ENSEMBLE THEATER IN HONOR OF HELEN ZELL AT STEPPENWOLF

by Zac Thriffiley - March 27, 2025

IT’S BEEN TEN YEARS SINCE EVERYBODY DIED misses the mark on both scares and astute social commentary, but through no fault of its talented and refreshingly diverse cast....

by Tina St. Angelo Wetzel - March 20, 2025

The newest production at the Copley Theatre in Aurora is The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. It’s the story of “12” year olds competing in a spelling bee. Under the direction of Jeff Award-winning Stephen Schellhardt and a set designed by Lauren M. Nichols showcasing a gymnasium, this group ...

by Tina St. Angelo Wetzel - March 16, 2025

What did our critic think of LA BOHEME at Lyric Opera Of Chicago? Giacomo Puccini’s heartbreaking La Boheme is playing for 10 performances at the Lyric. Bring a handkerchief. Director Melanie Bacaling, in her Lyric directorial debut, has given this production an emotional feel which is the heart of ...

by Tina St. Angelo Wetzel - March 09, 2025

Guys and Dolls is a show to be seen and enjoyed. Vibrant, energetic and just fun. Sometimes an old fashioned Broadway show is needed. Guys and Dolls is that show....

by Zac Thriffiley - February 24, 2025

While the play may be meager fare compared to other recent professional offerings, CLUE is undeniably a well-polished evening of hijinks and hilarity—if audiences know what they’re getting themselves into....

by Tina St. Angelo Wetzel - February 23, 2025

The current production at the Paramount Theatre is the musical Waitress based upon the motion picture. When it opened, it was the first all-female production team on Broadway. Director and choreographer Katie Spelman gives the audience an evening of laughter, some tears and love. Sarah Bareilles’ mu...

by Zac Thriffiley - February 19, 2025

Under the direction of artistic director Susan V. Booth and bolstered by actors at the heights of their craft, the Goodman’s BETRAYAL provides audiences with a sincere and sympathetic take on a modern classic....

by Kathleen Anwar - February 15, 2025

Cirque du Soleil has long been known for its awe-inspiring performances, blending daring stunts, stunning visuals, and a sense of wonder. OVO continues this proud tradition, offering a show that is both visually spectacular and athletically extraordinary. What did our critic think of OVO CIRQUE DU S...

by Tina St. Angelo Wetzel - February 14, 2025

Director Jane Lanier (A Chorus Line) and this talented ensemble seamlessly tell Carole’s story to the fullest extent. The orchestra, under the direction of Chris Sargent, is the backbone to this music....

by Rachel Weinberg - February 12, 2025

FOOL FOR LOVE has peak Steppenwolf energy. I’ve long associated Steppenwolf Theatre Company with gritty, messy, feral family and relationship dramas — Sam Shepard’s one-act fits the bill. It’s also only 65 minutes — that run-time is short, but it’s a logical choice in the TikTok era when attention s...