**** "The Marvelous Wonderettes" is a delightful, surprisingly funny musical with a terrific cast with excellent comedic chops. Some people might call it a jukebox musical, since it’s chock full of the music of the ‘50s and ‘60s, but it’s more than that. Be prepared for a good time, this one is a must see. 3 ½ Spotlights
**** Recommended I didn’t know what to expect when I went to see the Midwest premiere of The Swingset: An Adult Comedy at Theatre at the Center. This special Valentine’s Day performance turned out to be unexpectedly funny and rather charming. If you have a chance to see this engaging story in the future, I recommend it.
****HIGHLY RECOMMENDED The Chicago premiere of Kurt Weill/Georg Kaiser's "Der Silbersee (The Silver Lake)" is clearly an excellent example of that. This exquisite "Der Silbersee" is quite a polished production and, technically speaking, the best work that Chicago Opera Theater has done thus far. 4 SPOTLIGHTS
**** Highly Recommended The Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of "Hamnet," now playing at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, is perfect. Honestly, I read Maggie O’Farrell’s book, "Hamnet," and I have to say there isn’t a single thing I’d change about this play. It was the best adaptation of a book that I’ve ever seen – and the acting is superb! 4 BIG Spotlights
**** Highly Recommended "Holiday" is absolutely charming, a delicious treat in the middle of a dreary, cold winter. This modern adaptation of a Cary-Grant-meets-Katherine-Hepburn comedy will have you laughing in no time flat. It has a brilliant cast, gorgeous costumes and two sumptuously decorated sets. "Holiday" is a must-see! 4 BIG Spotlights
DEI * AFFIRMATIVE ACTION * MERIT BASED * FIXING DISCRIMINATION || This “fairness” is the subject of the stage play, “Admissions”
**** Highly Recommended "American Icons" is a demonstration of all that makes the Joffrey such a leader in contemporary ballet. Opening night was totally awesome! The Joffrey’s classically trained, incredibly talented dancers execute the most complicated choreography with flawless technique and timing – and they make it look easy! 4 BIG Spotlights
***RECOMMENDED*** Great artists seek inspiration from the most unlikely of sources. For the beloved American soprano Renée Fleming, processing the effects of constant isolation and quarantine following the recent global health pandemic, that solace was found in the tranquility of nature.
There's something funny happening onstage at Oil Lamp Theater in Glenview. The quaint theater opened its 2026 season with "The Outsider," continuing through Feb. 2
