There is an abundance of theatrical magic on Chicago-area stages this season. From puppetry at Lookingglass Theater to music-filled performances at Writers Theater and Black Ensemble Theater to a wholly reimagined "Nutcracker," local theaters are overflowing with enchantment and serious drama as well.
Joining us with reviews of new shows and seasonal favorites is Hedy Weiss, theater and dance critic for the Chicago Sun-Times.
“Mr. and Mrs. Pennyworth”
Highly Recommended
When: Through Feb. 19, 2017
Where: Lookingglass Theatre at Water Tower Water Works, 821 N. Michigan Ave.
Run time: 95 minutes, with no intermission
“The Hunter and the Bear”
Highly Recommended
When: Through Jan. 22, 2017
Where: Writers Theatre, 325 Tudor Court, Glencoe
Run time: 1 hour and 40 minutes, with no intermission
“The Christians”
Highly Recommended
When: Through Jan. 29, 2017
Where: Steppenwolf Theatre Company, 1650 N. Halsted St.,
Run time: 80 minutes, with no intermission
“The Other Cinderella”
Highly Recommended
When: Through Jan. 8, 2017
Where: Black Ensemble Theater, 4450 N. Clark St.,
Run time: 2 hours and 15 minutes, with one intermission
“The Nutcracker”
Highly Recommended
When: Through Dec. 30
Where: Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Parkway,
Run time: 2 hours and 10 minutes, with one intermission
Related stories:
Grammy Nominee Robbie Fulks Through the Years on WTTW
Dec. 22: Singer-songwriter Robbie Fulks joins us in discussion and performance of two songs that could win Grammy Awards in February.
Joffrey Ballet’s Reimagined ‘Nutcracker’ Inspired by Chicago History
Dec. 22: Summary description here. This can be trimmed down as necessary.
‘Hamilton’ Creator Lin-Manuel Miranda: Chicago is Best Theater Town
Dec. 20: The creator of “Hamilton” talks about Chicago, “Sesame Street” and his theatrical blockbuster.
Catch up on more reviews from the Chicago Sun-Times theater critic.