By: Ashmar Mandou
Before the festive, jolly season comes to an end there are plenty of shows occurring around Chicago to enjoy. Whether you are in the mood for music or dance, drama or comedy, we have got you covered. We have put together a list of yuletide shows that guaranteed to boost your holiday spirit.
The Nutcracker at The Joffrey Ballet
Through December 30th
Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Parkway
Set during Chicago’s 1893 World’s Fair, The Nutcracker opens as young Marie and her mother, a sculptress creating the Fair’s iconic Statue of the Republic, host a festive Christmas Eve celebration. The Nutcracker features Tchaikovsky’s classic score performed live by The Chicago Philharmonic. Get your tickets at www.joffrey.org/nutcracker.
Photo Credit: Cheryl Mann
A Christmas Carol at The Goodman Theatre
Through December 30th
The Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St.
Dickens’ holiday classic is the iconic tale of greedy businessman Ebenezer Scrooge, whose sizable bank account is only matched by his disdain for the holidays. One Christmas Eve, Scrooge is visited by four ghosts who take him on a spectacular adventure through his past, present and future, helping him rediscover the joys of life, love and friendship. For tickets, visit www.goodmantheatre.org.
Photo Credit: The Goodman Theatre
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas at Emerald City Theatre
Through December 30th
Emerald City Theatre, 2933 N. Southport Ave.
A merry, modern mystery!
Go on a playful polar odyssey with Emily and her best friend Amos the mouse as they search for Santa’s missing Naughty or Nice List. Teamwork, determination and heart save the day in this fantastic, slapstick holiday affair. For more information, visit www.broadwayinchicago.com
Photo Credit: Broadway in Chicago
Q Brothers Christmas Carol at The Yard at the Shakespeare Theater
Through December 30th
The Yard at Shakespeare Theater, 800 E. Grand Ave.
The holiday treat set to a bangin’ beat is back! Chicago hip-hop sensations, the Q Brothers Collective, turn up the volume on Charles Dickens’ beloved tale, mixing everything from reggae, dancehall, and dubstep to epic rock ballads. For more information, visit www.chicagoshakes.com.
Photo Credit: Chicago Shakespeare Theater
It’s A Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago
Through January 5th
Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave.
Swing by Stage 773 this month and next to see your favorite Christmas movie come to life. With a performance by the American Blues Ensemble, an amazing cast, all your favorite holiday songs, and a serving of milk and cookies, this show epitomizes the holiday spirit. For more information, www.stage773.com.
Photo Credit: Stage 773
That’s Weird, Grandma Rings in the Holidays at Neo-Futurist Theater
Through December 22nd
Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave.
Barrel of Monkeys celebrates the season with THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA Rings in the Holidays, directed by Artistic Director Brandon Cloyd, playing Mondays at 8 pm (plus special weekend performances) through December 22, 2018 at the Neo-Futurist Theater. Tickets are currently available at www.barrelofmonkeys.org.
Photo Credit: That’s Weird, Grandma
A Charlie Brown Christmas at Rosemont Theatre
December 22nd
Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N. River Rd.
This touring production of A Charlie Brown Christmas by Charles M. Schulz features everyone’s favorite Peanuts gang – Linus, Lucy, Snoopy, Sally and more, all led by the lovable Charlie Brown – as they discover the true meaning of Christmas. For more information, visit www.rosemont.com
Photo Credit: Rosemont Theatre
