Why Chicago’s Year of Theater is Your 2019 Destination

If there’s any takeaway from Rahm Emanuel’s declaration that Chicago is 2019’s ultimate destination for theater, it’s this—it’s time to start browsing what’s coming in the next few months and marking down performances to see in Chicago. (And there’s no reason not to get a jump-start now and lock in some current shows!)

This is a really exciting time for the arts in Chicago, putting it on the same playing field as other renowned theatrical cities, like New York and London. (And FYI, Chicago is also known as the best city in the world, anyway.)

Here are a few places to keep on your list of hotspots for 2019, which all offer diverse performances and genres to fit every type of theatrical junkie around.

Broadway in Chicago

The wonderful, inspiring Broadway might be more closely associated with New York City, but it’s time for Chicago’s Broadway to really shine. There are several musicals to choose from right now, like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Tootsie, and in November, like the renowned Book of Mormon.

Yet starting in 2019, the list of musical sensations featuring Tony Award winners will only improve—inviting Anastasia, Kinky Boots, Dear Evan Hansen, and The Band’s Visit, among others.

And don’t forget Christmas! The holiday season is approaching, and the theater is a perfect place to celebrate. Classics like A Christmas Carol, The Nutcracker by Joffrey Ballet, and some fun performances, like How the Grinch Stole Christmas, can all be found at theaters downtown. A show is a perfect holiday treat!

Shakespeare in the Park

Millennium Park is known for having performances year-round, from dance and theater to live music across a variety of genres. However, in 2019, Shakespeare in the Park will take place, putting on performances like A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Hamlet, and Short Shakespeare! Macbeth. It’s a great way to honor some of Shakespeare’s greatest works and see some inspiring local talent.

Any Local Theater

The best part about Chicago’s rich theater scene? There are so many local theaters to go to right in the heart of downtown and across the city in various neighborhoods.

At The Goodman Theatre, you can look forward to The Music Man in 2019, and at SteppenWolf, a not-for-profit organization that draws a multi-generational and diverse audience, you can take in La Ruta, Familiar, and WIG OUT!, among others.

There’s also Court Theater on the South Side, and Briar Street Theater, on the North Side, the latter of which is home to the beloved Blue Man Group.

Second City

It’s not just Shakespeare and musicals that Chicago does so well—but also they are known for comedy. Second City is the perfect place to go to watch local Chicago comedic talent act out on stage and bring you a few hearty rounds of laughter. Be sure to check the event page for performances throughout the year, and if you’re feeling up to it, you can even sign up for a class to try a little improv yourself!

Need a place to stay taking in a show? Book your reservation now.