**** Recommended I really enjoyed seeing the TimeLine production and world premier of "The Birth of the Pill." The acting was absolutely superb, the topic timely, the seemingly simple set design cleverly included multiple locations, and I got to see TimeLine’s brand new theater – which is a beautiful space. This play is a must-see, especially for women. 4 Spotlights
**** Highly Recommended If you loved "Dirty Dancing," the 1987 film starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey, you will love "Dirty Dancing: The Musical," playing at Broadway in Chicago’s Nederlander Theatre. The movie, with a few changes, has been transported to the stage. It was obvious that this audience loved the movie, since they greeted every iconic song/scene with cheers. I wish "Dirty Dancing" was playing for a month or two, then everyone could see it twice! I loved this show! 4 BIG Spotlights
**** Recommended Paramount Theatre’s production of "Mean Girls" is very pink! Actually, it’s very funny and it has a couple of interesting twists. I really liked the production – the voices, the spectacular choreography and staging, the costumes and even the very pink scenic design. Although my friend Helen loved the show, it left me cold. I remember those girls. It’s not a good memory. 4 spotlights
A crowd of musical theater fans gathered at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion at Millennium Park recently for Broadway in Chicago's Summer Concert.
**** Highly Recommended "Come from Away" is on my list of top 10 musicals ever! I can’t remember another play which moves me like this one does. In 2026, with the 25th anniversary of 9/11, it’s particularly poignant. Out of that tragedy comes a marvelous story of hope and friendship. No kidding, it’s an emotional rollercoaster; you’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll cheer. Marriott’s production of Come from Away is a must-see. 4 Spotlights
**** Highly Recommended **** Of all the jukebox musicals out there, I think "Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story" might just be my favorite. I remember dancing to Buddy Holly’s music at more than one sock hop – and then crying when I heard about that plane crash – so of course I started dancing in my seat when I heard that first song. In fact, "Buddy" is just like going to a rock concert. Although it’s the story of Buddy Holly’s brief life in the spotlight, Buddy is also a rock concert. Drury Lane will be rockin’ through October 18th. 4 BIG Spotlights
A stellar production of one of the most beloved musicals is soaring onstage courtesy of Music Theater Works || "West Side Story" is currently running through Aug. 30 at The North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie.
**** Recommended "The Notebook," now at the Nederlander Theatre truly brings the story to life. I think Bekah Brunstetter’s adaptation is better than the movie. It’s a play with music, as Ingrid Michaelson’s melodic, emotional score fits the story perfectly Don’t look for big production numbers, flashy choreography or sparkly costumes. Be sure to bring your tissues, you’ll need them! 4 BIG Spotlights
The Outsiders" is back heating up the Cadillac Palace Theatre stage. || The production, in its return visit to The Windy City, runs to Aug. 16 at Cadillac Palace Theatre.
The Pulitzer Prize-nominated play "In the Continuum" is giving audiences something to think about at Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre in Evanston
