciting challenge, and I'm really looking forward to seeing how they respond," said Jason Blum, Founder/CEO, Blumhouse. "Insidious is one of our most popular franchises, with a sixth installment premiering next year, and this is a fresh and frightening new way for fans to experience it."

"INSIDIOUS: THE FURTHER YOU FEAR" is an exciting new story conceived within the Insidious universe. Hosted as a live event by the "real" Specs and Tucker, the actual paranormal investigators who inspired the first movie, the "Spectral Sightings Road Show" soon takes a turn for the terrifying. As the infamous duo desperately try to prove they are legitimate ghost-hunters, things start to become very Insidious when a paranormal demonstration goes wrong and dark forces are inadvertently unleashed. Trapped in a genuinely haunted theatre, with something truly sinister lurking back-stage, the audience will find themselves under attack from such iconic characters as the Bride in Black, the Wheezing Man and, of course, the terrifying Lipstick Faced Demon. But what's real? What's the show? And who are you really sitting next to?

The house is full. The stage is set. And the Red Door is about to open.

The iconic "Insidious" franchise, consistently gaining momentum over the years, is a box office sensation generating more than $742 million in revenue across five highly successful films. The growing legion of fans includes an active community of five million social media followers. However, while the show is a must for Insidious fans, it's also created for those who don't know the films, particularly those who love a fun, thrill-filled night out at the theatre.

For tickets, tour dates, and more information, visit www.insidious-live.com and follow Insidious on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

About GEA Live

Since its inception in 2003, GEA Live has delivered innovative live entertainment projects in more than 40 countries, becoming a global leader in the location-based entertainment sector. GEA Live has closely cooperated with the legend Maestro Ennio Morricone (representing him exclusively for all live touring) as well as with icons of music film industry such as James Newton Howard, Giorgio Moroder and George Fenton. In addition to producing live cinematic experiences such as the Johnny Cash Official Concert Experience or Elvis Live On Screen, GEA Live has produced live screenings with orchestra and choir of major motion pictures such as Spider-Man, Dirty Dancing, The Godfather, Titanic, La La Land, Twilight, The Hunger Games, Paddington and Amadeus. This journey has led to fruitful collaborations with renowned studios and IP giants such as Lionsgate, Viacom, Sony Pictures, Warner Brothers, and other global leaders in the branded entertainment landscape, earning GEA Live its well-deserved position as the most reliable and trusted partner for location-based entertainment projects worldwide.

About RoadCo

RoadCo Entertainment is a producing and distribution agency specializing in live entertainment experiences. Formed in 2020, RoadCo is a collaboration between Sony Music Entertainment and independent touring entrepreneurs Stephen Lindsay and Brett Sirota, co-founders of The Road Company, a leading independent theatrical booking agency. RoadCo represents a broad roster of live events based on popular brands and pre-existing intellectual properties, as well as all-new immersive, interactive attractions for viewers of all ages.

About Spymonkey

Spymonkey is the UK's leading physical comedy ensemble led by co-artistic directors Aitor Basauri and Toby Park. The have been making 'Theatre of the Funny' since 1998. With their dark, edgy physical comedy rooted 'somewhere between Monty Python, the Marx Brothers and Samuel Beckett' (The Houston Chronicle), Spymonkey have proved to be a truly international phenomenon, enjoyed by and accessible to, a wide range of international audiences from Cirque du Soleil Las Vegas to Sydney Opera House, from London's West End to Just For Laughs Montreal. Recent years have seen the company growing in new directions as their creative focus has shifted from performing to creating and producing Spymonkey shows, as well as an extensive international training programme. In 2023 they directed Orpheus in the Underworld, a first full-scale opera at the Volksoper in Vienna, and their first show for children, Hairy in London. Spymonkey also have an extensive programme of workshops and training opportunities in the UK and abroad, particularly through a thriving network in the USA.

Spymonkey's associate, theatre and screenwriter, and a self-confirmed horror film obsessive Carl Grose will be co-writing Insidious: The Further You Fear.

About Blumhouse

Blumhouse is the driving force in horror, producing over 200 movies and television series with theatrical grosses of almost $6 billion in global box office. Blumhouse is home to the highest number of ongoing franchises of any studio, including Halloween, The Purge, The Black Phone, Paranormal Activity, The Exorcist, Insidious, M3GAN, and Five Nights at Freddy's, along with iconic films from cinematic visionaries including Jordan Peele's Get Out, Damien Chazelle's Whiplash and Spike Lee's BlacKkKlansman. In January 2024, Blumhouse merged with James Wan's Atomic Monster, which has produced its own successful film franchises including The Conjuring, Aquaman , Annabelle, The Nun and Saw.

In addition to film, Blumhouse produces provocative scripted and unscripted television series and documentaries, including the upcoming original series The Sticky, produced by Jamie Lee Curtis for Amazon; The Bondsman, starring Kevin Bacon and from creator Grainger David and showrunner Erik Oleson, also for Amazon; Worst Roommate Ever for Netflix; and The Jinx for HBO. The company also recently launched a games division.

Blumhouse was honored by Fast Company as one of its Most Innovative Companies in 2024 and one of its Brands That Matter in 2023. The company is investing in its brand development and connection with audiences through its consistent presence at Universal Studios' annual Halloween Horror Nights, its first Halfway to Halloween Film Festival with AMC and its upcoming transformation of an exhibit space at the iconic Stanley Hotel from The Shining.

About Sony Pictures Entertainment

Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Group Corporation. SPE's global operations encompass motion picture production, acquisition, and distribution; television production, acquisition, and distribution; television networks; digital content creation and distribution; operation of studio facilities; and development of new entertainment products, services and technologies. Sony Pictures Television operates dozens of wholly-owned or joint-venture production companies around the world. SPE's Motion Picture Group production organizations include Columbia Pictures, Screen Gems, TriStar Pictures, 3000 Pictures, Sony Pictures Animation, Stage 6 Films, AFFIRM Films, Sony Pictures International Productions, and Sony Pictures Classics. 

About Broadway In Chicago

Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 25 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country. A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago's Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, James M. Nederlander Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at the Auditorium Theatre.

For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com

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Broadway In Chicago is delighted to announce the return engagement of THE BOOK OF MORMON, the nine-time Tony Award-winning Best Musical, is now playing with a lottery! Fans can now participate in a digital lottery for a chance to purchase $25 tickets, available for all performances running September 10-15. Entries open at 9 a.m. CT the day before each performance and close at 5 p.m. CT each day. Winners will be notified via email shortly after entries close and will have just one hour to secure their tickets. Seat locations may vary per performance. Enter the lottery at https://bit.ly/BIC25drawing.

In addition to the lottery, a limited number of $49 day-of-show Rush tickets will be available for all performances throughout the run. Patrons can purchase a maximum of two Rush tickets per person, exclusively at the Cadillac Palace Theatre Box Office. Please note, Rush tickets must be purchased in person, and box office hours are updated weekly at https://bit.ly/BIC_BOhours.

Don't miss your chance to experience this critically acclaimed musical during its strictly limited engagement of 8 performances at Broadway In Chicago's Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W. Randolph) from September 10 through September 15. Additional ticket information and the performance schedule are provided below.

THE BOOK OF MORMON features book, music and lyrics by Trey Parker, Robert Lopez and Matt Stone. The Broadway production is directed by Parker and two-time Tony Award winner Casey Nicholaw and choreographed by Nicholaw. The tour is directed and choreographed by Jennifer Werner based on the original Broadway direction and choreography. Set design is by three-time Tony Award winner Scott Pask, costume design is by Tony Award winner Ann Roth, lighting design is by five-time Tony Award winner Brian MacDevitt, sound design is by two-time Tony Award winner Brian Ronan, and hair design is by Josh Marquette. Orchestrations are by Tony Award winner Larry Hochman and two-time Tony Award winner Stephen Oremus. Music supervision and vocal arrangements are by Stephen Oremus. Casting is by Carrie Gardner.

Since opening on March 24, 2011, THE BOOK OF MORMON has become one of the most successful shows in Broadway history, breaking the Eugene O'Neill Theatre house record more than 50 times. In addition to nine Tony Awards including Best Musical and the Grammy for Best Musical Theatre Album, THE BOOK OF MORMON won five Drama Desk Awards including Best Musical, the NY Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Musical, the Drama League Award for Best Musical and four Outer Critics Circle Awards including Best Musical.

The West End production opened in February 2013, winning four Olivier Awards including Best New Musical, and breaking the record for the highest single day of sales in West End history. The first-ever UK and European tour launched in Manchester in June 2019, winning 'Best Theatre Show' at the Manchester Evening News City Life Awards before touring throughout the UK and Europe.

THE BOOK OF MORMON has been performed on three continents and has won over 30 international awards. The musical has smashed long-standing box office records in New York, London, Melbourne, Sydney and in cities across the U.S. and the world.

The Original Broadway Cast Recording for THE BOOK OF MORMON, winner of the 2011 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album, is available on Ghostlight Records.

NETWORKS PRESENTATIONS (Producer) is an industry-leading producer of touring theatrical productions, committed to delivering quality entertainment to audiences worldwide for more than 25 years. www.networkstours.com

For more information, visit thebookofmormontour.com

TICKET INFORMATION

Individual ticket prices range from $40.00 to $160.00 with a select number of premium seats available and may be purchased at www.BroadwayInChicago.com. Tickets for groups of 10 or more will be available by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710 or emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

Tuesday, Sep. 10 at 7:00 PM

Wednesday, Sep. 11 at 7:00 PM

Thursday, Sep. 12 at 7:00 PM

Friday, Sep. 13 at 7:30 PM

Saturday, Sep. 14 at 2:00 PM

Saturday Sep. 14 at 7:30 PM

Sunday, Sep. 15 at 1:00 PM

Sunday, Sep. 15 at 6:30 PM

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO

Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 24 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country. A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago's Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, James M. Nederlander Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the BroadwayPlayhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at the Auditorium Theatre.

For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Follow @broadwayinchicago on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok  #broadwayinchicago

Broadway In Chicago is pleased to announce the Golden Snitch Digital Lottery for the upcoming engagement of HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD.

For the Tuesday, September 10 performance, Golden Snitch Digital Lottery will open at 9:00 a.m. CT on Thursday, September 5 and close on Monday, September 9 at 5:00 p.m. CT.

For subsequent performances, Golden Snitch Digital Lottery will open at 9:00 a.m. CT and close at 5:00 p.m. CT the day prior to the desired performance.

Each winner is allowed to purchase up to two (2) tickets at $40 each. Those who would like to enter the lottery, can do so, here.

HOW TO ENTER

• A minimum of ten (10) tickets for every performance will be available for purchase at $40 each.
• Winner and non-winner notifications will be sent by email within one (1) hour of the closing of the lottery at 5:00 p.m. local time the day prior to the desired performance date. Winners will have one (1) hour to claim and pay for the number of tickets included in their winner notification.
• No purchase or payment is necessary to enter nor does a purchase increase the chance of winning.
• Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received for the Digital Lottery.
• Only one (1) entry per person. Repeat entries and disposable email addresses will be discarded.
• $40 Tickets must be picked up at will call beginning two (2) hours prior to the performance with a valid photo ID.
• $40 Tickets are void if resold.

ADDITIONAL RULES

Patrons must be 18 years or older who, when entering the Digital Lottery from outside Illinois, are making the entry from a state that permits the running of a Digital Lottery, and must have a valid, non-expired photo ID that matches the name used to enter. $40 tickets are non-transferable. $40 ticket limits and prices displayed are at the sole discretion of the show and are subject to change without notice.

$40 ticket prices are not valid on prior purchases. $40 ticket offer cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. All $40 ticket sales final – no refunds or exchanges will be permitted.

A $5.00 handling fee will be added to the price of each ticket at the time of checkout.

The Digital Lottery may be revoked or modified at any time without notice.

The Digital Lottery is conducted in accordance with the Illinois Prizes and Gifts Act, 815 Ill. Comp. Stat. 525/1 et seq., and is void where otherwise prohibited by law, or where the Digital Lottery's sponsor would be required to register or be restricted in any other way, or where the Digital Lottery's sponsor may not have yet complied with registration or other requirements.  Participation in the Digital Lottery constitutes the entrant's full and unconditional agreement to and acceptance of these rules and the full Digital Lottery terms and conditions available here.

Previews begin for the six-time Tony® Award-winning production, HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD, on September 10 at Broadway In Chicago's James M. Nederlander Theatre. The official opening will be Thursday, September 26. The final performance of the 21-week engagement will be Saturday, February 1, 2025. 

The touring production is based on the acclaimed Broadway production, currently playing at the Lyric Theatre, New York. It picks up right where the last Harry Potter film left off: Nineteen years after Harry, Ron, and Hermione saved the wizarding world, they're back on a most extraordinary new adventure – this time, joined by a brave new generation that has only just arrived at the legendary Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. When Harry Potter's head-strong son Albus befriends the son of his fiercest rival, Draco Malfoy, it sparks an unbelievable new journey for them all—with the power to change the past and future forever.  

HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD, the first Harry Potter story to be presented on stage and the eighth story in the Harry Potter series, has sold over 10 million tickets worldwide since its world premiere in London in July 2016 and holds a record 60 major honors, with nine Laurence Olivier Awards including Best New Play and six Tony Awards including Best Play. The international phenomenon has cast its spell worldwide with productions currently running in London, New York, Hamburg, and Tokyo, and has completed runs in Melbourne, Toronto, and San Francisco. The original two-part production in London's West End recently celebrated its 7th anniversary, while the reimagined Broadway production celebrated its 6th anniversary. 

The most successful non-musical play in Broadway history, HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD has the unique distinction of being named by the Guinness World Records as the highest-grossing non-musical play in Broadway history with over $270 million total sales and over 2.5 million tickets sold.

To stay up to date with the latest information, go to tour.harrypottertheplay.com.

ABOUT HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD

Based on an original story by J.K. Rowling, Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD is a play by Jack Thorne, directed by John Tiffany. 

HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD features movement by Steven Hoggett, set by Christine Jones, costumes by Katrina Lindsay, music & arrangements by Imogen Heap, lighting by Neil Austin, sound by Gareth Fry, illusions & magic by Jamie Harrison, music supervision & arrangements by Martin Lowe. US Casting by Jim Carnahan, CSA. 

HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD is produced by Sonia Friedman Productions, Colin Callender and Harry Potter Theatrical Productions. 

Instagram: @CursedChildUS ● Twitter: @CursedChildTour ● Facebook: @CursedChildUS ● TikTok: @CursedChildOfficial

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO

Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 24 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country. A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago's Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, James M. Nederlander Theatre, Auditorium Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place.

For more information and tickets, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Facebook @BroadwayInChicago ● Instagram @broadwayinchicago ● TikTok @broadwayinchicago ● #broadwayinchicago

Broadway In Chicago is excited to announce FAIRYTALE OF NEW YORK will play Broadway In Chicago's Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place (175 E. Chestnut St.) for a limited engagement on December 17 and 18. Group tickets for 10 or more are on sale now by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710 or emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Individual tickets will go on sale Friday, August 23.

After three phenomenal years of sold-out tours in prestigious venues across Ireland, the UK and Europe, Prestige Chameleon International and Cuffe & Taylor are thrilled to bring FAIRYTALE OF NEW YORK to the USA under the exclusive representation of 33 & West Talent Agency.

The popular festive concert, in partnership with Tourism Ireland, will visit cities including Boston, New York, Chicago, Washington DC, Madison, Indianapolis and many more in December THIS YEAR, forming your official start to the Christmas season.

Come and see why fans and theatre critics alike are saying "This is the premiere production of its kind." Experience the ultimate Irish-inspired Christmas concert straight from the heart of Ireland and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Irish culture with soulful music and Irish dancing performed by seasoned touring musicians, steeped in Celtic heritage.

The creator and producer of FAIRYTALE OF NEW YORK, Ged Graham, explains: "The success of Fairytale of New York in Ireland, the United Kingdom and Europe has been both humbling and extraordinary."

"It has been an honour to work in partnership with Tourism Ireland since the creation of this show and we're excited to embark on a new adventure to the USA. The team is working on an even bigger production for 2024, full of festive fun and Irish craic!"

Bringing authenticity, revelry and reverence to every show - you can expect festive favourites alongside the greatest traditional Irish sing-along songs of all time. This stunning show features everything from joyous jigs and boisterous ballads to hauntingly beautiful carols and holiday cheer, as we bring an unforgettable experience from the emerald hills of Ireland to the stages of America!  

More information can be found on the official website at: www.fairytaleofnewyork.co.uk

Facebook: @fairytaleofNY

Instagram: @fairytaleny

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

Performances are on Tuesday, December 17 and Wednesday, December 18 at 7:00 p.m. For more information visit BroadwayInChicago.com.

TICKET INFORMATION

Individual tickets prices will range from $30 - $90 with a select number of premium tickets available. Individual tickets are available starting Friday, August 23 by visiting www.BroadwayInChicago.com or going to any Broadway In Chicago venue box office.  Groups of 10+ are also on sale by calling (312) 977-1710 or by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO

Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 24 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country. A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago's Loop including the  Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, James M. Nederlander Theatre, Auditorium Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway  Playhouse at Water Tower Place.

For more information and tickets, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Facebook @BroadwayInChicago ● Instagram @broadwayinchicago ● TikTok @broadwayinchicago ● #broadwayinchicago

Like the waves lapping along the shores of Lake Michigan, there is another wave that is hitting Chicago; a nostalgia wave. From high waisted jeans, bold neon colors, even scrunchies and side ponytails, the 1980s are riding high in Chicagoland. But it isn’t just Chicago. In the 2020s, the currents of the nostalgia wave have infiltrated every aspect of our culture from movie franchise remakes like Top Gun, to chart topping synthpop-new-wave hits like The Weekend’s Blinding Lights or Dua Lipa’s Love Again. And that same wave is riding high onto the theatre scene bringing a seminal cult classic film to life in the most spectacular way. Gen X and elder millennials buckle up and hold on tight, because we’re going Back to the Future – in musical form. And Back to the Future: The Musical has officially set its destination for Chicago in 2024.

Winner of the 2022 Olivier Award for Best New Musical, four WhatsOnStage Awards, including Best New Musical, and the Broadway World Award for Best New Musical, Back to the Future: The Musical is adapted for the stage by the iconic film’s creators Bob Gale (Back to the Future trilogy) and Robert Zemeckis (Forrest Gump) and directed by the Tony Award®-winner John Rando with original music by multi-Grammy® winners Alan Silvestri (Avengers: Endgame) and Glen Ballard (Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror”), alongside hit songs from the movie including “The Power of Love,” “Johnny B. Goode,” “Earth Angel,” and “Back in Time.”

When Marty McFly is accidentally transported back to 1955 in a time- traveling DeLorean invented by his friend, Dr. Emmett Brown, he accidentally changes the course of history. Before he can return to 1985, Marty must make sure his high school-aged parents fall in love in order to save his own existence. Now he’s in a race against time to fix the present, escape the past, and send himself... back to the future.

The most impressive aspects of this musical aren’t the songs or the familiar storyline but the sheer visual spectacle that is the DeLorean. Using an amalgamation of lights, sound, screens, and immersive and malleable stage designs, you follow the DeLorean has it travels through space and time, the sets seamlessly and breathtakingly transitioning from the 1985 to 1955 and back again. The clocktower scene alone had the audience sitting at the edge of their seats, wondering how the engineers, designers, choreographers, and illusionists pulled off such incredible feats. It was visually stunning and Broadway in Chicago never disappoints with its stage presentation and craft. 

For the nostalgic lovers of the movie, the classic storyline, witty one-liners, and your favorite characters are all here. For musical lovers, you’ll love the classic songs played throughout the play such as “The Power of Love” and “Johnny B Goode,” while tapping your toes to new musical numbers like “Gotta Start Somewhere,” “Pretty Baby,” “Something About That Boy.” For theatre lovers, Burke Swanson as George McFly and Zan Berube as Lorraine Baines, Marty’s parents, look identical to their film counterparts, down to the mannerisms, chemistry, and comedic timing, coupled with their vocal talents, you’ll be rooting for these two to get together faster at the Enchantment Under the Sea dance. Cartreze Tucker, who plays Goldie Wilson/Marvin Berry, steals the audience’s attention with his vocal range and prowess and Don Stephenson who plays the incomparable Doc Brown will have you rolling with laughter with his lingering zingers while he cleverly breaks the 4th wall.

Like any good Doc Brown invention however, Back to the Future: The Musical was a bit glitchy. Technical difficulties like mics cutting out to music being so loud it drowned out the musical talent, ensemble actors simply marking their movements versus performing all out, and some lead actors not hitting their marks at all (or their notes), the musical’s second night definitely had some issues as it got going. But once the plutonium was installed and the flux capacitor was engaged following the first few musical numbers, the musical hit the magic 88 and was able to right the space time continuum. Despite these early challenges, this musical is well worth the trip for the special effects and illusions alone.

Back to the Future is a cult classic that is bound to make many more revivals in future nostalgia waves. With Back to the Future: The Musical now making its national tour, this musical is sure to be a crowd favorite and hopefully replace some outdated or antiquated musicals like The Music Man and Hello Dolly (don’t come for me musical thespians! I said what I said).

Back to the Future: The Musical is now playing at Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W Randolph St). Tickets are available at www.BroadwayinChicago.com. But just like the blip in time it only runs through Sept 1st so don’t miss your opportunity to ride the wave and go back to the future to experience this incredible show.

Broadway In Chicago is thrilled to celebrate its 25th year, marking a quarter-century of bringing world-class theatre to the heart of Chicago. This celebration not only highlights the incredible journey of growth and achievement but also underscores the pivotal role Broadway In Chicago has played in shaping the City's vibrant cultural scene and enlivening it with over 25 million theatregoers.

In July 2000, Broadway In Chicago was established through a landmark partnership led by the Nederlander Organization, marking a significant milestone in Chicago's theatrical history. This collaboration aimed to bring the magic of Broadway to Chicago, enriching its cultural landscape with pre-Broadway and long-run productions.

Broadway In Chicago transformed the Downtown Theatre District. The Loop Business District went from going to sleep after 5 p.m. each night to having up to 1.7 million Broadway theatregoers filling and lighting up the Loop annually. Both in 2000 and coming out of a pandemic shutdown, Broadway In Chicago led the way to enliven the Loop. Today it continues to thrive with more pre-Broadway productions and long-run engagements than ever before...

Reflecting on this milestone, Lou Raizin, President & CEO of Broadway In Chicago, expressed his gratitude: "Chicago has always been a city that embraces the arts and culture with open arms. We are deeply thankful to Chicago whose unwavering support has made these 25 years possible. Together, we have shared countless unforgettable moments and look forward to many more."

Broadway In Chicago's Highlights from the Past 25 Years

July 2000

Broadway In Chicago is formed as a partnership between the Nederlander Organization and SFX Entertainment

November 2000

Pre-Broadway run of Kathleen Turner in Tallulah

February 2001

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of The Producers: The New Mel Brooks Musical

May 2001

Pre-Broadway run of Mamma Mia!

June 2001

Pre-Broadway run of Tom Selleck in A Thousand Clowns

December 2001

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of John Lithgow in Sweet Smell Of Success

June 2002

Broadway In Chicago's first free concert in Grant Park – "Broadway Rocks Chicago"

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of Billy Joel & Twyla Tharp's Movin' Out

November 2002

Disney's The Lion King goes on sale with record-breaking 18-Hour Event

April 2003

Disney's The Lion King begins nine-month run

December 2004

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of Monty Python's Spamalot  

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of All Shook Up

February 2005

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of Christina Applegate in Sweet Charity

March 2005

Chicago's fastest-selling musical, Wicked, announces Broadway In Chicago's first sit-down, long-run production to begin in June 2005

November 2005

Record-breaking run of Billy Crystal in 700 Sundays

May 2006

Shubert Theatre Restoration complete - opens as LaSalle Bank Theatre; inaugurated with performance by Michael Crawford

June 2006

Over 365 Witches celebrate Wicked's official First Anniversary in Water Tower Park

October 2006

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of The Pirate Queen

January 2007

BIC Economic Impact Press Conference with Mayor Daley

«   Annual economic impact of nearly $750 million

«   Total annual attendance: 1.7 million theater patrons

«   Over 42% of audiences travel to Chicago from out of state

«   Approximately 88% of long-run show attendees surveyed cite a Broadway In Chicago show as the primary purpose for their visit

«   Broadway In Chicago theatre patrons occupy over 640,000 hotel room nights per year; that is 7% of the occupied hotel room nights in Chicago annually

«   Broadway In Chicago patrons spend approximately $90 million at local restaurants while visiting the area

«   Broadway In Chicago productions support more than 9,200 jobs in the city of Chicago

April 2007

Oprah Winfrey Presents The Color Purple National Tour Launch with Oprah Winfrey in attendance

May 2007

League of Chicago Theatres awards Broadway In Chicago with the League's 2007 Leadership Award

League of Chicago Theatres announces The House Theatre of Chicago as the first recipient of the newly created "Broadway In Chicago Emerging Theatre Award"

June 2007

Over 365 Witches celebrate Wicked's Second Anniversary in Water Tower Park

July 2007

Then-Senator Barack Obama attends Oprah Winfrey Presents The Color Purple

August 2007

Michelle Obama and family attend a performance of High School Musical

October 2007

Jersey Boys sit-down production opens for two-year long run

November 2007

Wicked reaches 1,000 performances

June 2008

Over 365 Witches celebrate Wicked's Third Anniversary in Millennium Park

October 2008

Jersey Boys First Anniversary celebrated with city-wide pizza party

January 2009

Wicked closes after 3 ½ years and 1500 performances

March 2009

Disney and Cameron Mackintosh present Mary Poppins launches National Tour at the Cadillac Palace Theatre

June 2009

Jersey Boys welcomes 1,000,000th patron

October 2009

Jersey Boys celebrates Second Anniversary with Mayor Daley and Chicagoland mayors

Over 1,000 guests sport green ears during the special sneak peek of Shrek The Musical at the Cadillac Palace Theatre

December 2009

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of The Addams Family starring Nathan Lane and Bebe Neuwirth

January 2010

Final Jersey Boys Performance after over two years and 1.3 million patrons

April 2010

Broadway In Chicago announces Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place

Billy Elliot: The Musical National Tour Premiere – star-studded opening night with Elton John & Oprah Winfrey in attendance

June 2010

Broadway In Chicago's eighth free Concert in Grant Park celebrates 10 years of Broadway In Chicago

July 2010

Broadway In Chicago's official 10-Year Anniversary

Shrek The Musical National Tour Premiere

September 2010

Broadway Playhouse opens with An Evening with Sutton Foster

January 2011

Dolly Parton visits Broadway In Chicago with 9 to 5 the Musical

February 2011

Working revival, based on Studs Terkel's book composed by Stephen Schwartz, opens at the Broadway Playhouse

Broadway In Chicago hosts final Chicago mayoral debate between Rahm Emanuel, Gery Chico, Carol Moseley Braun and Miguel Del Valle at Oriental Theatre

November 2011

Pre-Broadway Engagement of Ann – The Ann Richards Play starring Holland Taylor

March 2012

Pre-Broadway run of Bring It On: The Musical

May 2012

Illinois High School Musical Theatre Awards created

October 2012

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of Kinky Boots starring Billy Porter (Tony Award Winner for Kinky Boots – Best Leading Actor in a Musical)

December 2012

The Book of Mormon National Tour Premiere starring Ben Platt and Nic Rouleau. The Second National Tour kicked off in Chicago and ran for 43 weeks.

April 2013

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of Big Fish starring Norbert Leo Butz and Kate Baldwin

April 2014

Motown the Musical National Tour Premiere

May 2014

Buyer & Cellar, starring Michael Urie, plays the Broadway Playhouse for six weeks

June 2014

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of The Last Ship with music and lyrics by Sting

October 2014

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of Amazing Grace

November 2014

World Premiere of Dee Snider's Rock & Roll Christmas Tale starring Dee Snider

June 2015

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan with the songs of Gloria Estefan and Miami Sound Machine

December 2015

Beautiful: The Carole King Musical - 12-week long-run engagement

World Premiere of Gotta Dance starring André De Shields, Georgia Engel, Stefanie Powers and Lillias White

June 2016

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of The SpongeBob Musical

September 2016

Hamilton – Chicago's sit-down, long run engagement is first outside of NYC. Lin-Manuel Miranda attends opening night in September 2016. The 3+ year engagement ends January 2020.

April 2017

Aladdin National Tour launches at the Cadillac Palace and runs for 22 weeks

November 2017

Pre-Broadway tour of Escape To Margaritaville featuring Jimmy Buffett songs

«   Full Cast of Escape To Margaritaville performs live on Michigan Avenue for the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

«   Lin-Manuel Miranda attends Escape To Margaritaville and performs with Jimmy Buffett

March 2018

Pre-Broadway World Premiere Pretty Woman the Musical

June 2018

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of The Cher Show starring Stephanie J. Block (Tony Award winner for The Cher Show – Best Actress in a Musical)

«   Cher attends The Cher Show

September 2018

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of Tootsie starring Santino Fontana (Tony Award winner for Tootsie – Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical)

February 2019

Dear Evan Hansen inaugurates the newly dedicated James M. Nederlander Theatre, renamed from the Oriental Theatre

July 2019

Broadway In Chicago introduces a new theatrical venue, Spiegeltent ZaZou, in the Theatre District for Teatro ZinZanni 

September 2019

Oslo – TimeLine Theatre Company Regional Theatre Premiere at the Broadway Playhouse

March 2020 – September 2021

COVID 19 closure for 18 months

«   Shows that Closed: What The Constitution Means To Me

«   Shows that we Missed:

The Bachelor Live, Keane, The Choir Of Man, Once Upon A One More Time (Pre-Broadway World Premiere), The Office: A Musical Parody, Waitress, The Crown Live!, Goshen Deeply Rooted, Lisa Lampanelli's Losin' It!, Dear Evan Hansen, Some Like It Hot (Pre-Broadway World Premiere)

October 2021

Post-COVID – Broadway In Chicago re-opens theatres with sold-out engagement of RENT at the CIBC Theatre beginning October 5, 2021

November 2021

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of Paradise Square starring Joaquina Kalukango (Tony Award winner for Paradise Square – Best Actress in a Musical)

Disney's Frozen – Nine-week long-run engagement

December 2021

The Play That Goes Wrong – Sit-down, long run production at the Broadway Playhouse

March 2022

Moulin Rouge! The Musical National Tour Premiere

Six National Tour Premiere

July 2022

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of The Devil Wears Prada

«   Elton John attends The Devil Wears Prada

October 2022

The Twenty-Sided Tavern - New work based on Dungeons & Dragons plays the Broadway Playhouse for 11 weeks

April 2023

Into the Woods starring Montego Glover, Stephanie J. Block, Sebastian Arcelus, and Gavin Creel.

August 2023

MJ National Tour Premiere

October 2023

Pre-Broadway Engagement of A Wonderful World starring James Monroe Iglehart

November 2023

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of Boop! The Betty Boop Musical introducing Jasmine Amy Rogers

Pre-Broadway Engagement of The Wiz

Boop! The Musical and Hamilton perform on top of the Wrigley Building for the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, broadcast nationwide

April 2024

Pre-Broadway World Premiere of Death Becomes Her starring Megan Hilty, Jennifer Simard, Christopher Sieber and Michelle Williams

How I Learned What I Learned starring Harry Lennix – Congo Square Theatre's regional premiere at the Broadway Playhouse

May 2024

Illinois High School Musical Theatre Awards (IHSMTA) celebrates 13 years of programs, with 80 schools participating and impacting over 6500 students and eight Alumni of the program on Broadway

June 2024

Pride Parade - Broadway In Chicago participates in more than 10 years of Pride Parades

August 2024

21 Free Summer Concerts, attracting nearly 20,000 people each year to Millennium Park. The 2024 Concert will kick off Broadway In Chicago's 25th year

September 2024

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child North American Tour Premiere

April 2025

Titanique – Porchlight Music Theatre regional premiere at the Broadway Playhouse

Pre-Broadway World Premiere Ali the Musical

July 2025

Disney's Beauty and the Beast launches 30th Anniversary Tour at the Cadillac Palace Theatre

Broadway In Chicago:

The largest Broadway Theatre Market outside of NYC

Entertaining over 25 Million People

In 25 years:

«   Over 35 Pre-Broadway engagements

«   Over 565 productions

«   Over 2500 weeks of entertainment

«   56 Long Runs (8 weeks or more)

«   Presenting 10 tours of Mamma Mia! and over seven engagements each of Rent, Chicago, Les Miz, Rain: A Tribune to the Beatles, Stomp

Broadway In Chicago and Porchlight Music Theatre are delighted to announce that the Lortel Award-Winning musical comedy TITANIQUE will play Broadway In Chicago's Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place (175 E. Chestnut St.) for a limited eight-week engagement, March 25 – May 18, 2025. Group tickets for 10 or more are on sale now by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710 or emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. TITANIQUE will be part of the upcoming Broadway In Chicago and Porchlight Music Theatre subscription seasons and is presented by special arrangement with Eva Price. The on sale date for individual tickets, creative team and casting will be announced at a later date.

TITANIQUE, the irresistibly funny and irreverent send-up of the blockbuster film Titanic, driven by the songs of pop icon Céline Dion, is originally produced by Tony Award-winning producer Eva Price (Oklahoma!, &Juliet). "I am thrilled that Broadway In Chicago will be presenting our show in the city that loves to laugh and in collaboration with such an important local Chicago theatre company. Titanique continues to be what audiences need most right now, not only in New York, but across the globe and especially, across this country," said Price

Broadway In Chicago President and CEO Lou Raizin said, "Broadway In Chicago is proud to be sharing its Broadway Playhouse stage with another distinguished local theatre company, Porchlight Music Theatre."

All aboard NYC's must-sea musical comedy! When the music of Céline Dion makes sweet Canadian love with the eleven-time Oscar®-winning blockbuster film Titanic, you get TITANIQUE, off-Broadway's most award-winning splash hit, which turns one of the greatest love stories of all time into a hysterical musical fantasia. Want to find out what really happened to Jack and Rose on that fateful night? Just leave it to Céline Dion to enchant the audience with her totally wild take, recharting the course of Titanic's beloved moments and characters with her iconic song catalog. Sailing on fierce powerhouse voices in show-stopping performances of such hits as "My Heart Will Go On," "All By Myself," and "To Love You More" – backed by the unparalleled energy of a full live band – TITANIQUE is a one-of-a-kind theatrical voyage bursting with nostalgia, heart, and campy chaos.

Co-written by Marla Mindelle, Constantine Rousouli, and Tye Blue, TITANIQUE celebrated its Off-Broadway premiere in June 2022 at Asylum Theater, starring the musical's co-authors Mindelle (Sister Act, Netflix's Special) and Rousouli (Cruel Intentions, Hairspray) as Celine Dion and Jack Dawson. After several sold-out extensions, the musical transferred to the Daryl Roth Theatre on November 20, 2022, and won seven major awards of the 2022-23 theater season, including the Lucille Lortel Award and Off-Broadway Alliance Award for Best New Musical.

TITANIQUE's storied history includes a smash hit live-streamed concert – Titanique: The Maiden Voyage Concert – on the premium streaming service Stellar, on May 2, 2021, which followed sold-out pop-up concert engagements in Los Angeles and New York, earning the show a 2019 BroadwayWorld Cabaret Award. Upon the show's Off-Broadway premiere in 2022, The New York Times praised the musical as, "very funny! This 'Titanique' Musical Finds Its Sea Legs.... Near, far, wherever you are, Celine Dion will be there, in this camp reimagining of the maritime blockbuster that revs up into increasing absurdity." Vulture raved, "Titanique is f*cking great. Swim, Don't Walk, to see this Celine Dion jukebox fantasia!" The New York Post hailed the show as, "Sensational, hilarious and deranged! Titanique is, by a nautical mile, the funniest musical in town!" Upon the show's reopening at the larger Daryl Roth Theatre, People magazine declared, "Just when you think it couldn't get better, Titanique makes you love it more, with a glow-up that makes the show even more impactful and irresistible. Yet, there's still a scrappy, endearing 'let's put on a show' energy to it, that gives the musical its Titanic-sized charm. You're guaranteed to laugh your iceberg off." TITANIQUE won seven major awards of the 2022-23 theater season, including three Lucille Lortel Awards (Outstanding Musical, Outstanding Lead Performer: Marla Mindelle, Outstanding Costume Design: Alejo Vietti), the Off-Broadway Alliance Award for Best New Musical, Las Culturistas' Culture Award for Best Indoor Performance, and two Dorian Awards (Outstanding Off-Broadway Production, Outstanding Off-Broadway Performance: Marla Mindelle). The show earned an additional nine award nominations, including two 2023 Drama League Award nominations (Outstanding Musical, Distinguished Performance: Marla Mindelle), two Outer Critics Circle Award nominations (Book of a Musical, Lead Performer: Marla Mindelle), two Lortel Award nominations (Choreography, Featured Performer: John Riddle), and a Drama Desk Award nomination (Book of a Musical).

TITANIQUE recently announced that the musical will voyage into international waters this fall, with its Australian premiere in September 2024 at The Grand Electric in Sydney. In October, the show will mark its Canadian premiere in Montréal (24 km from Céline Dion's hometown of Charlemagne!) at the Segal Centre for Performing Arts from October 27–November 24, 2024, followed by an engagement at Toronto's CAA Theatre from December 3, 2024–January 12, 2025.  A London production, co-produced by Eva Price and Michael Harrison, is set to follow (further information, including official dates and theater, will be announced at a later date).

For more information about the show, visit www.titaniquemusical.com.     

@titaniquemusical (IG) / @titanique (TW)

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO

Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 24 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country. A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago's Loop including the  Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, James M. Nederlander Theatre, Auditorium Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway  Playhouse at Water Tower Place.

For more information and tickets, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Facebook @BroadwayInChicago ● Instagram @broadwayinchicago ● TikTok @broadwayinchicago ● #broadwayinchicago

ABOUT PORCHLIGHT MUSIC THEATRE

Porchlight Music Theatre, celebrating its 30th season, is the award-winning center for music theatre in Chicago.  Porchlight impacts tens of thousands of lives each season bringing the magic of musicals to its theatre home at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts in the Gold Coast and to neighborhoods across the city as well as its expansive education and community offerings. Porchlight has built a national reputation for boldly reimagining classic musicals, supporting new works and young performers, and showcasing Chicago's most notable music theatre artists, all through the intimate and powerful theatrical lens of the "Chicago Style." Programming, classes and more at PorchlightMusicTheatre.org.

ABOUT EVA PRICE

EVA PRICE (Producer) is an NYCLU/ACLU honoree and a three-time Tony award-winning, and two-time Olivier award-winning producer. Her productions have garnered 6 Olivier Awards, 2 Grammy Awards, 2 Emmy Awards, and 19 Tony Awards. Current: & Juliet (Broadway, 9 Tony nominations); Titanique (Off-Broadway, Lucille Lortel Award, Outstanding Musical) The Hip Hop Nutcracker (Touring Live Show, Disney +). Upcoming: Redwood (Broadway); Take the Lead (Paper Mill Playhouse). Selected credits: Redwood (La Jolla Playhouse), A Transparent Musical (Center Theatre Group); Mindplay (Arena Stage & Geffen Playhouse); Jagged Little Pill (2 Tony Awards); Oklahoma! (2 Tony Awards, 2 Olivier Awards, Best Musical Revival, National Tour, West End); Tina - The Tina Turner Musical; What the Constitution Means to Me; Angels in America (Tony-winning Broadway Revival starring Nathan Lane and Andrew Garfield); Dear Evan Hansen (6 Tony Awards, 3 Olivier Awards); Peter and the Starcatcher (5 Tony Awards) along with several solo shows and critically acclaimed concerts starring The Temptations & The Four Tops; Kathy Griffin; Lewis Black; Colin Quinn; and Hershey Felder.

100 days of summer. The unofficial Chicago holiday season between Memorial Day and Labor Day is a local challenge to get out and experience all the city has to offer from 1:20 games at Wrigley to concerts on Northerly Island, festivals, fairs, and everything in between. I can think of no better way to savor these fleeting days than spending an evening with Savor After Hours.

Savor After Hours is a decadent and artistic showcase of dance pairing beautifully choreographed numbers akin to a delicious glass of wine.Created, written, and directed by Mark Swanhart, Savor After Hours features a cast of exceptionally talented dancers, led by former dancing with the stars dancers, Valentin Chmerkovskiy, his wife, Jenna Johnson-Chmerkovski, and his brother, Maksim Chmerkovski. Artem Chigvintsev, Daniella Karagach, Pasha Pashkov, Allie Meizner, Jack Moore, Jalen Forward, Kayli Johnston, Kenidee Allen and Olivia Cava round out the intimate ensemble dance crew, and invite you to sit and savor the art of dance in the intimate Broadway playhouse. Like a good glass of wine they help you forget about the noise and bustling of Michigan Avenue only steps away.

The show is like a well-choreographed wine tasting, there is something for everyone. Those seeking bold flavors, there are spicy Latin tango sequences filled with passion and romance. For those with a sweet tooth, there are delicate contemporary dances with achingly long lines that pull taut on your heartstrings. From intimate tangos, quick hitting jives, sensual merengues, and cute and playful two steps, your eyes will feast and your blood will be pumping as you move from pairing to pairing, savoring each delectable dance and coupling. With beautifully choreographed routines coupled with exceptional lighting and incredible music, Savor After Hours goes down as smooth as summer wine.

100 days of summer are fast moving, so take a break from the heat to savor this delicetable show. Savor After Hours runs through Aug. 18 at the Broadway Playhouse, 175 E. Chestnut St. Tickets are available at www.broadwayinchicago.com.

First on the stage was Tabla artist Salar Nader, considered Afghanistan’s premier virtuoso on the tabla. His unceasing accompaniment was at times almost subliminal, then bursting out with intentional significance, but ever present, keeping us firmly rooted in Afghani culture … though I hadn’t been aware that in August 2021 the Taliban banned music in Afghanistan. Welcome to the States, Salar!

THE KITE RUNNER is based on the book by Khaled Hosseini, adapted for the stage by Matthew Spangler. Be warned that THE KITE RUNNER is not a light-hearted tale of boys frolicking in fields; many scenes in THE KITE RUNNER will be triggering to many people. These duplicities and complexities are what make THE KITE RUNNER a superb story.

Amir is the protagonist and narrator of the story, splendidly played by Ramzi Khalaf.  Fitting, as Amir’s talent for writing and storytelling is a key factor in his relationship with his father Baba (Haythem Noor), who is bitterly disappointed that his son is not interested in the games of ‘real men’, like soccer.

One game that Amir is enthusiastic about is Kabul’s annual Kite Fighting contest. Kite fighting is a two-man team sport: Amir directs and steers the kite while the glass-edged line is reeled out by kite runner Hassan, ardently played by Shahzeb Zahid Hussain. This relationship between Amir and Hassan is a central and enduring theme throughout THE KITE RUNNER.  

In Kabul kite fighting the kite strings are sharp and the sole objective is to use the tension of your string to cut all your opponent’s kite strings: the game is over when there is but one kite remaining in the sky. The runner’s role is to keep continual fixity on the line: just enough traction to make the string a weapon. There are no other rules … except, of course, that only boys can play.

Salar Nadar in The Kite Runner National Tour 

Amir and Hassan are closer than brothers: born into the same house, they nurse at the same (wetnurse’) breast, they take their first step together, and they speak their first words the same day: Amir’s first word is “Baba”, while Hassan’s is “Amir”. Though they live in the same estate, Amir and Baba sleep in the palatial house, all marble walls and crystal chandeliers, while Hassan and his father Ali (Hassan Nazari-Robati) live in a mud hut against the wall of the compound. The bonds of loyalty, Baba to his servant Ali and Amir to Hassan, are strong despite Baba and Amir being Pashtun, practicing Sunni Islam, while Ali and Hassan are ethnic Hazara and Shi’a Muslims. Throughout the story Amir struggles to navigate his feelings of ethnic superiority over the natural bonds of friendship: ‘But he’s not my friend! I almost blurted. He’s my servant!’ … and ‘Why did I play with Hassan only when no one else was around?’  

The Pashtun’s genetic elitism manifests in their relationships: meek, humble Ali would never dream of sullying his fealty to his lifelong master, any more than Hassan would renege on his allegiance to Amir. Both Pashtun men, however, deceive and betray the Hazara men they love dearly. Prejudice against Hazara is widespread: Hassan is often bullied by Assef (Wiley Naman Strasser) and his brutish cronies; Amir usually defends him… usually.

BTW: Any of this sound familiar? THE KITE RUNNER is totally relevant to 2024.

The production was splendidly directed by Giles Croft, with the able assistance of Cultural Advisor and Dialect Coach Humaira Ghilzai, who has meticulously crafted every detail to accurately reflect the glory of Afghan culture, particularly the Nikah (wedding) ceremony and the sparkling Afghan national dance, attan; I’ll wager Movement Director Kitty Winter had real fun with this!

The production crew was outstanding. The minimalist sets by Barney George were perfect to contain the complexities of the script. I loved how the curtains were triangular, like kites, and how their color changed via Lighting Designer Charles Balfour. The work of Musical Supervisor Jonathan Girling, Sound Designer Drew Baumohl and Projection Designer William Simpson allowed us to differentiate our location as the story moved from Kabul to San Francisco, from the kite-fighting fields to the cramped and sterile offices at Immigration. I need to give a shoutout to Fight Consultant Thomas Schall; he had a lot of work in this production and the fights came off flawlessly.

I always make sure to praise the Stage Manager. I once asked my friend and Thespian oracle, “so what does a Stage Manager do?” to which they replied: “Everything.” So, thanks, Giles T Horne, for doing Everything and doing it Well.

What makes THE KITE RUNNER truly remarkable is its complexity. The characters are multi-dimensional and expertly crafted out. The hostile Russian occupation of Afghanistan leaves deep scars; when the only oncologist Amir can find to care for Baba has Russian parents, Baba refuses, preferring death to fraternization.

The horror, however, was well balanced. Just when I thought I couldn’t take another barbarity, a word or a skillful mannerism would make me chuckle … and thank Whoever for that! cos there’s plenty of barbarity. THE KITE RUNNER is unquestionably a tragedy, but not irretrievable; Hassan’s final message to Amir said: ‘There is a way to be good again.’ *

VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Playing through June 23; two shows on Saturday 6/15 at CIBC Theatre

*BTW, you can get a t-shirt printed with that legend in the lobby

This Pride Month, the electrifying musical "SIX" playing at the James Nederlander Theatre isn’t just a celebration of female empowerment – it's a vibrant anthem for self-expression and defying societal expectations. Forget the dusty history books and the traditional view of Henry VIII's wives as mere pawns. "SIX" explodes onto the stage with a pop-infused rebellion, reclaiming the narrative and reminding us that queens can tell their story in their own way.

"SIX," created by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, reimagines the six wives of Henry VIII as pop divas, each telling her story through a series of show-stopping songs. The musical is a fusion of history, pop culture, high camp, and a feminist reawakening, presented with a diverse and inclusive cast that adds layers of contemporary relevance.

From the moment the lights go down and the opening chords reverberate through the theater, "SIX" grabs the audience’s attention and never lets go. The set, minimalist yet striking, thanks to lighting design by Tim Deiling, serves as a dynamic playground for the queens, with each number featuring dazzling choreography and impressive vocal performances. The cast, a powerhouse ensemble of six immensely talented women, delivers each song with such conviction and charisma that it's impossible not to be swept up in their stories. They are accompanied by The Ladies in Waiting - a four-piece band consisting of Jane Cardona on keyboard, Sterlyn Termine on bass, Rose Laguana on guitars and Kami Lujan on drums

The show kicks off with the exuberant "Ex-Wives," an introduction immediately establishing the premise: the six queens are here to reclaim their narratives, casting off the shadow of Henry VIII to shine in their own right. Each queen’s song is distinct, reflecting her unique personality and circumstances.

Catherine of Aragon’s (Kristina Leopold) "No Way" is an anthem of resilience and defiance, performed with fiery passion that sets the tone for the show’s celebration of female strength. Anne Boleyn’s (Cassie Silva) "Don’t Lose Ur Head" blends humor with tragedy, capturing her youthful rebellion and ultimate downfall. Jane Seymour’s (Kelly Denice Taylor) heart-wrenching ballad, "Heart of Stone," showcases vulnerability and loyalty, providing a poignant contrast to the more upbeat numbers.

“House of Holbein,” set in the portrait studio of Germany's Hans Holbein the Younger, is the most techno-infused song of the evening. From the costumes to the lighting to the song's lyrics ("Try these heels, so high it’s naughty, but we cannot guarantee that you’ll still walk at forty"), the musical number transported me back to the iconic club scene of NYC’s Limelight circa 1989.

Anna of Cleves (Danielle Mendoza) brings the house down with "Get Down," a confident assertion of independence that resonates with themes of self-acceptance and freedom, core values of Pride Month. Katherine Howard’s (Taylor Sage Evans) "All You Wanna Do" is a powerful critique of objectification and a moving testament to her desire for genuine love and respect. Finally, Catherine Parr’s (Adriana Scalice) "I Don’t Need Your Love" is a triumphant declaration of self-worth and autonomy, a fitting culmination that leaves the audience empowered and inspired.

What sets "SIX" apart is not just its infectious music and compelling performances but also its underlying message of reclaiming identity and rewriting history. In the context of Pride Month, this theme takes on added significance. The LGBTQ+ community has long fought to assert their identities, often in the face of marginalization and erasure. "SIX" echoes this struggle, as each queen refuses to be defined by her relationship to Henry VIII, instead asserting her individuality and worth.

The production’s commitment to diversity is also noteworthy. The casting is refreshingly inclusive, reflecting a range of ethnicities and body types, which enhances the show’s relatability and appeal. This inclusiveness extends beyond mere representation; it is woven into the fabric of the performance, celebrating differences and promoting a message of unity and acceptance.

The show’s structure as a pop concert allows for a level of interaction and engagement that traditional musicals might not achieve. The queens frequently break the fourth wall, directly addressing the audience and inviting them into their world. This interactive element creates a sense of community and shared experience, much like the atmosphere of Pride celebrations.

"SIX" is more than a musical; it is a powerful declaration of empowerment and identity. The vibrant celebration of the queens’ stories beautifully aligns with the values of Pride Month, making it an essential production to experience during this time of year. With dynamic performances, infectious energy, and profound messages, "SIX" leaves an indelible mark on its audience, emphasizing the importance of owning our narratives and celebrating our true selves. It's a reminder that finding your voice and claiming your story is the ultimate act of rebellion. "SIX" is a celebration of defying expectations and embracing who you are, unapologetically. So, get ready to "Get Down With Herstory" because this show reminds us that even queens can rock.

When: Through July 14

Where: James Nederlander Theatre 24 W. Randolph Chicago

Running time: 1 hour, 25 minutes

Tickets: $35.50-$95.50 at 800-775-2000

                  www.broadwayinchicago.com