Broadway plays are one of the best elements of big cities. From New York to San Francisco to Chicago, these are the peak of theater experiences. World-class actors are making the journey to Chicago this year for a variety of plays, making a perfect addition to any Chicago trip, or serving as a great crowning purpose for your trip. Whether or not you’re a musical fan, Broadway shows are in a league of their own and are worth the time to experience a once-in-a-lifetime performance. We’ve gathered some of the biggest and best shows making a stop in the Windy City this year for your enjoyment.

My Fair Lady

Earning the title of “The Most Perfect Musical of All Time”, My Fair Lady follows a young woman’s journey to becoming a proper lady via the instruction of a linguistics professor. For a few select days in March, you can grab a rare seat at this classic play. The comedy-drama made its first appearance in 1964 and is based on a 1913 stage play called Pygmalion, making it a timeless hit. While the movie is available to watch, nothing can compare to the live music and acting of world-class performers on one of the best stages in the world.

Mamma Mia

ABBA fans are no doubt familiar with the Mamma Mia movie franchise, featuring Meryl Streep and Amanda Seyfried, but the play it’s based on is its own unique experience. As Sophie hatches a scheme to discover who her father is during the final days of her wedding preparation, her mother relives the past and struggles to keep their Greek bed and breakfast afloat. The musical was written around the most popular ABBA songs and has fans tapping their toes and singing along as they enjoy the charming storyline and become captivated by the emotions of the coming-of-age story unfolding in real-time. In April and May, Chicago is proud to host this iconic performance for a short time, perfect for your date night out.

Death Becomes Her

Comedy meets drama in this live adaptation of the 1992 film which also stars Meryl Streep. With a potion of youth creating mischief in the love lives of the main characters, there are unpredictable turns and laughs at each act of the play. With a heart-warming message underlying the humor, you’ll leave the theater this April through June with a smile on your face. This play is perfect for a girls’ night out as you celebrate life and all that it has to offer.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Witches, Wizards, and Muggles alike have been charmed by the magical world of Harry Potter ever since the first book was introduced in 1997. Spreading from pages of a book to hours on the silver screen, and finally to Broadway plays, the interweaving stories of each character have kept audiences’ unwavering attention. This latest addition to the collection tells a story about Harry’s son, Albus, and his adventures at Hogwarts featuring familiar time-turner shenanigans. The whole family can dust off their wands and gather for a night of live-action spells and potions at the Nederlander Theatre in Chicago starting this September.

SIX

This British play made its way to America in 2019 and has continued to make a splash ever since. While the contemporary musical is reminiscent of a pop concert, the historical premise of the play brings a Hamilton-like element to the stage. The actors portray the wives of King Henry VIII singing catchy songs about their lives. Playing this summer in Chicago, Broadway fans can’t miss this new shining star in the line-up.

Broadway in the Theatre District

Chicago hosts Broadway shows on 5 different stages, each one magnificent and awaiting your visit. These shows make for a great time no matter if it’s your first time or your tenth. No trip to Chicago is complete without finding the right show to play as the soundtrack to your city experience.

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