6 Popular Shows to See in Chicago

Chicago is known for its fantastic theater and arts scene, so if you’re planning an upcoming trip to the city, then you probably have included attending a show on your list of things to do. The city is filled with many different types of performances, including top Broadway musicals and plays. Since it might be hard to decide which shows in Chicago to see when you visit, here’s a list of five popular shows that you won’t want to miss. 

Disney’s Frozen 

Disney’s animated movie Frozen is now a Broadway musical here in Chicago. The adapted contemporary fairy tale has all of the songs from the original movie including the famous “Let It Go.” The musical includes special effects and a human version of Olaf the snowman and Sven the reindeer. This musical will be playing at the Cadillac Palace Theater until January 22nd.

Aziz Ansari: Last Minute Tour

Award-winning actor, director, writer, and comedian Aziz Ansari stars in the Last Minute Tour. He co-created, writes, directs, and stars in the Netflix original series Master of None for which he has won two Emmys for Outstanding Comedy Writing, a Golden Globe for Best Actor, as well as Emmy and DGA Award nominations for his directing. In 2019, he released his 5th standup for Netflix entitled Right Now to critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination. He is also known for co-starring in NBC’s Parks and Recreation and for being one of the few headlining comedians ever to sell out Madison Square Garden. The Last Minute Tour will be showing at The Chicago Theatre on January 20th. 

Blue Man Group

At Blue Man Group Chicago, experience brand new moments featuring new instruments, technologies, and audience interactions. You’ll rock, laugh, party and have a deeper connection with the Blue Men than ever before. The Blue Man Group performs at Briar Street Theater through April 3rd.

The Play That Goes Wrong

The Play That Goes Wrong is a unique comedy that The New York Times called “a gust-busting hit.” This classic murder mystery is chock-full of mishaps and mania, delivering an award-winning comedy. The Play That Goes Wrong includes an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can’t play dead, and actors who trip over everything—including their lines. This is showing at Broadway Playhouse until January 30th.

Oklahoma!

Oklahoma!, originally a musical from 1943, is as you’ve never seen or heard it before. The musical has been reimagined for the 21st century and is the Tony Award Winner for Best Revival of a Musical. Experience the musical at the CIBC Theatre until January 23rd.

Serenity: Winter Flower Show

Unlike other shows on this list, this one is filled with greenery. Located at the Garfield Park Conservatory, the Serenity: Winter Flower Show allows people to take a calming walk through hyacinth, zinnias, salvias, cosmos, and other flowering blooms. Like the rest of the Conservatory, access to the show is free—just be sure to make an online reservation ahead of your visit. The show goes until January 9th.

Planning your trip

Whether you choose to visit Chicago now or in the future, you’ll have a unique and thrilling experience, especially if you choose to see one of these five popular shows. After you’ve selected which show to see, you’ll need to decide where you’ll stay on your trip. Consider booking a room in a boutique hotel like Hotel EMC2, located in the heart of the city in Streeterville. Now you’re ready for your upcoming trip to Chicago filled with showstopping plays and musicals and spectacular sights. 

Need a place to stay when visiting Chicago? Book your reservation here.