Shows To See In Chicago In October
Kevin, September 18th, 2024Check Out The Shows On Everyones Lips This October
We're heading into spooky season, but nothing is terrifying about these shows! This October is heating up with beautiful ballets, soaring operas, and Shakespearean stories - hotter than that pumpkin spice latte that spills down your shirt on the commute.
Lyric Opera - Rigoletto at Civic Opera House
Oct 1 - 6, Civic Opera House
"One of opera's most unforgettable characters battles fate in Verdi's tragic masterpiece."
The Lyric Opera brings back Verdi's fierce and tragic Rigoletto, a tale filled with vengeance and unforgettable arias. Based on Victor Hugo's play La roi s'amuse, this opera explores a father's desperate struggle to save his daughter from a curse he invoked. With a score featuring some of Verdi's best-known compositions, it's a raw, emotional journey you won't want to miss!
Joffrey Ballet - Atonement at Civic Opera House
Oct 17 - 27, Civic Opera House
"A powerful dance of redemption based on a haunting literary classic."
Experience the U.S. premiere of choreographer Cathy Marston's adaptation of Ian McEwan's Atonement. This ballet takes you deep into the story of Briony Tallis, now a celebrated choreographer, as she confronts her guilt and past mistakes through breathtaking dance. A poignant narrative paired with stunning choreography makes this a can't-miss performance!
Inherit The Wind at Albert Goodman Theater
Oct 2 - 13, Albert Goodman Theater
"A gripping courtroom drama that examines science, faith, and the human condition."
Step into the courtroom for Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee's iconic play Inherit The Wind. Based on the historic Scopes Monkey Trial, this production, directed by Henry Godinez, delves into the clash between science and religion. With an impressive cast featuring Alexander Gemignani and Harry Lennix, this Tony Award-winning play is a captivating spectacle of history brought to life.
1776 at Marriott Theatre
Oct 2 - 13, Marriott Theatre
"A thrilling retelling of America's fight for independence."
Before *Hamilton*, there was *1776*! This celebrated musical, which premiered in 1969, tells the dramatic story of America's founding with energy and passion. Directed by Nick Bowling and choreographed by William Carlos Angulo, this production brings history to life in a way that's as entertaining as it is inspiring. A must-see for history and musical fans alike.
The Audience at Drury Lane Theatre Oakbrook Terrace
Oct 2 - 20, Drury Lane Theatre Oakbrook Terrace
"Step into the Queen's private conversations with Britain's political giants."
In Peter Morgan's *The Audience*, you'll witness the imagined weekly conversations between Queen Elizabeth II and her Prime Ministers, spanning decades of British political history. From Winston Churchill to Tony Blair, this behind-the-scenes drama offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of monarchy and politics.
Lyric Opera - Fidelio at Civic Opera House
Oct 2 - 10, Civic Opera House
"A modern reimagining of Beethoven's only opera, filled with love, freedom, and resilience."
Beethoven's only opera, *Fidelio*, returns in a powerful new production by Matthew Ozawa. Set in a government detention center, this updated version reflects modern-day struggles for freedom and justice while retaining the original themes of love and sacrifice. With stunning staging and a deeply emotional score, this opera speaks to both the past and the present.
Pericles at Chicago Shakespeare Theater
Oct 20 - 31, Chicago Shakespeare Theater
"An epic adventure filled with shipwrecks, romance, and redemption."
The Royal Shakespeare Company presents Pericles, one of Shakespeare's lesser-known but deeply adventurous plays. With storms, lost families, and miraculous reunions, this story follows Prince Pericles on an epic journey across the seas. Directed by Tamara Harvey, this production is a vibrant celebration of Shakespeare's storytelling and the 100th international production at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater.
Eddie Izzard at Genesee Theater
Oct 30, Genesee Theater
"A legendary comedian revisits her best moments from over three decades."
Eddie Izzard returns to the stage with The Remix: The First 35 Years, offering a hilarious retrospective of her career. From iconic performances like *Dressed to Kill* to newer material, Izzard delivers her unique brand of intelligent, whimsical, and surreal comedy. Don't miss the chance to see one of comedy's most innovative performers live!
Lewis Black at North Shore Center
Oct 9 - 10, North Shore Center
"Sharp, incisive, and always hilariousLewis Black's final tour is a must-see."
The master of comic rage, Lewis Black, takes his final bow with Goodbye Yeller Brick Road: The Final Tour. Known for his furious rants about the absurdity of modern life, Black's comedy is biting, thought-provoking, and always side-splitting. This tour marks the end of a legendary career, so don't miss your chance to see him live.
Noises Off at Steppenwolf Theatre
Oct 2 - 23, Steppenwolf Theatre
"A chaotic and hilarious farce that will have you laughing uncontrollably."
Michael Frayn's classic British farce Noises Off comes to life with impeccable timing and endless laughter. This play-within-a-play follows a troupe of actors in a disastrous stage production, where everything that can go wrong, does. Full of physical comedy and sharp wit, this show is guaranteed to have you in stitches as you witness the backstage mayhem unfold.
