Chicago Theater Highlights and Season Announcements

Chicago Theater Artists Spark New Off-Broadway Play

Joshua Altman and other Chicago theater talents are pivotal to “To Have and To Hold.” This new off-Broadway play by Laura Lapidus commemorates Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew” with a fresh perspective on the sisterly dynamics between Kate and Bianca. Joining the cast is Yuriy Sardarov, known from “Chicago Fire.” The play opens on August 23 at Chashama’s 154 Theater, New York.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater Celebrates 40 Years

Forty years after Barbara Gaines established the Shakespeare Repertory of Chicago, now Chicago Shakespeare Theater, it’s celebrating its history with a free, family-friendly open house on Navy Pier. Activities feature backstage tours, theatrical design displays, reading sessions with the artistic director, and a silent auction with items such as signed books by Ian McKellen. Festivities begin at 5 p.m. on August 3.

The Umbilical Brothers Launch U.S. Tour in Chicago

The Umbilical Brothers, stars of “The Upside Down Show,” are set to bring their comedy to the Studebaker Theater on September 19, marking the commencement of their U.S. tour. Known for their physical comedy aimed at all ages, more information is available at the Fine Arts Building’s website.

A Red Orchid Theater Announces 2026-27 Season

A Red Orchid Theater reveals its 34th season titled “World on Fire.” It features Will Arbery’s “Heroes of the Fourth Turning.” Keiko Green’s dark comedy “You Are Cordially Invited to the End of the World!” is scheduled for winter 2027. Finally, a world premiere adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s “Rosmersholm” concludes the season.

Rivendell Theatre’s World Premiere Cast of “Bonnie’s Last Flight”

Rivendell Theatre will present Eliza Bent’s “Bonnie’s Last Flight” this fall, featuring Rebecca Spence, Eric Slater, Jessica Ervin, Glenn Obrero, and Paul Oakley Stovall.

Upcoming Theater Events Not to Be Missed

The Goodman’s remarkable “Octet” ends soon. “Theater of the Mind” by David Byrne and Mala Gaonka runs at the Reid Murdoch Building. Other recommended shows include “Pandemonium, Please Hold” at Second City and “Leopoldstadt” at Writers Theatre through August 16.