From Kevin Spacey to Denzel Washington, Chicago’s stages have been the temporary home of some of the world’s biggest stars. And while you can sample Chicago’s favorite snack when you buy popcorn online from our website, this slice of Chicago society needs to be experienced first-hand.
CThere are more than 200 theater companies and playhouses currently operating in the Chicago, and the sheer volume of Windy City performing art can feel a little intimating–especially if you’re new to the Windy City. Hopefully, this short list of some of our favorite theaters (both big and small) will help you next time you come in town for a visit.
Second City
This group has been a Chicago improve mainstay for decades. Founded in 1959, Second City has produced some of Saturday Night Live’s most famous cast members like Bill Murray, Tina Fey, and Dan Akroyd. The comedy troupe is also responsible for cultivating talents like The Office’s Steve Carell and Comedy Central darling, Stephen Colbert.
The main stage’s production of Taming of the Flu is pure Chicago and a must see for all visitors. The hodgepodge of sketches that make up this production everything from Chicago cabdrivers, to the frigid Chicago winters. Currently showing on the second stage is The Absolute Best Friggin’ Time of Your Life. This satire takes the audience back to the budget surplus, low employment rates, and an era when Clinton was king–in short, audiences are transported back to a simpler time that we call the 19990s.
Steppenwolf
This Theater was founded in the basement of a Highland Park church by actor Gary Sinise in the 1970s. Now located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park area, the Steppenwolf has fashioned itself in one of the premier stages in the city, and the Steppenwolf’s summer billings are sure to only add to its reputation.
This summer, Frank Galati’s production of Samuel Beckett’s famous comedy Endgame will be playing at the downstairs theater of the Steppenwolf from April 1st to June 6th. Samuel Beckett’s touchstone of 20th century absurdest drama tries to make sense of the meaning of life within the confines of a single, dimly lit room, and the results are nothing short of hilarious. Intellectuals and academics will appreciate the panel discussion proctored by the Steppenwolf staff that will take place after the performance.
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, then check out David Sedaris’ performance later on in the month. The part-time playwright, comedian, and author who became famous for chronically his life as a Macy’s Christmas elf in the book Holidays on Ice will be performing a one-man show for Steppenwolf audiences from June 8th-June 13th. Part sketch comedy, part stand-up, Sedaris will be reading passages of his soon-to-released book, Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk: A Modest Bestiary. While this performance may not be family-friendly, we promise that it will be hysterical.
Neo-Futurists
If the Neo-Futurists can be described as anything it’s unconventional. More of a collective of unorthodox outcasts than a theater troupe, this playhouse has become the epicenter for experimental improve and short plays since opening in the 1980s. These productions aren’t for the faint of heart, and their shows are heavy with audience participation, so don’t be surprised if the call you up on stage. They may also keep you there for the duration of the show. However, if you come with an open mind, and you don’t mind standing on stage dressed like a robot, we promise this experience unlike any you’ve ever had in a playhouse.
Too Much Light makes the Baby Go Blind is a hallmark of the Neo-Futurist and a must see for anybody interested in experimental theater. If you’ve ever wondered what thirty plays performed in under 60 minutes looks like, then check out this production tries to do just that. The subject matter ranges from hysterical to heart breaking, and new plays are added each week just so you’ll never see the same show twice.
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