When it comes to theatre, Chicago is one of the cities in the US where there are a great number of selections to choose from. Aside from the very popular Chicago Theatre, one of these is the LaSalle Bank Theatre, which was the first theatre in Chicago that was known to a million-dollar-plus venue. Known as the Majestic Theatre in the year 1906, the building for this Chicago theatre was also the tallest in the city during this time.
Known as the original hotspot for vaudeville, the LaSalle Bank Theatre was later known to host the performances of such personalities as Lily Langtry and illusionist Harry Houdini. After its closure at the time of the Great Depression, this Chicago theatre was opened up again in the year 1945. This was when shows like South Pacific, Carousel and Guys and Dolls were favorites. The latest productions that were highlighted in this theatre in Chicago are the Sweet Smell of Success, which garnered a Tony Award, the Rent’s premiere in Chicago, Monty Python’s Spalamot and Billy Joel and Twyla Tharp’s Movin’ Out’s world premieres.
Another known theatre in Chicago is the Steppenwolf Theatre Company, which is an international institution of performing arts that is based in the city. This Chicago venue is known for its commitment to artistic risks and collaboration of ensembles. As such, Steppenwolf is regarded as the company that has given the acting and performance landscape a new definition and this is through producing among the most talented artists in America.
The Chicago Children’s Theatre is also one Chicago venue that has gained quite an acclaim over the years because of its efforts on community enrichment done through significant and often diverse theatrical productions. Another venue in Chicago, that also bears mentioning, is the Goodman Theatre which was founded in the year 1925. Having been around in the city for more than 80 years, this theater is known for presenting the works of outstanding artists from the international, national and local scenes.
Another popular theatre in Chicago is the Music Box Theatre. This venue has been always been the premiere venue in the city when it comes to the showing of foreign and independent films. Another Chicago venue that should not be missed is the Chicago Opera Theater, which has been around in the city since 1974. Known for its significance in the operatic scene of the city, the venue has not only reached thousands of audiences through its stage performances but also through its education and outreach programs for the young artists.
So, with the wealth of information that you now have when it comes to the good venues in Chicago, you will already have an idea which among them to visit first. However, if you have the time and the money to spare, it would be best if you enjoy a performance out of each mentioned.