Best Spring 2014 Theater Productions In Chicago
If there's one thing we can say about theater in Chicago, it's that we're pretty darn lucky. We can see Broadway shows, old favorites, classics and new works from up-and-coming playwrights. We get the mix of veteran thespians and new actors and actresses on stage and can see a great play downtown, in the suburbs, in our local colleges and universities or just about anywhere in Chicago. The following five productions will be staged this spring in the Chicago area and are only a fraction of what's available here. Just make sure you purchase your tickets in advance.
'Chapatti'
Northlight Theatre
9501 Skokie Blvd.
Skokie, IL 60077
(847) 673-6300
www.northlight.org
Date: Through April 13, 2014
Starring Penny Slusher as Betty and John Mahoney as Dan, "Chapatti" is the story of two animal lovers in Dublin (you'll remember Mahoney from his role of Martin Crane in the TV show "Frasier"). The play is directed by BJ Jones, Northlight Theatre's Artistic Director for 14 seasons. If you're looking for a pre- or post-show place to grab a bite to eat, consider checking out the options available at Old Orchard.
'Ramona Quimby'
The Apollo Theater
2540 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago, IL 60614
(773) 935-6100
www.emeraldcitytheatre.com
Date: Through May 18, 2014
Do you and your child like reading Beverly Cleary's classic Ramona Quimby books? Then you'll enjoy watching the books come to life at the family-friendly production of "Ramona Quimby" at The Apollo Theater in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood. Take a look at a year in the life of Ramona as she starts third grade and lives on Klickitat Street in Portland, Ore. The play runs through May 18, 2014, and several performances are scheduled for weekday mornings, making it the ideal destination for a field trip.
'The Sound Of Music'
Lyric Opera of Chicago
20 N. Upper Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60606
(312) 332-2244
www.lyricopera.org
Date: April 25 - May 18, 2014
If you count "The Sound of Music" among your favorite things, then consider picking up tickets to the production at Lyric Opera of Chicago. The Rodgers & Hammerstein classic stars Broadway actress Jenn Gambatese as Maria and Edward Hibbert as Max Detweiler. Running from April 25 through May 18, 2014, matinee and evening performances are scheduled. The running time is approximately three hours.
'Motown the Musical'
Oriental Theatre
24 W. Randolph St.
Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 977-1700
www.broadwayinchicago.com
Date: April 22 - July 13, 2014
For a behind-the-scenes look at iconic Motown music, consider checking out "Motown the Musical." The Broadway play comes to Chicago this spring and explores the story of how Berry Gordy became an established music record producer. The play also portrays Motown stars, including Diana Ross, Smokey Robinson and Marvin Gaye. The play is crammed with hits from a number of performers from Motown, including "Stop! In the Name of Love," "Get Ready" and "You're All I Need to Get By." The play runs from April 22 through July 13, 2014, at the Oriental Theatre in Chicago's Loop neighborhood. Since you're right in the heart of the Loop, you have plenty of options for a meal or a cocktail after the show.
'Henry V'
Chicago Shakespeare Theatre on Navy Pier
800 E. Grand Ave.
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 595-5600
www.chicagoshakes.com
Date: April 29 - June 15, 2014
What do you do when you're a young king who wants to take over France? For those who love the classics, consider seeing a performance of Shakespeare's "Henry V" at the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre on Navy Pier and directed by Christopher Luscombe. While watching the play is one thing, take your theatre-going experience to the next level and catch an in-depth lecture prior to the play. Check out the Pre-Amble schedule for lecture times, which are available on certain dates. Tickets start at $48, and are available for purchase on the Chicago Shakespeare website. The play kicks off April 29 and runs through June 15, 2014.
Related: Best Directors In The Local Theater Scene In Chicago
Megan Horst-Hatch is a runner, reader, baker, gardener, knitter, and other words that end in "-er." She is also the president of Megan Writes, LLC. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
