You know him from “The Neighborhood,” “The Last O.G.,” “The Proud Family” and much more.

Don’t miss your chance to catch Cedric the Entertainer live on tour, one-night-only, in his only Chicago-area stop, Saturday, August 8 at 8 p.m. at Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd. in downtown Aurora. Tickets are $41-$161*. 

For tickets, visit ParamountAurora.com, call (630) 896-6666, or stop by the Paramount box office Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., or until show time on show days. For group discounts, contact Melissa Striedl, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (630) 723-2461. *Prices are for in-person purchases. Additional fees apply for phone and online orders.

Of course, Cedric is a veteran stand-up icon known for warm, story‑driven humor, sharp observations about family, work, and everyday life, and the playful crowd interaction that made him a household name. A star of The Neighborhood on CBS, the Barbershop films, and the Original Kings of Comedy, Cedric blends old‑school showmanship with modern timing, moving from quick one‑liners to vivid storytelling and characters. 

Audiences can expect clean but grown‑folks language, improvisation with the crowd, topical bits and call‑backs that reward attention. This show includes some adult language and content. Recommended for 18+

More about Cedric the Entertainer

American actor, comedian, and game show host Cedric The Entertainer is one of the world’s premier performers on stage, film and television, with a career spanning 30 years.

Currently, Cedric is starring in and executive producing the CBS Television hit comedy The Neighborhood, hosting and executive producing The Greatest #AtHome Videos, executive producing the dramedy Johnson for Bounce TV, and recently executive produced and hosted the 73rd Annual Primetime Emmy Awards. He also appears co-starring in The Last O.G., opposite Tracy Morgan and Tiffany Haddish, and is reprising his role as Uncle Bobby in Disney+’s The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder – the long-anticipated revival of the groundbreaking animated series The Proud Family. Cedric also won a 2023 and 2026 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series for The Neighborhood.

He was recently seen in a dramatic role portraying legendary civil rights activist and leader, Ralph Abernathy, in the feature film, Son Of The South, executive produced by Spike Lee and directed by Lee’s long-time editor, Barry Alexander Brown; The Opening Act, about a group of comedians trying to breakthrough in the stand-up comedy world; and will soon begin production of the sequel to his hit Johnson Family Vacation, that he will again star in and produce.

Cedric’s other noteworthy television credits include the comedy series The Soul Man, which he co-created and executive produced through A Bird And A Bear Entertainment; The Steve Harvey Show, which he won four NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy; the sketch comedy series Cedric The Entertainer Presents, which he starred in and executive produced and was honored the AFTRA Award of Excellence for; served as host of season 12 of the hit game show Who Wants To Be A Millionaire; and was featured as the voice of Bobby Proud in the Disney animated series The Proud Family, that he also received an NAACP Image Award for.

His versatile film work spans genres from memorable performances in comedies such as the hit Barbershop franchise, Johnson Family Vacation, The Original Kings of Comedy concert film which chronicled his record breaking Kings of Comedy Tour with fellow comedians Steve Harvey, D.L Hughley and the late Bernie Mac; to dramas like Paul Schrader’s critically acclaimed Oscar nominated drama First Reformed, co-starring Ethan Hawke and Amanda Seyfried; and his signature baritone voice in animated hits such as Disney’s Madagascar and Planes franchises, Ice Age 2 and Dr. Dolittle 2, among many others.

In addition to his achievements in television and film, Cedric is also an accomplished author. His first book, “Flipping Boxcars,” was released in 2023. Cedric has also ventured into entrepreneurship, launching a wine brand named Setta in honor of his late mother, Rosetta B. Kyles. Furthermore, he introduced a premium barbecue brand called AC Barbeque in collaboration with his longtime friend, Anthony Anderson. For more, visit iamcedric.com.

Northlight Theatre's Board of Directors proudly presents Northlight Theatre's Grand Opening Gala, "Celebrating our Past, Building our Future," marking the culmination of the company's 50^th Anniversary Season and the beginning of a new era in Evanston. The Grand Opening benefit event will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Northlight Theatre, 1012 Church Street in Evanston, IL. Supporters and friends will enjoy an evening of food, fun, entertainment and more at Northlight's brand-new home in Evanston.

Musical entertainment will be by celebrated performers and Evanston natives Abby Mueller (Grammy nominee, Six: The Musical), Andrew Mueller (Beautiful: The Carole King Musical), Tony Award winner Jessie Mueller (Waitress and Beautiful) and Matt Mueller (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child), with music direction by Northwestern University alumnus Ian Weinberger (Hamilton, Chess). The Gala evening's Master of Ceremonies is Rob Lindley and the auctioneer is Chris Hensley.

The evening on August 15 will kick off at 6:00pm with appetizers and cocktails in the lobby and food stations throughout the building. At 8:00pm guests will enter the brand-new 287-seat theatre for musical entertainment by siblings Abby, Andrew, Jessie, and Matt Mueller, accompanied by Ian Weinberger. These five born and bred Evanstonians have gone on to regional, national, and Broadway acclaim, and are coming home to Evanston for a rare joint appearance. The evening will continue with a live auction and paddle raise, followed by dessert, DJ and dancing in the second-floor rehearsal room.

The building's ribbon cutting will be held on July 28, 2026. The inaugural season in Evanston will begin on September 9, 2026, with the world premiere of The Front Page, adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher from the original by Ben Hecht and Charles MacArthur. The production, directed by Artistic Director BJ Jones and featuring Kate Fry and Timothy Edward Kane, runs September 9 - October 18, 2026 with the opening set for Friday, September 18, 2026.

Northlight Theatre's new theater, education, and community space is a major component in the arts and cultural scene in Chicagoland and the North Shore and features 287 comfortable seats with excellent sight lines, state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, a dedicated box office and contemporary bar in the lobby, a second floor rehearsal and event space, and lounge and gathering areas on the first and second floors. Located in the heart of downtown, with easy, nearby access to parking and public transportation via CTA and Metra, Northlight will contribute to a vibrant local economy and will serve as an economic driver for downtown Evanston.

Artistic Director BJ Jones comments, "Opening our brand-new theatre in our founding hometown is a truly special moment. I cannot begin to list the artists, ticket buyers and donors who, over 50 years, delivered us to this moment. In their honor, we celebrate this special evening by sharing the outstanding, homegrown talent of the Muellers and the joy of welcoming our nearest and dearest supporters to our new stage.

Executive Director Timothy J. Evans adds, "After five decades, Northlight Theatre finally has a home of its own. A home in the heart of a revitalized downtown Evanston entertainment district steps from public transportation, parking, restaurants, shops, and Northwestern University. Our long-awaited homecoming to Evanston will transform the theatre landscape on the North Shore and Chicago. The New Northlight will serve as a vital place for exchanging ideas, storytelling, community gathering and a long-needed cultural hub for the many communities we serve. We can't wait to share it." 

Proceeds from the event will benefit Northlight Theatre's powerful work onstage, extensive youth education programs, and meaningful community partnerships, as well as the Arts for Everyone Free Ticket program which breaks down the barriers to accessing theatre starting with the price of a ticket.

Tickets are $500. Corporate and individual sponsorships are also available at levels from $5000 to $25,000. Tickets are available for purchase at northlight.org/gala. To inquire about sponsorships, contact Northlight Theatre at 847.563.8458.

The Gala Chair is Stacy Hetherington Simpson. The Gala Committee is Candace Corr, Timothy J. Evans, Sandra Farrow, Barb Goodman, Kim Hoopingarner, Abigail Kanes, Mikey Laird, Barbara Liss, Trimmy Stamell, and Nina Uziel-Miller.

The Northlight Board of Trustees is: Robert J. Regan, Chair; Julie Chernoff, Senior Vice-Chair; Donna Frett, Vice-Chair; Tobi Laczkowski, Vice-Chair; Paul Epner, Treasurer; Paul Lehner, Secretary; and Jim Allen, Percy Berger, Carole Cahill, Hamilton Chang, Jennifer W. Christensen, Diana Cohen, Northlight Theatre Executive Director Timothy Evans, Sandra H. Farrow, J. Douglas Gray, Freddi Greenberg, Northlight Theatre Artistic Director BJ Jones, Barbara Liss, Dennis Marino, Mark McCarville, Joanell McKenna, Vasu Modekurti, Meghan Otis, Brenton Rogers, Michele Y. Rogers, Reetu Gowdar Sanders, Bob Silverman, Stacy Hetherington Simpson, Craig Smith, Kent Swanson, Nina Uziel-Miller, Dr. Eric Witherspoon, and Gifford Zimmerman.

Gala Sponsors to date are Premier Level: Bulley & Andrews, Tom Stringer Design Partners; Gold Level: Hagerty, Sloan; Silver Level: Endeavor Health, Exelon, Kirkland & Ellis, LionBird; Bronze Level: Byline Bank, CoBank, Eckenhoff Saunders Architects, Grumman|Butkus Associates, Katten, Mabadi Group, Northwestern University Neighborhood and Community Relations, Quarles, UL Research Institutes and UL Standards & Engagement; Special Event Sponsors: Edward Jones, Golub & Company, GreenState Credit Union, John J. Cahill Inc, Mather, Nature's Perspective Landscaping, Romano Wealth Management, Rotary International,  Schuler Shook, Trulee Evanston; and Individual Sponsors: Ann & Brian Balusek, Marcia Caulkins, Paul Lehman and Ronna Stamm, The Martel Family, Mark McCarville, Joanell and Jim McKenna, The Lloyd Morgan Family, Judy Newton,  Sam and Marianne Oliva, Eleanor and William Revelle, Catherine and Bart Rocca, Ingrid and Bill Stafford, and Anne and Greg Taubeneck.

About the Artists

Abby Mueller (Performer) garnered a Drama Desk Award and Grammy nomination for originating the role of Jane Seymour in the Tony Award-winning hit Six: The Musical on Broadway. She can be heard on the landmark Original Broadway Cast Recording Six: Live on Opening Night. After originating the role of Carole for the First National Tour of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Abby was brought back twice to reprise her critically acclaimed performance on Broadway. Other credits include Kinky Boots on Broadway and extensive regional roles. Favorites include Les Misérables (Fantine), The Last 5 Years (Cathy), My Fair Lady (Eliza Doolittle), Miss Saigon (Ellen), The Three Musketeers (Constance), and 1776 (Abigail Adams). TV: The Equalizer, Evil, America's Got Talent, The Today Show, The View, Seth Meyers and Jimmy Fallon. In addition to working with young people through masterclasses and private coaching, Abby enjoys performing her own cabaret concerts and being a guest vocalist with symphonies and arts organizations across the country. Check out her Broadway.com Vlog "Yas, Queen!" on YouTube, and follow Abby on social media @abcmuell!

Andrew Mueller (Performer) is an Evanston native and has watched his family on many a stage over the years. Chicago credits include: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Jeff Award) and Little Shop of Horrors at Marriott Lincolnshire, Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812, Translations, and Leopoldstadt at Writers Theatre, and Jesus Christ Superstar at Lyric Opera. Off-Broadway: Peter and the Starcatcher and Alice By Heart. With his brother, Matt: Man of La Mancha at Marriott and Peter and the Starcatcher at Drury Lane Oakbrook. With his sister, Jessie: Merrily We Roll Along at Music Theatre Co. With his sister, Abby: a handful of concerts. He has been a fan of his siblings for many years now and might be the reason Ian got tangled up in this whole situation. And he is thrilled for Northlight to bring live theater back to Evanston.

Jessie Mueller (Performer) is an Evanston-born Tony and Grammy Award-winning artist.  She was last seen on Broadway in Tracy Lett's The Minutes. Other recent credits include the Kennedy Center's Guys & Dolls, The Music Man, Julie Jordan in the Broadway revival of Rodgers and Hammerstein's Carousel (Tony & Grammy nominations, Drama Desk Award), originating the roles of both Jenna in Waitress (Tony, DD & Grammy noms) and Carole King in Beautiful-The Carole King Musical (Tony, Grammy & DD Awards.) Concert appearances include Carnegie Hall, Chicago's Lyric Opera, Jazz at Lincoln Center, and the Metropolitan Opera.  Film and Television: Steven Spielberg's The Post, A Good Person, Madam Secretary, Blue Bloods, Hulu's Candy, and Lifetime's Patsy & Loretta.  She can be heard on Netflix' Centaurworld and Wondery's Melon's House Party. New studio recordings include My Heart Says Go and Diary of A Wimpy Kid, The Musical. She is an Arts Education champion for groups such as Rosie's Theatre Kids (rosiestheaterkids.org) and a long-time supporter of The Entertainment Community Fund (entertainmentcommunity.org), Broadway Cares Equity Fights Aids (broadwaycares.org), and Chicago's own Season of Concern (seasonofconcern.org). In her spare time, she enjoys singing with these 3 goofballs and playing her favorite role to date: Mom to Ollie! She is so excited to have live theatre back here in her home town!

Matt Mueller (Performer) Broadway: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Ron Weasley. Tour: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Ron Weasley, The Play That Goes Wrong – Chicago. Regional: Once (Writers Theatre), Taming of the Shrew, Julius Caesar, Merry Wives (Chicago Shakespeare Theater), Man of La Mancha (Marriott Theatre), Peter and the Starcatcher (Drury Lane Theatre), Shining Lives (Northlight Theatre), Shakespeare in Love, Rhinoceros, Hero: the Musical (Asolo Repertory Theatre), Dial "M" for Murder (Indiana Repertory Theatre), The Mousetrap (Milwaukee Rep), Peter and the Starcatcher, Sense & Sensibility (Lyric Repertory Company), multiple productions at Utah Shakespeare Festival, Colorado Shakespeare Festival and Boulder Ensemble Theatre Company, and multiple productions of Woody Guthrie's American Song. Television includes: "Chicago Justice" Film includes: Popper Baxton's Sickly Stew.

Rob Lindley (Master of Ceremonies) Northlight audiences may know Rob's work from directing 2024's 2 Pianos 4 Hands and the Jeff Award-Winning hit Songs for Nobodies (2021) and appearing onstage in Andy Warhol in Iran and in Funnyman. Other acting credits include shows at Court Theatre, Marriott Lincolnshire, Drury Lane Oakbrook, Writers, Victory Garden, and About Face. Rob also appeared in Titanique (Broadway in Chicago/Porchlight) and in the National Tour of Phantom of the Opera. Rob has hosted and curated concerts for many Chicago organizations and theatres, most notably The Chicago Humanities Festival and Ravinia Festival with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and the (Queer) Sacred Space Salon each month at Lincoln Park Presbyterian Church. 

Ian Weinberger is the music director of Chess on Broadway. His other Broadway credits as music director and/or pianist include Hamilton, Freestyle Love Supreme, Kinky Boots, The Book of Mormon, Side Show, Rocky the Musical and Chaplin. Orchestrations/arrangements: Titanic, Disney's Zootopia and Moana Jr. Concerts: Orchestra of St. Luke's, Louisiana Philharmonic, Jacksonville Symphony. TV: Fosse/Verdon, The Eyes of the World, American Heart in WWI, The Tony Awards. Cast albums: Chess, A New Brain, The Christmas Schooner, The Theory of Relativity. He is a proud Evanston native and graduate of Northwestern University (music education/percussion performance) and NYU (jazz piano).

Chris Hensley (Auctioneer) is a nationally recognized, award-winning benefit auctioneer who helps nonprofit organizations turn generosity into lasting impact. Chris partners with charities across the country, leading high-energy live auctions and paddle raises that inspire giving. In 2025, Chris helped raise more than $30 million – and set a charity auction record with the sale of a Dale Chihuly Basket Series glass bowl. Chris was recently recognized as the nation's second-best charity auctioneer in the Bid Masters Finale, earning the top distinction for most funds raised among an elite field of peers.

Northlight Theatre aspires to promote change of perspective and encourage compassion by exploring the depth of our humanity across a bold spectrum of theatrical experiences, reflecting our community to the world and the world to our community.

Founded in 1974 with its inaugural season in 1975-76, the organization has mounted over 250 productions, including more than 45 world premieres. Northlight has earned 238 Joseph Jefferson Award nominations and 37 Awards, as well as 11 Edgerton Foundation for New Play Awards. As one of the area's premier theatre companies, Northlight is a regional magnet for critical and professional acclaim, as well as talent of the highest quality.

Northlight is supported in part by generous contributions from BMO Harris Bank; Bulley & Andrews; Byline Bank; ComEd, An Exelon Company; Dr. Scholl Foundation; Eckenhoff Saunders Architects, Inc.; The Field Foundation of Illinois; Full Circle Foundation; Grumman Butkus Associates; Hagerty Consulting; Illinois Arts Council, a state agency; John R Halligan Charitable Fund; LionBird; Lloyd A. Fry Foundation; Mabadi Realty; Mammel Family Foundation; Modestus Bauer Foundation; Northwestern University; Paul M. Angell Family Foundation; Pritzker Foundation; The Schubert Foundation, Inc.; The Sullivan Family Foundation; The Weatherlow Foundation; Tom Stringer Design Partners.

A Red Orchid Theatre is thrilled to announce a remount of its critically-acclaimed, father-daughter drama Birds of North America, returning for a limited engagement September 10 – October 4, 2026 at 1531 N. Wells St. in Chicago's Old Town neighborhood. Written by Anna Ouyang Moench and directed by Artistic Director Kirsten Fitzgerald*, the remount will feature the full original cast and creative team. Single tickets go on sale Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at 12 pm at aredorchidtheatre.org or by calling (312) 943-8722. 

Reprising their original roles in Birds of North America are Ensemble Member John Judd* with Cassidy Slaughter-Mason. Understudies include Sahar Dika and Guy Wicke.

About the Production:

John and his daughter Caitlyn are birders. As they scan the skies over their backyard in suburban Maryland looking for elusive birds, years go by. Relationships begin and end. Children grow up and parents age. The climate and the world change in small and vast ways. Birds of North America takes a close look at the relationship of a father and daughter over the course of a decade as they struggle to understand the parts of one another that defy understanding. 

Birds of North America received critical acclaim during its sell-out Chicago premiere:

★★★★

"A gorgeous little 90-minute two-hander, a beautifully acted and directed

father-daughter play capable of transporting you away... I was transported"

"[John] Judd, one of the Chicago theater's most remarkable actors [is] a perfect fit for this role...

a really beautiful performance and one of Judd's best. (I've seen many.)"

–Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune

★★★½

"A gripping generational dialogue... Slaughter-Mason's performance in this production is moving."

–Mike Davis, Chicago Sun-Times/WBEZ Chicago

RECOMMENDED! "A tender portrait that walks the taut line

between pain and sentimentality with the vivid humor of recognition."

–Irene Hsiao, Chicago Reader

The production team includes Morgan Laszlo (Scenic Designer), Ben Argenta Kress (Costume Designer), Seojung Jang (Lighting Designer), Ethan Korvne (Composer & Sound Designer), Spencer Diaz Tootle (Props Designer and Set Dressing), Jojo Brown (Dramaturg), Amy Carpenter (Assistant Director), Kyle Stoffers (Casting Director), Tom Daniel (Technical Director). Alivia Arizaga (Stage Manager) and Faith Locke (Assistant Stage Manager).

Subscribers for A Red Orchid's soon-to-be-announced 2026-2027 Season may add Birds of North America to their package as at a discounted rate. Season subscriptions will be available in July 2026.

*Denotes A Red Orchid Theatre Ensemble Member

PRODUCTION DETAILS:

Title: Birds of North America

Playwright: Anna Ouyang Moench
Director: Artistic Director Kirsten Fitzgerald*
Cast: Ensemble Member John Judd* (John) with Cassidy Slaughter-Mason (Caitlyn)

Understudies: Sahar Dika and Guy Wicke

Location: A Red Orchid Theatre, 1531 N. Wells St., Chicago

Dates: Opening: Thursday September 10, 2026 at 7 pm

Regular run: Friday, September 11 – Sunday, October 4, 2026 Curtain Times: Thursdays and Fridays at 7 pm; Saturdays 3 pm & 7 pm; and Sundays at 3 pm.

Tickets: $61*. Access, student, senior and group discounts available.  Single tickets go on sale Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at 12 pm at aredorchidtheatre.org or by calling (312) 943-8722. *Ticket prices include a processing fee.

About the Artists:

Anna Ouyang Moench (Playwright, she/her) is an award-winning playwright and screenwriter. Her plays include Your Local Theater Presents: A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens, Again, Man of God, Birds of North America, Mothers and Sin Eaters. Anna's work has been produced at the La Jolla Playhouse, Williamstown Theatre Festival, the Geffen Playhouse, East West Players, the Playwrights Realm, NAATCO at the Public Theater, A Red Orchid Theater Company, The Gift Theatre, and many others. She is a former Jerome Fellow at the Playwrights' Center, Van Lier fellow at the Lark and Page One fellow at the Playwrights Realm. Awards include two 2023 WGA Awards for her work on Severance (Apple TV+), the 2020 Steinberg Playwright Award, the Gerbode Special Award in the Arts, the Paul Stephen Lim Playwriting Award from the Kennedy Center, and the NYFA Award in Playwriting/Screenwriting. Anna received her MFA in Playwriting from UCSD and now lives

in Los Angeles with her family.

Kirsten Fitzgerald (Director, she/her) is a proud member of the Ensemble at A Red Orchid Theatre and has served as the Artistic Director since 2008. Recent directing credits include the world premiere of Gorgeous by Keiko Green at Raven Theatre, The Moors at A Red Orchid (Jeff Award for Best Production and Best Director of a Play-Midsize) and Dance Nation at Northwestern University's Wirtz Center. As an actor Kirsten has originated roles in the world premieres of The Cave, Grey House, Traitor, Pilgrim's Progress, Weapon of Mass Impact, and more (A Red Orchid); Swing State, I hate It Here (Goodman); Lettie, Appropriate (Victory Gardens); Mary Page Marlow, The Qualms (Steppenwolf). TV: Dark Matter, Shining Girls, Somebody Somewhere, The Exorcist, Sirens, The Big Leap, Chicago Med/Fire/Justice, Underemployed, ER. Film: Widows, Working Man. Kirsten is represented by Grossman & Jack Talent.

John Judd (John, he/him) last appeared on the A Red Orchid Theatre stage in Six Men Dressed Like Joseph Stalin, and was previously seen in The Cave, The Malignant Ampersand, and Gagarin Way, as well as the McCarter Theatre's presentation of Simpatico. A Chicago based actor for forty years, John has acted at The Goodman, Steppenwolf, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Writer's Theatre, Court Theatre, Drury Lane, Northlight, Shattered Globe, Lookingglass, Victory Gardens and Next, as well as numerous regional, international and Off-Broadway venues.

Cassidy Slaughter-Mason (Caitlyn, she/her) is a Chicago based actor and writer. Recent theater credits include: Brooklyn Laundry (Northlight Theatre), The Luckiest (Raven Theatre, Equity Jeff Award for Best Performer in a Principal Role), How a Boy Falls (Northlight Theatre), Kiss (Haven Theatre), Significant Other (Theatre Wit/About Face) and Rapture Blister Burn (Goodman Theatre, Equity Jeff nomination for Performer in a Supporting Role). Film and TV credits include: All Happy Families, Ultra-City Smiths, Chicago Fire and Easy. Her short film Rabbit Rabbit (co-written with Poppy Golland) will stream this spring on OpenTV. Cassidy is represented by Paonessa Talent Agency.

About A Red Orchid Theatre:

A Red Orchid Theatre has served as an artistic focal point in the heart of the Old Town community of Chicago since 1993 and was honored with a 2016 MacArthur Award for Creative and Effective Institutions. Over the past 32 years, its Resident Ensemble has welcomed into its fold an impressive array of award-winning actors, playwrights and theatre artists with the firm belief that live theatre is the greatest sustenance for the human spirit. A Red Orchid is well known and highly acclaimed for its fearless approach to performance and design in the service of unflinchingly intimate stories.  

A Red Orchid Theatre is: Karen Aldridge, Lance Baker, Kamal Angelo Bolden, Esteban Andres Cruz, Dado, Mike Durst, Sherman Edwards, Myron Elliott, Jennifer Engstrom, Kirsten Fitzgerald, Joseph Fosco, Steve Haggard, Levi Holloway, Mierka Girten, Larry Grimm, John Judd, Karen Kawa, Karen Kessler, Travis A. Knight, Danny McCarthy, Shade Murray, Brett Neveu, Sadieh Rifai, Grant Sabin, Michael Shannon, Guy Van Swearingen, Doug Vickers and Natalie West.  

Following an acclaimed extended run at Raven Theatre, Dave Malloy's "unique, ravishing and resplendent" (Chicago Theatre Review) a cappella musical Octet transfers to Goodman Theatre for a two-week run this summer. Directed by Keira Fromm—Associate Director of The Goodman's Iceboy! or The Completely Untrue Story of How Eugene O'Neill Came to Write The Iceman Cometh—with music direction by Nick Sula (Kokandy Productions' Jekyll & Hyde) and choreography by Laura Savage (The Lord of the Rings International Tour), The Goodman's presentation of the Raven Theatre production will feature Raven's original cast—including Neala Barron (Porchlight Theatre's Fun Home), Elliot Esquivel (Lookingglass Theatre's White Rooster), Joryhebel Ginorio (Theo Ubique's The Secret Garden), Jordan Golding (A Christmas Carol), Teressa LaGamba (Paramount Theatre's Waitress), Ryder Dean McDaniel (Court Theatre's Taming of the Shrew), Sam Shankman (Court Theatre's Falsettos) and Grace Steckler (Writers Theatre's As You Like It).

The Goodman presents Raven Theatre's production of Dave Malloy's Octet in the 400-seat flexible Owen Theatre July 15-26. For tickets ($44-$94, subject to change), call 312.443.3800 or purchase online at GoodmanTheatre.org/Octet. This project is partially supported by a grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE). This programming is also supported in part by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council.  

"I'm thrilled that Octet will receive an encore production this summer at the Goodman Theatre! Our whole team is stacked with the most generous and talented group of artists whose abundant love for the show is clear from the moment the first song begins," said Director Keira Fromm, who is also the associate director of The Goodman's upcoming world-premiere musical Iceboy! or The Completely Untrue Story of How Eugene O'Neill Came to Write The Iceman Cometh, starring Megan Mullally and Nick Offerman. "I'm overjoyed that the tiny ember I carried for this piece has caught fire and will be shared with so many others. It's a balm to put down your phone and be in the room with this incredible musical, and I can't wait for a wider audience to experience it."

"Octet has been a rare and remarkable experience here at the Raven, and we are so very excited to partner with The Goodman in creating a downtown extension for this production," said Raven Theatre Executive Artistic Director Jonathan Berry. "At its heart, Raven is always looking to build community, and this is a fantastic opportunity to share this production that we're so proud of with a wider audience."

In an anonymous meeting room on the North Side of Chicago, a group of people—always eight—gathers to sing. Best known for the Broadway hit Natasha, Pierre, & The Great Comet Of 1812, Dave Malloy's Octet uses chamber-inspired a cappella music to explore the total impact of life online. Hailed by The New York Times as "the most original and topical musical of the year" for its 2019 Off-Broadway premiere, this inventive and acutely relevant piece reflects the perils of the digital age.  

The Goodman Presents Raven Theatre's Production of Dave Malloy's Octet

Music, Lyrics, Book and Vocal Arrangements by Dave Malloy

Directed by Keira Fromm

Music Directed by Nick Sula

Choreographed by Laura Savage

Neala Barron...Jessica
Elliot Esquivel...Toby
Joryhebel Ginorio...Velma
Jordan Golding...Marvin
Teressa LaGamba...Paula
Ryder Dean McDaniel...Ed
Sam Shankman...Henry
Grace Stecklerr...Karly

CREATIVE TEAM

Scenic Designer...Milo Bue
Lighting Designer...Maximo Grano de Oro 
Co-Sound Designer...Christopher Kriz 
Co-Sound Designer...Hannah Kwak 
Costume Designer...Maegan Pate 
Props Coordinator...Paloma Locsin 
Master Electrician...Ruby Lowe 
Associate Scenic Designer...Wynn Lee 
Assistant Director and Dance Captain...Mads Wren 
Music Captain...Joe Giovannetti 
Assistant Master Electrician...Emmitt Socey 
Production Manager...Lucy Whipp 

Casting and Dramaturgy by Catherine Miller. JC Widman and Faith Locke are the Stage Managers.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting wonder, vibrant magic and joyous celebration that is Mexican folkloric dance when Ballet Folklorico Quetzalcoatl presents its 43rd Anniversary Concert, Thursday, July 30 at 7:30 p.m. at Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd. in downtown Aurora. 

Experience the charming, diverse folkloric dance styles of Mexican culture, cultivated right here in the Fox Valley. Tickets are $27-$32. For tickets and information, visit ParamountAurora.com call (630) 896-6666, or stop by the Paramount Theatre box office, 23 E. Galena Blvd. in downtown Aurora, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and until show time on show days. Children two and under are admitted free. *Prices are for in-person purchases. Additional fees apply for phone and online orders.

Based in Aurora, Ballet Folklorico Quetzalcoatl is an internationally celebrated Mexican folk dance troupe that has delighted audiences for over 40 years around Illinois and as far as Mexico with its colorful costumes, wonderful music and electrifying choreography. The group originally formed to meet the need to preserve one of the most important aspects of Mexican culture, the folkloric dance. Juan Manuel “Nery” Cruz, originally from San Luis Potosi, Mexico, is the group’s director and choreographer. 

The name "Quetzalcoatl" originates from the ancient Mexican and northern Central American civilizations. It means “snake or serpent with feathers of quetzal,” which implies something divine or precious in the Nahuatl language. Quetzalcoatl was also the god of wisdom of the primitive Mexicans, a god of the air, or sun-god, who instructed them in the use of agriculture and metals.

Don’t miss this magnificent community celebration of Mexico’s rich culture, an amazing pageant of dazzling costumes, infectious music and high-energy traditional folklore dance numbers still performed in the villages of Mexico’s different regions. For more, visit bfquetzalcoatl.org.

For the first time in company history, Oak Park Festival Theatre presents two productions in repertory: William Shakespeare's HAMLET and Oscar Wilde's THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST.

Though separated by centuries and radically different in tone, both plays explore questions of identity, performance, truth, and societal expectation. Presented on alternating evenings throughout the summer, the productions invite audiences to experience two of the theatrical canon's most enduring works in conversation with one another. 

In HAMLET, Prince Hamlet returns home following his father's death and his mother's swift revenge, only to discover a kingdom haunted by betrayal, suspicion, and revenge. 

In THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST, Jack Worthing and Algernon Moncrieff navigate a web of mistaken identities, secret engagements, and social satire as they attempt to win the affections of two very particular women. 

HAMLET

Written By: William Shakespeare

Directed By: Peter G. Andersen

Cast: Brew Bos (Hamlet), Brenna Distassio (Laertes), Olive Gallagher (Ophelia), Pedro Jimenez (Rosencrantz), Gabriel Armstrong (Guildenstern), Patrice Egleston (Polonius), Jodi Gage (Gertrude), Josh Carpenter** (Claudius), Lucas Prizant (Horatio), and Charls Sedgwick Hall** (Ghost/Player/Gravedigger)

Understudy Cast: Lucas Prizant (Hamlet), Avery Dulak (Laertes), Anya Moeske (Ophelia), Ben Crane (Rosencrantz/Guildenstern), Julia Rowley (Polonium/Gertrude), August Foreman (Claudius/Ghost/Player/Gravedigger), Jamille Calixte (Horatio).

Production Team: Patrick Starner (Production Manager), Andy Cahoon (Technical Director), Tessa Huber  (Stage Manager), Chrissy Roy (Assistant Stage Manager), Devin Cameron (Lighting Director), Evan Frank (Scenic Designer), Taylor Pfenning (Costume Designer) Duncan Hon (Master Electrician), Trent Jones (Scenic Painter), Sophia De La Torre (Board Mixer), and Jack Short (Box Office Manager).

** Denotes Membership in Actors' Equity Association

Dates: July 1 – August 15, 2026 (previews July 1, July 3)

Schedule: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. Select dates only. See website for complete schedule.

Location: Austin Gardens, 167 Forest Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302

Tickets: General Admission ($40); seniors ($30); students ($15); previews ($20); children under 12 ($5). Group discounts available for groups of 10 or more. Additional booking fees apply. 

Box Office: www.oakparkfestival.com 

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST

Written By: Oscar Wilde

Directed By: Kathryn Walsh

Cast: August Foreman (Algernon), Chad Bay (Jack), Sonia Goldberg (Gwendolyn), Aurora Pennepacker** (Cecily), Drew Bos (Merriman/Lane), Barbara Zahora** (Lady Bracknell), Gabriel Armstrong (Chausible), and Jodi Gage (Miss Prism). 

Understudy Cast: Gabriel Armstrong (Algernon), Pedro Jimenez (Jack), Olive Gallagher (Gwendolyn/Cecily), Evan Ozer (Merriman/Lane/Chasible), Belinda Bremner (Lady Bracknell), Julia Rowley (Miss Prism).

Production Team: Patrick Starner (Production Manager), Andy Cahoon (Technical Director), Chrissy Roy (Stage Manager), Tessa Huber (Assistant Stage Manager), Devin Cameron (Lighting Director), Evan Frank (Scenic Designer), Phoebe Boynton (Costume Designer) Duncan Hon (Master Electrician), Sophia De La Torre (Board Mixer), and Jack Short (Box Office Manager).

** Denotes Membership in Actors' Equity Association

Dates: June 30 – August 14, 2026 (previews June 30, July 2, July 4)

Schedule: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. Select dates only. See website for complete schedule.

Location: Austin Gardens, 167 Forest Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302

Tickets: General Admission ($40); seniors ($30); students ($15); previews ($20); children under 12 ($5). Group discounts available for groups of 10 or more. Additional booking fees apply. 

Box Office: www.oakparkfestival.com 

Now fully activated, Collaboraction Theatre Company’s new House of Belonging in the Kimball Arts Center, 1757 N. Kimball Ave in Humboldt Park, is a sleek, 4,000-square foot space featuring a new 99-seat flexible studio theater and a 50-seat cabaret with cafe and bar.

In addition to its own productions, Collaboraction is introducing its new You Belong Here series. Curated by company member Sandra Delgado, You Belong Here provides a home for independent artists and groups at any stage in their career, with an emphasis on those who live in close proximity to the Kimball Arts Center in Humboldt Park. The goal is to take the barriers out of self-producing by providing free space and tech equipment, stage management, marketing and PR support and a generous door split model. To learn more or submit a performance proposal, visit collaboraction.org/you-belong-here.

Come to Collaboraction’s House of Belonging in June and enjoy music, art, spoken word, youth performances, events for all ages, and the company's annual, all-day Belonging Bash. Go to collaboraction.org to get your tickets to:

¡Ah Huevo!

Bilingual Improv School Student Showcase

Wednesday, June 3, 7 p.m.

Tickets: $12.50

¡Ah Huevo! is a fully improvised comedy show that showcases the talented students of Bilingual Improv School – the only place where students can take an improv class in Spanglish! Everyone is welcome regardless of their fluency level or cultural background. Hosted by Rudy Mendoza. ¡Ah Huevo! and Bilingual Improv School are part of Collaboraction’s You Belong Here series. Learn more at linktr.ee/bilingualimprovschool.

Marcus Dunleavy: From Bach to Brazil in Preludes & Waltzes

Saturday, June 6, 3 p.m.

Tickets: $25

Sit back and enjoy this intimate evening of classical guitar, storytelling and musical reflection. Pairing works by Johann Sebastian Bach with music by Heitor Villa-Lobos, Garoto, Paulo Bellinati, Guinga, Sérgio Assad and Agustín Barrios, the program reveals unexpected resonances between distant musical worlds. Through brief poetic narration and immersive lighting design, the performance invites audiences into a deeply human listening experience where six strings become vessels for time-honored tales welcoming wandering hearts home. 

Marcus Dunleavy is a classical guitarist, performer, teacher, and interdisciplinary storyteller whose work bridges concert performance, spoken narrative, and theatrical atmosphere. Rooted in the classical tradition while deeply influenced by Brazilian music, his performances explore the emotional and cultural threads connecting Johann Sebastian Bach, Latin America, folk traditions, and contemporary storytelling. This event is presented as part of Collaboraction’s You Belong Here series.

All Skool Assembly: A Hiphop graduation of Nightchurch Emceeskool

Saturday, June 13, 6 p.m.

Tickets: $20

Emcee Skool and Elite Mind Apparel are partnering to present All Skool Assembly: A Hiphop graduation of Nightchurch Emceeskool. 

Enjoy fresh Hiphop from students graduating from Emcee Skool, established in 2018 by veteran Chicago hip-hop artist, poet, storyteller and frequent Collaboraction collaborator Teh’Ray Hale, aka Phenom. The evening will also showcase new fashions from Chicago’s Elite Mind Apparel, known for its “Buy Black” or Not at All collection. Early arrival is strongly advised. Presented as part of Collaboraction’s You Belong Here series.

Casa de Lore's: Cabachet

Sunday, June 14, 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: $25

A solo night of music, stories, and crochet, this high-energy cabaret celebrates the vibrant intersection of Cuban heritage, Miami life and Chicago culture. To experience Cabachet is to feel like you stepped into your prima’s house. Sip a cafecito, eat a pastelito and share some stories in Spanglish, while being serenaded through a dynamic song mix of boleros, salsa, and some Broadway hits. The evening is curated and performed by Lorena Estevez, a first-generation Cuban-American, multidisciplinary artist with her own fiber arts business @casa_delore.

The People’s Pot & Pantry

Monday, June 15, 22 and 29

Doors open at 4 p.m.

Free

Collaboraction looks forward to hosting The People’s Pot & Pantry at The House of Belonging on three consecutive Mondays this month. In an effort to build community ties, strengthen mutual visibility, and battle food insecurity in the performing arts, community members are invited to dine on their dark day. Enjoy a free hearty meal including locally grown produce,  browse the pantry for free items and bring your own containers to take home prepared food for the week. The People’s Pot & Pantry is facilitated by Global Hive Laboratories with Cedillo’s Fresh Produce, a family-run farm located in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood. For more, visit globalhivelabs.org. To contact the organisers, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

RADIATE

Tuesday, June 16

6 p.m. creative workshop and sign up; 7 p.m. open mic

Tickets: Free

RADIATE is Collaboraction’s monthly open mic series produced by The Luminaries, alums of Collaboraction’s The Light youth ensemble. Each event begins with a guided workshop that invites participants to explore a theme or social change concept through art and reflection. The Luminaries then open the floor for performances from local artists, students, and community members, closing the night with a showcased featured artist.

THE FREQUENCY

Curated by DJ Lady D

With special guest Dr. Nicole Rawls

Tuesday, Wed, June 17

Doors open and music at 5:30 p.m.

Program at 6:30 p.m.

Suggested ticket: $20

THE FREQUENCY is a bold new monthly live speaker series supporting new energies, emerging thought leaders, and connections. Internationally renowned DJ/producer, TEDx speaker, Recording Academy Chicago Governor, and Collaboraction Executive Director DJ Lady D is introducing THE FREQUENCY to amplify voices, cultivate dialogue, and inspire collective action around today’s most pressing cultural issues. Lady D will bring together artists, activists, civic leaders, and changemakers for immersive experiences that blend music, storytelling, and conversation.

THE FREQUENCY launches in June with special guest speaker Dr. Nicole Rawls, a Black anthropologist, astrologer and artist. Rawls will present “The Body as an Altar,” followed by conversation, collective movement and dancing with DJ Lady D.

The Belonging Bash

A benefit for The Light summer youth program and Collaboraction’s House of Belonging

Saturday, June 20, 2 p.m. to midnight

Tickets: $20-$250

*Purchase before June 10 to take advantage of a 20% early bird discount

The Belonging Bash is an all-day, indoor/outdoor fest with food, drink, DJs and live performances. It starts with an outdoor, family-friendly block party in the Kimball Arts Center parking lot, and leads to a high-energy night of live comedy, music and DJs in Collaboraction’s new House of Belonging. The stacked line-up (at press time) features the Corey Wilkes Quartet staring Meagan McNeal (Lyric Opera’s Safronia, NBC’s The Voice), DJs Larry Miller and Craig Elliott, Dance Loud, DJ Lady D, The Black Puppet Show, Bilingual Improv School, Linda Sol, Vitigrrl, Zion Ali, The Happiness Club, The Light, The Luminaries, Yuri Lane, DJ Dreea, and Maria Huertas with MLTOONS Spanish for Kids. Enjoy food, drinks and community. Support the youth. Fund the future.

Sunday Family Magic with The Magical Myster AJ

Sunday, June 21, 2:30 p.m.

Tickets: $20

Get set for a fast-paced flurry of magic, circus, gut busting laughs and absurdity, guaranteed to enchant kids aged 4-10. This enchanting, interactive, hour-long performance is the brainchild of AJ Sacco, named “Best Magician in Chicago” by the Chicago Reader three years in a row. Tada! It’s funny for adults, too. So, make it a magical family outing for Father’s Day - dads get in free!

Collaboraoke: Real Band Karaoke

Thursday, June 25

Tickets: $25, includes one free drink ticket

Sign up to compete in Round 3 of Collaboraoke. This is your rare chance to show off your karaoke skills, but this time, backed by a live band! Chicago’s own Ocean and the Waves, led by Sam Ocean, is ready to rock your vocals with a 200-song repertoire of karaoke classics. See the full song list at collaboraction.org and start practicing your favorites. Each contest is hosted by Anthony Moseley, Collaboraction’s Artistic Director and crooner extraordinaire. Three winners will be selected to compete in the Collaboraoke Championship, Thursday, July 23 at 7 p.m. Proceeds support The Light, Collaboraction's youth program.

Cómo Se Dice?

Friday, June 26

Doors at 6:30 p.m., Show at 7 p.m.

Tickets: $20

"Cómo se dice?" is a monthly bilingual short-form improv show featuring a rotating cast of professional bilingual actors and comedians. The show is a throwback to the classic TV show, "Whose line is it anyway?" but in Spanglish. Cómo Se Dice? is hosted by Rudy Mendoza and is a premium production of the Bilingual Improv School as part of Collaboraction’s You Belong Here series. 

The show is hosted by Rudy Mendoza and is a premium production of Bilingual Improv School, the only improv school where students can take an improv class in Spanish and English. Learn more atlinktr.ee/bilingualimprovschool.

Frequencyhealing.love

Sunday, June 28, 12 p.m.-2 p.m.

Tickets: $15 students, $25 general admission

Sound, human connection and community healing converge in FrequencyHealing.LOVE, a 3-dimensional vibracoustic and digital sound bath. Creating a safe space where people can celebrate their growth and healing, these gatherings become more than events — they become emotionally restorative environments, holding containers for art, mindfulness, movement, conversation, and vulnerability to coexist harmoniously. More at deepcuddlefrequency.com.

Note: Free and nearby street parking is available at Collaboraction’s new House of Belonging in the Kimball Arts Center, 1757 N. Kimball Ave. in Chicago’s Humboldt Park community. For CTA riders, the 82 Kimball-Homan bus stops right in front of Kimball Arts Center. Collaboraction is also a short walk from the Kimball stop on the 72 North and 73 Armitage bus lines. For bikers and pedestrians, The 606’s Kimball trailhead leads directly to the Kimball Arts Center.

Produced in partnership with JunkHeart, The Metal Shop Performance Lab is proud to announce the cast and creative team for Anatomy of a Suicide, August 12 - 30, at Redtwist Theatre, 1044 W Bryn Mawr Ave, Chicago, written by Alice Birch and directed by Alex Mallory. Previews are Wednesday, Aug. 12 and Thursday, Aug. 13 at 7:30 p.m. The regular performance schedule is Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 - $35 and may be purchased starting June 1 by visiting TheMetalShop.org.

Anatomy of a Suicide follows three generations of women; a mother, a daughter and a granddaughter, whose individual stories are being told simultaneously. For each, the pain and chaos of the women who came before them force them to question whether they will be able to escape this deeply rooted legacy and instead make their own. Alice Birch's Susan Smith Blackburn Prize-winning play is an intimate exploration of inter-generational trauma, told across three interlinking narratives.

The cast of Anatomy of a Suicide features Tatiana Pavela (she/her, Carol); Taigé Lauren (she/her, Anna); Isabel Lee Roden (they/them, Bonnie); Josh Razavi (he/him, John); Raúl Alonso (he/him, Jamie); Allyce C. Torres (she/her, Jo/Laura/Lola/Woman); Jocelyn Maher (she/her, Emma/Karen/Esther/May/Diane); Laila Malak (she/her, Young Daisy/Young Anna/Child); Wisterman (they/them, Dan/Dave/Nurse/Felix/Luke); Faiz Siddique (he/him, Toby/Tim/Mark); Ellen Campbell (she/her, u/s Carol); Taylor McWilliams-Woods (she/her, u/s Anna); Ashley Leake (she/her, u/s Bonnie); Zak Wilson (he/him, u/s John); DeVaughn Loman (he/him, u/s Jamie); Liliana Mastroianni (she/her, u/s Jo/Laura/Lola/Woman); Lori Navarrete (she/her/ella, u/s Emma/Karen/Esther/May/Diane); Amanda Elena de la Fuente (she/ella, u/s Young Daisy/Young Anna/Child); Derek Preston Ray (he/him, u/s Dan/Dave/Nurse/Felix/Luke) and Darius Stubbs (he/him, u/s Toby/Tim/Mark).

The creative team includes Alex Mallory (she/her, director); Marlee Feacher (she/her, assistant director); Sofie Schmeltzer (they/them, stage manager); Annabelle Lamb (she/her, assistant stage manager); AJ Noon (they/them, rehearsal assistant stage manager); Dusty Brown (they/them, production manager); Daphne Agosin (she/her, scenic and lighting designer); Naomi Arroyo (she/her, costume designer); Gina Montalvo (she/they, sound designer); Lolo Ramos (she/her, props designer) and Toranika Washington (she/her, intimacy director).

Anatomy of a Suicide is presented by special arrangement with Concord Theatricals Corp. www.ConcordTheatricals.com.

Please note: Anatomy of a Suicide contains themes of suicide, substance abuse, and depression. Age recommendation 14+.

If you or a loved one are experiencing a mental health or substance abuse crisis, 988 offers 24/7 judgment-free support for mental health, substance use, and more. Text, call, or chat 988. Information on local resources will be provided online, in show program material, and at the theater.

ABOUT ALICE BIRCH, playwright

Alice Birch is a British playwright and screenwriter. Birch has written several plays, including Revolt. She Said. Revolt Again. for which she was awarded the George Devine Award for Most Promising New Playwright and Anatomy of a Suicide for which she won the Susan Smith Blackburn Prize. Birch was also the screenwriter for the film Lady Macbeth and has written for television shows such as "Succession," "Normal People" and "Dead Ringers."

ABOUT ALEX MALLORY, director

Alex Mallory is a director, educator, producer, arts consultant, director of The Metal Shop Performance Lab and one half of JunkHeart with Tatiana Pavela. She recently directed the world premiere of Sadieh Rifai's The Cave for A Red Orchid Theatre and a touring, community-engaged production of My Name is Rachel Corrie with The Metal Shop. Her award-winning production of Takeo Rivera's choreopoem Goliath toured over seven years through New York and California. Alex holds an MFA in Directing from Northwestern University and a BA from Stanford University where she received the Louis Sudler Prize in Creative Arts and the Sherifa Omade Edoga Prize for work involving social issues. She is a proud member of SDC, the national labor union representing professional stage directors and choreographers.

ABOUT THE METAL SHOP PERFORMANCE LAB

The Metal Shop Performance Lab creates theatrical events that build community through authentic exchange between artists and audiences. 

ABOUT JUNKHEART

JunkHeart is a new artistic collaboration between Alex Mallory and Tatiana Pavela. JunkHeart seeks to create bigger worlds for people to witness, so they have bigger worlds to exist within. Junk because it describes how we often make theatre: recorded on voice memos, written on scraps of paper, costumed from the back of our closets and thrift store finds. We collect salvaged wood from the landlord's garage, borrow furniture from our own living rooms, and assemble a motley crew of people to come together because they can't envision doing anything else. Heart because art should fracture something open to give people more space. We want our projects  to expand audiences' ideas of humanity and leave them feeling more, connecting more, envisioning more possibilities. Can your heart be split open and be put back together slightly changed, with light pouring through the cracks?

Produced in partnership with JunkHeart, The Metal Shop Performance Lab is proud to announce the cast and creative team for Anatomy of a Suicide, August 12 - 30, at Redtwist Theatre, 1044 W Bryn Mawr Ave, Chicago, written by Alice Birch and directed by Alex Mallory. Previews are Wednesday, Aug. 12 and Thursday, Aug. 13 at 7:30 p.m. The regular performance schedule is Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Tickets are $20 - $35 and may be purchased starting June 1 by visiting TheMetalShop.org.

Paramount Theatre is proud to host the world’s most influential name in comedy, The Second City, back for for a three-week limited engagement with The Second City presents Laughing For All The Wrong Reasons at Paramount’s intimate Copley Theatre, 8 E. Galena Blvd. in downtown Aurora, May 28-June 20.

Celebrating its 67th anniversary in 2026, Second City’s Laughing For All The Wrong Reasons features classic sketch comedy and songs from the company's rich history, fresh new favorites, and the signature brand of irreverent improv that The Second City is famous for. With alumni such as Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert, Keegan-Michael Key and Tim Robinson, The Second City has an unmatched track record of launching the careers of comedy superstars.

The cast that’ll have you laughing for all the wrong reasons features Second City’s “stars of tomorrow,” the current Second City Touring Company, featuring Emily Anderson, Avery Ford, Dani James, Max Lazerine, Dave Lyzenga, Julia Morales, and Cassidy Russell. Musical director is Sam Scheidler. Stage manager is Amanda Leo.

Performances are Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m., and Saturdays at 2:30 and 8 p.m. in Paramount’s Copley Theatre, 8 E. Galena Blvd. in downtown Aurora. Tickets are $46. For tickets, visit ParamountAurora.com, call (630) 896-6666, or stop by the Paramount box office Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., or until show time on show days. For group discounts, contact Melissa Striedl, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (630) 723-2461. *Prices are for in-person purchases. Additional fees apply for phone and online orders.

Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, located in the heart of downtown Arlington Heights, 111 W. Campbell St., is proud to announce the cast and creative team for The Wizard of Oz, July 8 - August 9. The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum with music and lyrics by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg. Background music by Herbert Stothart. Dance and vocal arrangements by Peter Howard. Orchestration by Larry Wilcox. Adapted by John Kane for the Royal Shakespeare Company. Based upon the classic motion picture owned by Turner Entertainment Co. and distributed in all media by Warner Bros. Directed and choreographed by Tor Campbell and music directed by Sharon Mason. Previews are Wednesday, July 8 through Friday, July 10 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, July 11 at 2 p.m. The regular performance schedule is Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 2 and 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m., with added matinee performances on Thursday, July 16 and Thursday, July 30 at 2 p.m. The performance on Saturday, July 18 at 2 p.m. will be closed captioned and the performance on Thursday, July 23 at 7:30 p.m. will be ASL interpreted. There will also be a sensory-friendly performance on Saturday, August 8 at 2 p.m. Tickets are now on sale from $25 to $49 at MetropolisArts.com or by calling the box office at 847.577.2121.

Audiences are invited to join The Cowardly Lion, Scarecrow, Tin Man, Dorothy... and Toto, too, as they follow the yellow brick road in search of their heart's desires. For the first time on Metropolis' Main Stage, L. Frank Baum's tale comes to life in this extraordinary story of heart, friendship, courage and belonging. This adaptation contains all of the Oscar-winning songs from the movie, including "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" and "We're Off To See The Wizard," all while reminding audiences that there is no place like home.

In addition to the company of professional artists, summer class students from the Metropolis School of the Performing Arts, will be a part of the Munchinkin troupe. Metropolis School of Performing Arts was awarded the Illinois Theatre Association's 2025 Award of Excellence in Creative Drama/Theatre for Young Audiences. The school was also the recipient of the 2025 Nonprofit of the Year Award from the Arlington Heights Chamber of Commerce.

The cast of The Wizard of Oz includes Nora Wragg (Dorothy Gale); David Omari (Tin Man/Hickory); Nolan Robinson (Scarecrow/Hunk); Jake Elkins (Lion/Zeke); Genevieve Thiers (Gulch/Wicked Witch); Gabe Fries (Wizard/Prof Marvel); Danielle Spence (Glinda/Aunt Em); Joe Giovannetti (Uncle Henry/Guard); Rachel Arianna (ensemble, U/S Gulch/Wicked Witch); Andrew John Baker (ensemble, U/S Lion/Zeke); Corey Barlow (ensemble, U/S Scarecrow/Hunk); Kiana Beverly (ensemble); Ben Harmon (ensemble, U/S Wizard/Prof Marvel); Beck Hokanson (ensemble, U/S Uncle Henry/Guard); Emmett Knee (ensemble, U/S Tin Man/Hickory); Rebecca Mactaggart (ensemble, dance captain, U/S Glinda/Aunt Em); Lily Ramras (ensemble, U/S Dorothy); Gracie Scullion (ensemble); Angelena Browne (swing); Edward Nadenichek (swing) and Cali Spence (Toto).

The Wizard of Oz's creative team is Tor Campbell (director and choreographer); Sharon Mason (music director); Lena Romano (assistant director); Zak Jacobs (assistant choreographer); Matt Carney (casting director); Abby Truett (stage manager); Mack Finklea (assistant stage manager); Alyssa Mohn (scenic designer); Sierra Walker (lighting designer); Forrest Gregor (sound designer); David Moreland (technical director); Theresa Ham (costume designer); TBD (wig, hair and makeup designer); Kaitlyn Hettinger (props designer) and Tony Churchill (projections designer).

ABOUT TOR CAMBELL, DIRECTOR and CHOREOGRAPHER

Tor Cambell is an award-winning director, choreographer, educator and creative producer whose work centers storytelling, humanity and transformational theatrical experiences. A native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Cambell has spent nearly two decades directing, choreographing and teaching across the country and internationally, developing a reputation for emotionally rich, visually dynamic work that bridges spectacle with heart.

Cambell recently joined Interlochen Center for the Arts as the new program director of Musical Theatre while continuing his work as a freelance director and choreographer throughout the country. Recent directing and choreography credits include Covenant and A Christmas Carol at Goodman Theatre, Cabaret at Clarence Brown Theatre, The Full Monty, Hairspray, Seussical, The Prom and Sweat. He previously served as the Northwestern Directing Fellow at Goodman Theatre in Chicago and has worked professionally with organizations including Paramount Theatre, Northlight Theatre, Northwestern University. Lake Forest College, University of California Irvine and Juilliard.

ABOUT SHARON MASON, MUSIC DIRECTOR

Sharon Mason is a Chicago-based music director, educator, administrator and arts leader with more than 45 musical productions to her credit across community, educational, and professional theatre settings. Known for her collaborative leadership style and commitment to artistic excellence, Mason has served as music director for productions including Gypsy, The Addams Family, Godspell 2012, Guys and Dolls, Legally Blonde, Matilda, Footloose, The Producers, Something Rotten, Sister Act, Little Women and Seussical. Her work spans organizations including the Beverly Theatre Guild, Palos Village Players, Lake Forest Academy and other regional theatre companies. She has been described as a vital part of teams producing high-quality local musical theater. 

ABOUT METROPOLIS PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE
Metropolis Performing Arts Centre is a vibrant cultural hub that enriches the community through inspiring live performances, creative arts education and impactful partnerships. It fosters artistic excellence, cultivates multi-generational connections and offers inclusive experiences that engage and uplift all community members. Located in the heart of downtown Arlington Heights, Metropolis is not just a theatre, it is the cultural pulse of the area, surrounded by premier shopping, dining and nightlife. Metropolis offers a dynamic year-round season of professional theatre, comedy, concerts and cabaret performances along with engaging arts education for ages 3 to 85 years old. Serving more than 65,000 patrons annually from across Chicagoland and beyond, Metropolis plays a pivotal role in the community. It provides arts education programs that support thousands of aspiring young artists, as well as community engagement initiatives like the Third Act Players (musical theatre for thespians over 50), Crescendo Chorus (for singers over 55), Flourish in the Footlights (for young artists with disabilities) and Clearbrook on Cue (for artists with disabilities). Metropolis is proud to partner with local organizations such as Endeavor Health, Arlington Heights Senior Center and Clearbrook. Scholarships are available for students at the School of the Performing Arts to ensure access to the arts for all.

Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, located in the heart of downtown Arlington Heights, 111 W. Campbell St., is proud to announce the cast and creative team for The Wizard of Oz, July 8 - August 9. The Wizard of Oz is adapted by John Kane, music by Harold Arlen, lyrics by E.Y. Harburg and directed and choreographed by Tor Campbell and music directed by Sharon Mason Previews are Wednesday, July 8 through Friday, July 10 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, July 11 at 2 p.m. The regular performance schedule is Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 2 and 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m., with added matinee performances on Thursday, July 16 and Thursday, July 30 at 2 p.m. The performance on Saturday, July 18 at 2 p.m. will be closed captioned and the performance on Thursday, July 23 at 7:30 p.m. will be ASL interpreted. There will also be a sensory-friendly performance on Saturday, August 8 at 2 p.m. Tickets are now on sale from $25 to $49 at MetropolisArts.com or by calling the box office at 847.577.2121.