**** Recommended **** “Little by Little”, an encore production at Hammond’s Towle Theater, is a charming little show about three people, two girls and a guy, who ruin a lifelong friendship with sex! Technically, “Little by Little” is an operetta, since it doesn’t have any dialog, but don’t let that scare you away. The charming lyrics are written with a sense of humor. Don’t miss this must-see. 4 Spotlights (Photos by Wesley Bushby)

**** Highly Recommended **** Theatre at the Center’s “Forever Plaid” is a sweet, funny, feel-good treat for everyone in the family. “Forever Plaid” is a musical revue about a quirky quartet of good-looking guys who sing a slew of golden oldies in harmonies straight out of the ‘50s. Get your tickets for this must-see today! 4 Spotlights

**** Highly Recommended **** Of all the jukebox musicals out there, I think “Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story” might just be my favorite. It’s like going to a rock concert with a story thrown in and I start dancing in my seat as soon as I hear the first song. Buddy Holly’s music is still alive – and still rocking – in the fabulous new American Blues Theater production. Don’t miss this one! 4 BIG Spotlights

***RECOMMENDED*** Interrobang Theatre Project has had a very good year. The third and final show of their eighth season, Craig Wright's "Grace," which has not been presented on a Chicago stage since 2006, wraps up this splendid company's current season in which they were on a quest to explore the pressing question of "What is Truth?" which was addressed so beautifully and boldly in their previous two productions earlier in the season. With "Grace" and its tightly-knit plot structure and small ensemble of four actors, Interrobang ends their season with a bang -- literally. 3 SPOTLIGHTS

**** Highly Recommended **** Men in kilts, swordfights, witches, murder, mayhem – and that’s just the first act! Chicago Shakespeare Theatre’s production of “Macbeth” is not to be missed. Shakespeare’s psychological thriller takes place in a dark world of greed and overwhelming ambition. Add a little moody magic, throw in some smoke and mirrors – and this “Macbeth” should draw just as many gasps as any movie thriller. 4 BIG Spotlights

***** Highly Recommended ***** I have loved the music of “Jesus Christ Superstar” since I first heard the album back in the’70s. I loved it so much I got a babysitter so I could see the first touring production in 1971! In fact, any time “JCS” is playing in the greater Chicago area, I’m there! There’s no doubt that the Lyric Opera’s production is talent-filled and absolutely spectacular. Unfortunately, the music sometimes overpowered the singers. 4 Spotlights

****HIGHLY RECOMMENDED**** Dael Orlandersmith, the playwright, poet and solo performance artist who is a Goodman Theatre Artistic Associate and Resident Artist, has made a remarkable career of creating works that use multiple characters' perspectives to shed light on very dark or controversial subject matter. A Pulitzer Prize finalist (for 2002's "Yellowman") she continues to put various and varied characters under her microscope in an attempt to take a bold look into the souls of the determined individuals that come to life in her works. These creations are invigorated by the razor sharp and precise words that Orlandersmith uses to make each of her diverse characters a unique entity. Many of her plays are stunningly galvanic and "Until the Flood" is no exception. 4 SPOTLIGHTS

**** Highly Recommended **** “Once” is a unique story about two people brought together for a very short amount of time by their love of music. It’s sweet - but definitely not saccharine – poignant, funny, and full of fabulous music. You just can’t resist the magic! Paramount Theatre’s production of “Once” is an absolute must-see. I loved the music of “Once” so much that I bought the soundtrack. By the way, I think the Paramount production might just be better than the national tour! 4 BIG Spotlights