Rhythm of the Rocket Man: An Elton John Tribute * By Nancy Henke-Konopasek
The Rhythm of the Rocket Man starring Colte Julian paying tribute to Sir Elton John was an incredible crowd-pleasing show on May 16 at Theatre at the Center.
"Double-side, Texas" will have you laughing * By Carol Moore
Recommended The Towle Theater’s production of "Double-wide, Texas" is funny, farcical comedy about the inmates – oops inhabitants – of a tiny trailer park just outside Tugaloo, Texas. It has the pratfalls and physical comedy of a typical farce, but not the machine-gun fast delivery – this is Texas, after all! You’ll be laughing at this must-see. 4 Spotlights
"The Merry Wives of Windsor" is a raucous romp * By Carol Moore
Highly Recommended Chicago Shakespeare Theatre’s production of "The Merry Wives of Windsor" is a raucous romp, full of innuendos, deceptions and salacious misadventures! This is the perfect play for anyone who might otherwise feel intimidated by seeing the name Shakespeare attached. 4 Spotlights.
'Going Bacharach' soars with hit songwriter's tunes * By Eloise Marie Valadez
The tunes of one of most popular songwriters in the business are taking centerstage currently in Chicago. "Going Bacharach," a musical revue featuring tunes from the iconic Burt Bacharach, runs through May 17 at Chicago's Apollo Theater.
"safronia" is very much a Chicago story * By Jeffrey Leibham
****HIGHLY RECOMMENDED**** Now that the 2025/2026 season at Lyric Opera of Chicago has come to a close, it is the perfect time to reflect on the amazing number of diverse productions that were presented during General Director, President and CEO John Mangum's inaugural season in his new role. In hindsight, it appears that Lyric may have saved the best for last. "safronia" enjoyed an extremely spirited -- yet sadly brief -- run last week. Created by Chicago's first Poet Laureate, the immensely talented avery r. young, "safronia" quite literally blew the roof off of the venerable opera house during its world premiere there. 4 BIG SPOTLIGHTS
Para.Mar Dance Theatre delivers dynamic choreography in 'Mujeres' * By Eloise Marie Valadez
An exciting new work starred on stage recently at the Reva and David Logan Center at The University of Chicago.
Sensational costumes and standout choreography star in 'The Great Gatsby' * By Eloise Marie Valadez
The story of "The Great Gatsby" is getting a new life on stage. F. Scott's Fitzgerald's literary masterpiece is playing out in a big way at Broadway in Chicago's Cadillac Palace Theatre on Chicago's Randolph Street. The show runs to May 3.
RUTHLESS, THE MUSICAL * “SUCCINCT REVIEWS” BY BOB RUBIN FOR TSP NEWS
If you are expecting a feel-good production like ”South Pacific” or “Annie”, “Ruthless, The Musical” is not. lf you are open to some wild irreverent entertainment with an ending you would never suspect, stop by Citadel Theatre and see their bold and brash production of “Ruthless, The Musical”.
We can’t make any disclosures as this parody of stardom on the stage will show you that no one is who they seem when virtually all the characters are chasing the spotlight. And you thought sports and Jeopardy were competitive?
I had so much fun at "Mrs. Krishnan’s Party" at Chicago Shakespeare * By Carol Moore
**** Highly Recommended I had so much fun at "Mrs. Krishnan’s Party" at Chicago Shakespeare – and it really was a party! A production of Indian Ink Theatre in New Zealand, "Mrs. Krishnan’s Party" is hilarious. Since it’s in the Carl and Marilynn Thoma Upstairs Studio you can also enjoy the best view in the city. This is a must-see! 4 Spotlights
Revival of 'Ma Rainey's Black Bottom' stars at The Goodman * By Eloise Marie Valadez
An August Wilson masterpiece is unfolding on stage at Chicago's Goodman Theatre. "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom" is being presented through May 3 at The Goodman's Albert Theatre. It is part of The Goodman's Centennial Season.