Identity Performing Arts presents their Fall concert with the World Premiere of “Embrace” in Chicago for two performances.

Location:

Visceral Dance Center in the Ann Barzel Theater, 3121 N Rockwell St, Chicago, IL 60618

Tickets @ $30

Book on Eventbrite

When: 

Saturday, November 16th @ 7PM

https://EmbraceNov16Sat.eventbrite.com

Sunday, November 17th @ 7PM

https://EmbraceNov17Sun.eventbrite.com

For more information, call 312.600.3076 or visit

https://www.identityperformingarts.org/

 About the Program:

Embrace unveils memories of a month-long adventure through South America. On this journey, choreographer Ginny Ching-Yin Lo, explored the passion of Tango, the duality of youthful exuberance even in the presence of adversity, reminiscence of her own mother, and empowering voices still to be heard.

Entwined embodies the curiosity and passion of Tango in Buenos Aires, Argentina, inviting us to embrace the beauty of connection. 

River Squalor shifts our focus to the joy of life, as seen through the eyes of local children in Manaus, Brazil, reminding us that happiness is a mindset.  

Amalgam of Emotions offers heartfelt tribute to the celebration of life, showcasing the power of love and remembrance across Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Chicago, honoring our loved ones close or afar. 

Voices empowers us to transcend the barriers of our understanding and misconceptions of others. Being heard allows us to soar beyond mere agreements and foster genuine connections.  Voices is partially supported by the Evanston Arts Council Cultural Fund Grant. 

Press Review:

https://seechicagodance.com/review/lighting-way-identity-performance-arts

About Identity Performing Arts:

Identity is a not-for-profit organization established in 2016 by founder and artistic director, Ginny Ching-Yin Lo, focused on teaching dance to the underserved community and creating independent dance projects. Lo has performed in the U.S., China, France and Germany with her original works. In 2020 fall Identity expanded beyond teaching and transitioned to a full season professional dance troupe. The company's first live concert debuted in fall, 2021 and is one of the resident companies of Visceral Dance Center since 2022. Identity has performed locally in Chicago, Evanston, and internationally in Hanover, Germany. The company presented Enliven & Perpetual in Seattle International Dance Festival this summer along with companies, globally.  Identity hosted its own Elpis Dance Festival 2024; and closed its summer season in Navy Pier’s Wave Wall Moves featured by See Chicago Dance.  This fall, Identity will debut outstanding new dance works, followed by collaborative project with a national company from Seattle next spring and an international engagement next summer. All works created for and performed by Identity dancers express the beauty of our individual identities, interconnected in unity. We invite you as our audience, to witness this intention with every dance work.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater (CST) presents the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC)'s Pericles, direct from a "triumphant" (The Telegraph) run at the company's home in Stratford-upon-Avon, UK. One of the world's preeminent theater companies, the RSC returns to Chicago for the first time in 30 years as part of a new, ongoing partnership with CST.

Tamara Harvey directs this major new production of Shakespeare's moving tale in her and Daniel Evans' first season as the RSC's co‑artistic directors. The Guardian raved about the UK premiere, "Pericles could not have been done better." This exclusive engagement runs October 20–December 7 in the Courtyard Theater, marking CST's 100th international production bringing the world's great artists to Chicago.

When Prince Pericles solves a riddle set by the neighboring King, he knows the answer could get him killed. Fleeing for safety, he finds himself swept away on an epic voyage that will see him battle princes, marry his true love, and become a father. But this is also a journey of storms and shipwrecks, abduction and devastating loss. Adrift in an ocean of grief, will Pericles ever see his family again?

"It is a huge pleasure to be bringing the Royal Shakespeare Company back to Chicago for the first time in 30 years with this most timely and beautiful production of Pericles," said CST's artistic director Edward Hall. "The inaugural production as co‑artistic director from Tamara Harvey is a rare opportunity for audiences to immerse themselves in this thought-provoking and wise story brought to life by an exceptionally talented company. This marks the beginning of a partnership between the RSC and CST in an expression of the shared passion for Shakespeare long held by us, Tamara Harvey, and Daniel Evans."

Harvey shared, "As I stepped with excitement and trepidation into the rehearsal room to create this, my RSC debut, I wouldn't have dared hope that the experience could be so joyful and creatively exhilarating. This company of actors is extraordinary, and we are thrilled to welcome Zach Wyatt as Pericles for the next leg of our journey together, whose professional debut—a very Pericles-like note of connection and reunion—was with Ed Hall when he was artistic director of Hampstead Theatre in London."

She continued, "Sharing this lesser-known Shakespeare with audiences in Stratford‑upon‑Avon has confirmed our belief that Pericles' perennial relevance is compelling, with its examination of leadership, endurance, loss, and hope. We can't wait to share this beautiful play with Chicago Shakespeare Theater's audiences as together we start to write the next chapter in the centuries-old story of collaboration between our two nations."

Zach Wyatt leads the cast of the Chicago engagement in the title role of Prince Pericles. Wyatt has been seen onstage in the West End production of A Little Life, Bartholomew Fair and The Merry Wives of Windsor at The Globe, Wild East at the Young Vic, and I And You at Hampstead Theatre. His television and film credits include The Witcher: Blood Origin, Timestalker, and Blithe Spirit.

The company also includes Miles Barrow (Thaliard/Boult), Philip Bird (Helicanus), Jacqueline Boatswain (Cerimon/Bawd), Rachelle Diedericks (Marina), Chyna‑Rose Frederick (Antiochus' Daughter/Lychorida/Diana), Sasha Ghoshal (Ensemble), Leah Haile (Thaisa), Felix Hayes (Anitochus/Pander), Kel Matsena (Lysimachus), Miriam O'Brien (Ensemble), Emmanuel Olusanya (Ensemble), Chukwuma Omambala (Cleon), Sam Parks (Escanes, Leonine), Christian Patterson (Simonides), and Gabby Wong (Dionyza).

Joining Harvey on the creative team are Jonathan Fensom (Set Designer), Kinnetia Isidore (Costume Designer), Ryan Day (Lighting Designer), Claire van Kampen (Composer),Claire Windsor (Sound Designer), Annie‑Lunnette Deakin-Foster (Movement Director), Charlotte Sutton CDG (Casting Director),Elinor Peregrin (Music Director), Tess Dignan (Voice and Text), Francesca Murray-Fuentes (Associate Director), Zoë Thomas‑Webb (Associate Costume Designer), and Juliano Zaffino (Textual Consultant).

The press opening for Pericles is scheduled for Friday, October 25 at 7:00 p.m. 

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

Pericles

By William Shakespeare
Directed by Tamara Harvey
October 20–December 7, 2024
Courtyard Theater

PERFORMANCE LISTING

• Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. (except November 12 and 19)
• Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. (no matinee on October 23 and no evening on November 27)
• Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. (except November 28)
• Fridays at 7:00 p.m. 
• Saturdays at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
• Sundays at 2:00 p.m. (additional performances at 6:00 p.m. on October 20 and 7:00 p.m. on December 1)

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:

• Audio-described performance with optional touch tour – Sunday, November 17 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.
• Open captioning – Wednesday, November 20 at 1:00 & 7:00 p.m.
  A text display of the words and sounds heard during a play, synced live with the action onstage.
• Projected Spanish translated performance - Thursday, November 21 at 7:00 p.m.
  A text display of the words of the play, translated into Spanish, synced live with the dialogue.
• ASL interpreted performance – Friday, November 22, at 7:00 p.m.
  All dialogue and lyrics are translated into American Sign Language by two certified interpreters

Broadway In Chicago is thrilled to announce the Tony Award®-winning musical, PARADE, will play the CIBC Theatre (18 w. Monroe St.) for a limited two-week engagement, August 5 -17, 2025.

The producers of the acclaimed Broadway revival of PARADE, winner of the 2023 Tony Award® for Best Revival of a Musical, are proud to announce that Max Chernin and Talia Suskauer will play Leo Frank and Lucille Frank on the National Tour.

PARADE's Tony Award®-winning director Michael Arden said, "Max and Talia are extraordinary artists who bring an incredible sense of identity and empathy to their work, rooted in their Jewish heritage. I can't wait for audiences across the country to witness the remarkable depth, passion, and grace they will bring to their portrayals of Leo and Lucille Frank."

Max Chernin is thrilled to reunite with his PARADE family after being a part of the show's award-winning runs on Broadway and at New York City Center. Hailing from Shaker Heights, Ohio, Max is recognized for playing "Samuel Strong" on Seasons 2 and 3 of the Apple TV+ comedy "Dickinson," and co-starred opposite Adam Sandler and Chris Rock in the Netflix/Happy Madison comedy feature film The Week Of, directed by Robert Smigel. On Broadway, he created the role of "Max" in Steve Martin & Edie Brickell's Bright Star, and starred alongside Jake Gyllenhaal and Annaleigh Ashford in the 2017 revival of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine's Sunday in the Park with George. Max has appeared on New York stages in Brooklynite at Vineyard Theatre, Bernstein's Mass at Lincoln Center, and The Golden Apple at New York City Center. Recent stage credits include the lead role of "Andrew" in the world premiere of Passing Through at Goodspeed Opera House, Motel in Fiddler on the Roof at The Muny, Buddy in Elf at PTC and NCT), and Jervis in Daddy Long Legs at Theatre Raleigh. On television, Max has guest starred on "The Blacklist," "The Family," and "Mozart in the Jungle." He holds a BFA from Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music (CCM) and won the American Traditions Competition's Silver Medal and the Lotte Lenya Foundation's Carolyn Weber Award.

Talia Suskauer has played Elphaba in both the Broadway and the National Tour productions of Wicked. Her other New York credits include Be More Chill, both on Broadway and at Signature Theater. Regionally, Talia has starred as Dot in Sunday in the Park with George at Axelrod Arts Performing Arts Center, Louise in Gypsy at Goodspeed Opera House, Jo in Little Women, and Lily in The Secret Garden. Her film and television credits include "FBI: Most Wanted" and 31 Candles to be released next year. Most recently, she is currently playing Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors at Ogunquit Playhouse. Talia has performed at Carnegie Hall and performs solo shows around the country. She holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Penn State University.

As previously announced, the production will run technical rehearsals and have its first public performances at Proctors Theatre in Schenectady from January 11-17, 2025, followed by its official tour premiere at Hennepin Art's historic Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis from January 21-26, 2025.

The 32-week National Tour of PARADE will then play Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in Kansas City (January 21 – February 2, 2025), Playhouse Square in Cleveland (February 4-23, 2025), Fisher Theatre in Detroit (February 25 – March 9, 2025), the Emerson Colonial Theatre in Boston (March 11-23, 2025), the Belk Theater in Charlotte (March 25-30, 2025), the Fox Theatre in Atlanta (April 1-6, 2025), The 5th Avenue Theatre in Seattle (April 16 – May 4, 2025), Safe Credit Union Performing Arts Center in Sacramento (May 6-11, 2025), the Curran Theatre in San Francisco (May 13 – June 8, 2025), The Smith Center in Las Vegas (June 10-15), the Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles (June 17 – July 12, 2025), The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts in Houston (July 15-20, 2025), Des Moines Civic Center in Des Moines (July 29 – August 3, 2025), CIBC Theatre in Chicago (August 5 – 17, 2025) and The Kennedy Center in Washington, DC (August 19 – September 7, 2025).

Additional casting will be announced in the coming weeks.

PARADE is directed by Tony Award® winner Michael Arden, with book by two-time Tony Award® winner, Pulitzer Prize winner, and Academy Award® winner Alfred Uhry, music and lyrics by three-time Tony Award® winner Jason Robert Brown, and co-conceived by 21-time Tony Award®-winning legend Harold Prince.

The production has received overwhelming acclaim since its debut. The New York Times said, "this revival, filled with deft flourishes by director Michael Arden, recalls an era of big casts, big stories, and big talent – a time when musicals actually felt like events." Entertainment Weekly called Parade "the most gorgeous production on Broadway."  Deadline proclaimed that Parade is "a work of art! As commanding as any musical revival to hit Broadway in years." Time Out New York stated that "Parade will echo for a long time to come. See it before the parade passes by."

Leo and Lucille Frank are a newlywed Jewish couple struggling to make a life in the old red hills of Georgia. When Leo is accused of an unspeakable crime, it propels them into an unimaginable test of faith, humanity, justice, and devotion. Riveting and gloriously hopeful, PARADE reminds us that to love, we must truly see one another.

PARADE played its final performance of its strictly limited Broadway engagement on Sunday, August 6, 2023. This production first premiered at New York City Center where it was instantly sold out, playing November 1-6, 2022.

The Parade (2023 Broadway Cast Recording), which was nominated for a 2023 Grammy Award® for Best Musical Theater Album, is available on all digital platforms.

The creative team for PARADE includes Lauren Yalango-Grant & Christopher Cree Grant (choreography), Tony Award® nominee Dane Laffrey (scenic design), Tony Award® winner Susan Hilferty (costume design), Tony Award® nominee Heather Gilbert (lighting design), Drama Desk Award nominee Jon Weston (sound design), Tony Award® nominee Sven Ortel (projection design) and Tom Watson (hair and wig design). Justin Scribner is the Production Supervisor, Veronica Aglow is the Production Stage Manager, Tom Murray is the Music Supervisor, Charlie Alterman is the Music Director, Kimberlee Wertz is the Music Coordinator, Telsey + Co/Craig Burns, CSA is the Casting Director and Samuel Dallas/ShowTown Theatricals is the General Manager. PARADE was originally directed on Broadway by Harold Prince.

The National Tour of PARADE is produced by Seaview, Ambassador Theatre Group Productions, New York City Center, Erica Lynn Schwartz, Pencil Factory Productions, Eric & Marsi Gardiner, Chutzpah Productions, Robin Merrie, Cynthia Stroum, Julie Cohen, Marcia Goldberg, John Gore Organization, Ruth & Stephen Hendel, Roth-Manella Productions, Runyonland Sussman, ShowTown Productions, Rachel Styne, Tom Tuft, Benjamin Simpson, Nathan Vernon, Kristin Caskey, Mike Isaacson and Bee Carrozzini.

www.paradebroadway.com

www.facebook.com/paradebway

www.instagram.com/paradebway

www.twitter.com/paradebway

www.tiktok.com/@paradebway>

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, 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

Individual tickets for Cameron Mackintosh's acclaimed production of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg's Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon, LES MISÉRABLES, will go on sale on Friday, September 20. LES MISÉRABLES will play Broadway In Chicago's Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W. Randolph St.) for a limited three-week engagement, December 17 – January 5.

More information can be found at LesMis.com, the official global website for LES MISÉRABLES.

Cameron Mackintosh said, "The phenomenon of Les Misérables never fails to astound me.  No show in history has been able to continually reinvent itself and remain a contemporary musical attracting new generations of brilliant new talent, many of whom go on to international stardom. No show in the world has ever demonstrated the survival of the human spirit better than Les Miz, and it's time to let the people sing again. We are all thrilled to be Bringing Her Home to you."

★★★★★ "This reborn dream of a production looks and sounds fresher than ever. Sends shivers of excitement racing down the spine - You emerge feeling stirred and exhilarated." - Daily Telegraph

"One of the greatest musicals ever created." –  Chicago Tribune

"The defining musical of the last 50 years." – BroadwayWorld

★★★★★ "The mighty Les Mis is still revolutionary." –  Daily Mail

"Les Mis for the 21st Century." – The Huffington Post

Set against the backdrop of 19th century France, LES MISÉRABLES tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption – a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. This epic and uplifting story has become one of the most celebrated musicals in theatrical history. 

Boublil & Schönberg's magnificent score of LES MISÉRABLES includes the classic songs "I Dreamed a Dream," "On My Own," "Bring Him Home," "Do You Hear The People Sing?," "One Day More," "Master of the House" and many more.  Seen by over 130 million people worldwide in 53 countries, 438 cities and 22 languages, LES MISÉRABLES is undisputedly still one of the world's most popular musicals.

To date, LES MISÉRABLES remains the 6th longest-running Broadway production of all time.

Since Cameron Mackintosh first conceived this acclaimed new production of LES MISÉRABLES in 2009 to celebrate the show's 25th anniversary, it has taken the world by storm continuing to enjoy record-breaking runs in countries including North America, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Netherlands, Belgium, and Spain. LES MISÉRABLES will enter its 40th record-breaking year in London's West End this October and to celebrate the milestone the show launches its first World Tour with the highly anticipated LES MISÉRABLES THE ARENA SPECTACULAR, playing dates throughout Europe, Australia, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, and more destinations to be announced.  Simultaneously, and for the first time ever, 11 leading amateur companies in the UK will present their own staging of the full show across the country in 2025. Earlier this year, the remastered and remixed Oscar-winning movie was also released again in several countries around the world.

Cameron Mackintosh's production of LES MISÉRABLES is written by Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg and is based on the novel by Victor Hugo. It has music by Claude-Michel Schönberg, lyrics by Herbert Kretzmer and original French text by Alain Boublil and Jean-Marc Natel, additional material by James Fenton and adaptation by Trevor Nunn and John Caird. Orchestrations are by Stephen Metcalfe, Christopher Jahnke and Stephen Brooker with original orchestrations by John Cameron. The production is directed by James Powell and Laurence Connor, designed by Matt Kinley inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo, with costumes by Andreane Neofitou, additional costume designs by Christine Rowland and Paul Wills, lighting by Paule Constable, sound by Mick Potter, projections realized by Finn Ross, Jonathon Lyle and Fifty Nine Productions, musical staging by Geoffrey Garratt, music supervision by Stephen Brooker and James Moore, and casting by Tara Rubin Casting.

The LES MISÉRABLES associate director is Corey Agnew, musical staging associate is Jesse Robb, resident director is Brendan Stackhouse and music direction is by Will Curry. The LES MISÉRABLES tour stage management team is led by Ryan W. Gardner with Claire Farrokh and Hollis Duggans-Queenss.  The company management team is Chris Danner and Elle Aghabala.

Connect with LES MISÉRABLES online at: 

www.LesMis.com

Facebook: LesMizUS

Instagram: @LesMizUS

X: LesMizUS

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

Tuesday, December 17 at 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, December 18 at 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, December 19 at 7:00 p.m.

Friday, December 20 at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, December 21 at 2:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, December 22 at 1:00 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.

Monday, December 23 at 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, December 24 at 1:00 p.m.

Wednesday, December 25 NO SHOW

Thursday, December 26 at 7:00 p.m.

Friday, December 27 at 1:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, December 28 at 2:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, December 29 at 1:00 p.m.

Monday, December 30 at 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, December 31 at 1:00 p.m.

Wednesday, January 1 NO SHOW

Thursday, January 2 at 7:00 p.m.

Friday, January 3 at 1:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, January 4 at 2:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, January 5 at 1:00 p.m.

TICKET INFORMATION

Individual tickets for LES MISÉRABLES will go on sale to the public on Friday, September 20 and range from $40.00 - $160.00 with a select number of premium tickets available. Tickets are available now for groups of 10 or more 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.. For more  information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

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, 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

Kokandy Productions is pleased to conclude its 2024 season with an immersive production of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine's classic Into The Woods, the first Chicago storefront production of the beloved musical in over a decade. Directed and choreographed by Producing Artistic Director Derek Van Barham with music direction by Nick Sula, Into The Woods will play October 10 – December 22, 2024 at The Chopin Studio Theatre, 1543 W. Division St. in Chicago. Tickets are now on sale at kokandyproductions.com. 

Journeying Into The Woods are Kevin Webb and Sonia Goldberg as The Baker and The Baker's Wife, Stephanie Stockstill as The Witch, Madison Kauffman as Cinderella, Kevin Parra as Jack and Anna Seibert as Little Red. Pulling double (or more) duty are August Forman as Narrator/Mysterious Man, Shea Hopkins as Cinderella's Prince/Wolf, Makenzy Jenkins as Rapunzel's Prince/Steward, Ismael Garcia as Rapunzel/Florinda, Britain Gebhardt as Jack's Mother/Lucinda and Emily Goldberg as Cinderella's Stepmother/Mother. The company of players is completed by swings Gabby Koziol, Jackson Mikkelsen, Halli Morgan, Michael Penick, Julie Peterson, Elizabeth Rentfro and Evan B Smith.

Escape into a fantastical fairytale adventure where wishes come true, but not always for free. A trove of storybook characters' paths intertwine as they chase their deepest desires through an enchanted forest. However, once they receive their happily ever after, the unintended consequences of granted wishes unravel their worlds.

Weaving a euphoric score including the songs "Giants in the Sky," "On the Steps of the Palace," "No One Is Alone" and "Children Will Listen" with a darkly humorous book, Into the Woods is a sophisticated musical twist on beloved childhood fables.

"What will we find when we wander into these woods?" asks director and choreographer Derek Van Barham. "A company of players, a beloved musical and a little magic. Our hope is that by re-orchestrating for 2 pianos and a cast of 12 (half of them doubling) we can focus on the intimate and immersive nature of the show, capturing the desperate need to be seen, to be remembered and to gather together to share (and receive) a good story."

Music Director Nick Sula adds, "Many of the characters in this musical are introduced in pairs - The Baker and The Baker's Wife, Jack and Little Red, the two Stepsisters, the two Princes - so it felt natural to include the music, the musicians and the instruments themselves as a mirror of that. Our team of three pianist/orchestrators collaborated to create a unique sound with a two-piano, four-(or more!)-hand approach that features a duo of acoustic grand pianos. We are delighted to share the full depth and breadth of Stephen Sondheim's music with our audiences in this hauntingly majestic and intimate re-imagination." 

The production team includes G "Max" Maxin IV, (Scenic Design and Lighting Design), Rachel Sypniewski (Costume Design), Matt Reich (Sound Design), Mike Patrick (Sound Consultant), Jakob Abderhalden (Properties Design), Chels Morgan (Intimacy Choreographer), Syd Genco (Makeup Design), Keith Ryan (Wig Design), Ariana Miles and Evelyn Ryan (Orchestrators), Nicholas Reinhart (Production Manager), Shane Roberie (Casting Associate), Lynsy Folckomer (Sound Engineer), Ryan Stajmiger (Assistant Director), Kendyl Meyer (Stage Manager), Ethan Colish (Assistant Stage Manager).

PRODUCTION DETAILS:

Title: Into The Woods

Book by James Lapine

Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim

Directed and Choreographed by Producing Artistic Director Derek Van Barham

Music Direction by Nick Sula

Cast (in alphabetical order): August Forman (Narrator/Mysterious Man), Ismael Garcia (Rapunzel/Florinda), Britain Gebhardt (Jack's Mother/Lucinda), Emily Goldberg (Cinderella's Stepmother/Mother), Sonia Goldberg (The Baker's Wife), Shea Hopkins (Cinderella's Prince/Wolf), Makenzy Jenkins (Rapunzel's Prince/Steward), Madison Kauffman (Cinderella), Kevin Parra (Jack), Anna Seibert (Little Red), Stephanie Stockstill (The Witch) and Kevin Webb (The Baker).

Swings: Gabby Koziol, Jackson Mikkelsen, Halli Morgan, Michael Penick, Julie Peterson, Elizabeth Rentfro and Evan B Smith. 

Musicians: Ariana Miles (piano) and Evelyn Ryan (piano).

Location: The Chopin Studio Theatre, 1543 W. Division St., Chicago

Dates: Previews: Thursday, October 10 at 7 pm, Friday, October 11 at 7 pm, Saturday, October 12 at 7 pm, Sunday, October 13 at 5 pm, Monday, October 14 at 7 pm, Sunday, October 20 at 5 pm, Monday, October 21 at 7 pm, Thursday, October 24 at 7 pm and Friday, October 25 at 7 pm

Press performance: Saturday, October 26 at 7 pm

Regular run: Sunday, October 27 – Sunday, December 22, 2024

Curtain Times: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7 pm; Sundays at 5 pm. Please note: there will be added performances on Wednesday, November 27 at 7 pm and Monday, December 9 at 7 pm; there will not be a performance on Thursday, November 28 (Thanksgiving).

Tickets: Previews $25 (with code PREVIEW). Regular run $45 general admission, $55 reserved seating. Students/Seniors $35. There will be a limited number of $15 tickets (with code ARTIST) available to artists for each performance. Tickets are on sale now at kokandyproductions.com.

About the Artists

Derek Van Barham (Director/Choreographer, he/him) is the Producing Artistic Director of Kokandy Productions. Directing credits include Children of Eden in Concert (Broadway In Chicago), Spring Awakening (Flint Rep); Sweeney Todd, American Psycho and Head Over Heels (Jeff Awards and Jeff nomination, Kokandy); The View Upstairs (Circle Theatre); Miracle by Dan Savage, Poseidon (Hell in a Handbag). Choreography credits include Evil Dead (Jeff nomination), Coraline the Musical, Ghost Quartet, Shockheaded Peter and Coraline the Musical (Black Button Eyes). He was previously named one of Windy City Times' 30 Under 30, and one of Newcity Magazine's 50 Players 2024. MFA: CCPA/Roosevelt University. derekvanbarham.com | IG @dvbarham

Nick Sula (Music Director and Orchestrations, he/him) is an award-winning pianist, arranger and music director. Music Direction credits include the Jeff Award-winning production of Sweeney Todd with Kokandy Productions, for which he earned the Jeff Award for Outstanding Music Direction; Anything Goes with Porchlight Music Theatre [Jeff nomination]; Ghost Quartet [Jeff nomination], Nevermore, Amour, Coraline (Black Button Eyes Productions); Myths & Hymns, The Glorious Ones [Jeff nomination], Pippin (BoHo Theatre); His & His, Boys in Briefs, Broadway at the Broadway (Pride Films and Plays); Merrily We Roll Along, Head Over Heels, The Pajama Game, The Pirates of Penzance (CCPA). Nick can be heard performing with vocalists at theaters and cabaret venues around Chicagoland such as Davenport's Piano Bar and Skokie Theater. As a professor of musical theatre he serves as a music director, instructor and vocal coach at the Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University.

About Kokandy Productions

Founded in 2010, Kokandy Productions seeks to leverage the heightened reality of musical theatre to tell complex and challenging stories, with a focus on contributing to the development of Chicago-based musical theatre artists, and raising the profile of Chicago's non-Equity musical theatre community.

The company's artistic staff is comprised of Derek Van Barham (Producing Artistic Director), Scot T. Kokandy (Executive Producer) and Adrian Abel Azevedo & Leda Hoffman (Artistic Associates). The Board of Directors includes Preston Cropp, Scot T. Kokandy, Danielle Sparklin and Katie Svaicer. 

For additional information, visit www.kokandyproductions.com. 

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

Chicago Opera Theater (COT), Chicago’s foremost producer of new and rarely produced operas, begins its 2024/25 Season, with an exciting and aptly timed production of the North American premiere of Leonora. A classical Italian opera composed by Ferdinando Paër to a libretto by Giuseppe Maria Foppa and Giacomo Cinti, the plot to Leonora is based on the same story as Beethoven’s later opera Fidelio. In fact, it has been convincingly argued by musicologists that Beethoven, who was known to have owned a score to Leonora, was influenced by the Paër while composing his only opera. Conducted by Chicago favorite and master interpreter of classical repertoire Dame Jane Glover and staring internationally renowned tenor Edgardo Rocha in his Chicago debut, the production will feature stage direction by Chicago Opera Theater’s own Edlis Neeson General Director Lawrence Edelson making his Chicago directorial debut. The run of Leonora has been scheduled to complement Lyric Opera Chicago’s production of Fidelio, giving audiences a rare opportunity to hear two works based on the same libretto side-by-side. The two companies will present a panel discussing the connection between the two works before the productions begin. COT’s production of Leonora will take place Tuesday, October 1 at 7:30 PM, Friday, October 4 at 7:30 PM and Sunday, October 6 at 3:00 PM at the Studebaker Theater in the Fine Arts Building (410 S Michigan Ave.). Tickets start at $50 with discounts available for subscribers, groups, and students and can be purchased at chicagooperatheater.org.

"When I joined COT, Paër's Leonora was one of the first operas I considered producing. 2020 was the 250th Anniversary of Beethoven's birth, and as part of the worldwide celebrations, there was renewed interest in Paër's opera,” said Edelson, “Leonora premiered in 1804, and was frequently performed across Europe in the early 19th century. In the 1820s, Fidelio began being produced more frequently, and Paër’s opera was neglected for well over a century, with only sporadic performances of heavily cut versions of the score taking place. The first critical edition of Leonora was prepared for performances in Austria in 2020, and a recording of those concert performances was issued shortly thereafter. When I heard this new recording, I was blown away. The musical invention - both orchestrally and vocally - is remarkable, and the relationship between Paër's realization of the story to Beethoven's is fascinating. Knowing that Lyric Opera was planning on bringing Fidelio back to the stage this fall, it was clear to me that we had to produce Leonora. I am thrilled to be collaborating with Dame Jane Glover and a truly remarkable cast to bring Leonora to life. Audiences are in for a night of sensational, virtuoso singing and a new perspective on a timeless story that is as relevant today as it was when it first premiered."

Leonora is based on a deeply moving, true story that took place in France in the 18th century that revolves around a young woman who disguises herself as a man and under the name of Fidelio to rescue her wrongfully imprisoned husband. One of four operas inspired by the 1798 libretto Léonore by Jean Nicolas Bouilly, which was originally set to music by Pierre Gaveaux, the politically infused plot subsequently inspired not only Paër, but also composers Simon Mayr and, of course, Ludwig van Beethoven. While works by composer Ferdinando Paër (1771-1839) are not frequently performed today, the Italian composer wrote at least 55 operas. A leading figure in the musical life of Paris, Paër gave voice lessons to soprano Giuditta Pasta, composition lessons to the young Franz Liszt, and he was responsible for introducing Chopin and Bellini in the most important salons of the French capital. Beethoven had a high opinion of Paër, once jesting that the funeral march in Achille was so fine he "would have to compose it.” COT and Lyric Opera will jointly present an evening with the artistic teams of both productions to explore the relationship between the two operas on September 21 at the Chicago Temple. COT will also hold a Close-Up event giving audiences a preview of Lenora with a deep dive into the robust oeuvre of composer Ferdinando Paër on September 12 at the Harold Washington Library.

Chicago Opera Theater’s production of Leonora will be the first fully staged production in the world to use the new critical edition of the score recently prepared by Bärenreiter.  Chicago-based soprano Vanessa Becerra makes her COT debut in the title role of Leonora opposite Uruguayan tenor Edgardo Rocha who plays Florestano. Rounding out the cast is a mix of local, national, and international talent all making their COT debuts; soprano Keely Futterer as Marcellina, baritone Joo Won Kang as Rocco, tenor Matthew Pearce as Don Pizzarro, and tenor Kameron Alston as Don Fernando. Bass baritone Alex Soare returns to the COT stage as Giachino. The design team includes scenic designer Cameron Anderson, costume designer Brenda Winstead, and lighting designer Josh Epstein.

Chicago Opera Theater and Lyric Opera Chicago Joint Panel

Chicago Opera Theater and Lyric Opera Chicago will present Revolution, Love, Freedom: Exploring the sacrifice of love and defiance of tyranny in Bethoveen's Fidelio and Paër's Leonora, an enlightening discussion that delves into the contrasting interpretations of the story of Leonore by two remarkable composers: Ludwig van Beethoven and Ferdinando Paër. This talk, moderated by WFMT’s LaRob K. Rafael, will explore the origins of the source material that inspired both operas and examine how each composer-librettist team uniquely addresses the themes of liberty, revolution, self-sacrifice, love and justice. The discussion also provides the opportunity to bring together the artistic teams behind Lyric Opera of Chicago’s upcoming production of Beethoven’s Fidelio (conductor Enrique Mazzola and director Matthew Ozawa), and Chicago Opera Theater’s upcoming production of Paër’s Leonora (conductor Dame Jane Glover and director Lawrence Edelson). This free event is Saturday, September 21 from 1:00-2:30 PM at First United Methodist Church at the Chicago Temple - Sanctuary (77 W Washington Ave.). Advanced registration is recommended for this free event. For more information and to register visit chicagooperatheater.org/freedom.

Close-Up with Leonora

Ferdinando Paër wrote over fifty operas and was influential in the Parisian music scene in his day. Despite his fame in his lifetime, his music is rarely performed in North America today. COT General Director and Leonora stage director Lawrence Edelson will moderate an event with guest musicologist Jesse Rosenberg to introduce audiences to both the opera Leonora and Paër’s important role in music history. Rosenberg is musicologist at Northwestern University specializing in 19^th century Italian opera. The pair will be joined by members of the cast of COT’s production who will both sing excerpts from the work and discuss the opera from a singer’s perspective. Close-Up with Leonora is September 12 from 6:30-7:40 PM at the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium at Harold Washington Library, (400 S State St.). The event is free, registration is encouraged. For more information and to register visit chicagooperatheater.org/closeupleonora.

About Chicago Opera Theater

Chicago Opera Theater is a company laser-focused on living its values of expanding the tradition of opera as a living art form and supporting artists who are defining the future of opera; deepening appreciation for the breadth and depth of operatic storytelling by producing important works from throughout history that are new to Chicago audiences; increasing access to opera for audiences of all ages; and following through on commitments to equity and access – behind the scenes, on the stage, and in the audience.  Since its founding in 1973, COT has grown from a grassroots community-based company to a national leader in an increasingly vibrant, diverse, and forward-looking art form. COT has staged over 160 operas, including over 90 Chicago premieres and 50 operas by American composers. COT is led by Edlis Neeson General Director Lawrence Edelson who was appointed in 2023.

The Vanguard Initiative, founded in 2018, is COT's fully comprehensive program for composers ready to delve into the world of opera. This immersive two-year residency includes participation in all COT productions, sessions with top industry leaders, extensive study of repertoire and vocal writing, and direct insight into administrative and other behind-the-scenes processes, culminating with the development of a full-length opera commissioned by the company. The program is guided and overseen by former COT Music Director Lidiya Yankovskaya, with advisors Missy Mazzoli, Kamala Sankaram, and Gene Scheer. The program is made possible with leadership support from the Mellon Foundation. The 2024/25 Vanguard Composers are Carlos R. Carrillo (second year) and Aaron Israel Levin (first year).

For more information on Chicago Opera Theater productions, visit chicagooperatheater.org/

TheaterWorksUSA (Barbara Pasternack, Artistic Director; Michael Harrington, Executive Director) is thrilled to announce that after a successful run in the spring of 2024, DOG MAN: THE MUSICAL will return to Chicago's Studebaker Theater for a limited fall engagement. This hilarious, heartfelt family adventure based on the worldwide bestselling series from Dav Pilkey, the creator of Captain Underpants and Cat Kid Comic Club, will run November 8 – December 1, 2024 at the newly renovated Studebaker Theater in the historic Fine Arts building, located at 410 S. Michigan Ave. The press opening is November 14, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. For tickets and information, visit www.DogManTheMusical.com.

Best buds George and Harold have been creating comics for years, but now that they're in 5th grade, they figure it's time to level up and write a musical based on their favorite character, Dog Man, the crime-biting sensation who is part dog, part man, and ALL HERO!! How hard could it be? With the head of a dog and the body of a policeman, Dog Man loves to fight crime and chew on the furniture. But while trying his best to be a good boy, can he save the city from Flippy the cyborg fish and his army of Beasty Buildings? Can he catch Petey, the world's most evil cat, who has cloned himself to exact revenge on the doggy do-gooder? And will George and Harold finish their show before lunchtime?? Find out in this epic musical adventure featuring the hilarity and heart of Dav Pilkey's beloved characters. Recommended for ages 5+.

The New York Times says, "Dog Man: The Musical keeps young audiences giggling for nearly 90 minutes. You have to love a family show that makes adults laugh, too." The Chicago Tribune praises "Dog Man: The Musical celebrates the creativity of kids." Newsday wrote, "A howling good time. This show is perfect for everyone." "Epic musical adventure featuring hilarity and heart," said New York Family.          

TheaterWorksUSA's Artistic Director Barbara Pasternack said, "It's gratifying to watch young people and families respond to these two clever, funny musicals the way they respond to Dav Pilkey's remarkable books which celebrate kindness, individuality and fearless creativity."

Dog Man creator Dav Pilkey adds, "Dog Man: The Musical surpasses my highest expectations. It is the 'Perfect Mash-up' of memorable music, humor, and love."

Based on the bestselling Dog Man book series by Dav Pilkey, Dog Man: The Musical has a book and lyrics by Kevin Del Aguila (two-time Emmy Award-winning writer of the PBS show Peg + Cat), and music by Brad Alexander (Drama Desk nominated See Rock City & Other Destinations), with original direction and choreography by Jen Wineman (NY: Less Than 50%),scenic design by Timothy R. Mackabee (Broadway's The Elephant Man; Guards at the Taj, Lucille Lortel Award), costume design by Heidi Leigh Hanson (Regional: The Addams Family Musical, How I Learned to Drive), lighting design by David Lander (Broadway's The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical; Benghal Tiger at the Bagdad Zoo, Drama Desk Award) and sound design by Emma Wilk (NY: The Waiting Game, Regional: The Heiress). Tour direction and choreography is by Candi Boyd, and tour music direction is by Miriam Daly.

Following successful multi-week engagements in NYC off-Broadway at New World Stages, the Kirk Douglas Theatre in Los Angeles, and the CAA Theatre in Toronto, the upcoming 2024-25 tour stops include the 2024 Regional Tony Award recipient Wilma Theater in Philadelphia PA, returns to the Studebaker Theatre in Chicago, the Curran in San Francisco, and the Paramount Theatre in Austin, and debut appearances in New Orleans, San Antonio, Detroit, Nashville, among many others.

Dog Man: The Scarlet Shedder, the latest book in the global publishing phenomenon published this past May, was the #1 bestselling book overall (children's and adult books combined) in the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and was the #1 bestselling children's book in the U.K. Later this year, Scholastic will publish Dog Man: Big Jim Begins on December 3rd, followed by the highly anticipated Dog Man movie from DreamWorks Animation and Universal Pictures coming to theaters worldwide in January 2025.

About TheaterWorksUSA

TheaterWorksUSA has led the Theater for Young and Family Audiences movement in New York City and across North America for over half a century. At TWUSA, we believe that access to art—and theater, in particular—is vital for our youth. Since 1967, the 501(c)3 not-for-profit has captured the imaginations of 100 million new and veteran theatergoers with an award-winning repertoire of over 140 original plays and musicals. Acclaimed alumni include Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez (Disney's Frozen), Daphne Rubin-Vega (Rent), Jerry Zaks (The Music Man), Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (Dear Evan Hansen), Miguel Cervantes (Hamilton), Kathleen Chalfant (Angels in America), and Chuck Cooper (Tony award-winning actor, The Life). WWW.TWUSA.ORG

The Studebaker Theater, located in the heart of Chicago, is a historic landmark renowned for its elegant architecture and rich cultural heritage. Located within the Fine Arts Building and originally built in 1898 by the renowned architectural firm Adler & Sullivan, the theater has served as a premier destination for entertainment and the performing arts for over a century. With the recent renovation completed in 2022, the ornate interior, state-of-the-art facilities, and intimate seating arrangement provide an unparalleled setting for a wide range of events, including theater, concerts, dance, and more. It is home to NPR's "Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!", and has featured performances from the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival, the Chicago Opera Theater, the Chicago Academy for the Arts, the Chicago Jazz Orchestra, as well as new musicals and more.

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