Chicago is buzzing this summer with a variety of performances and festivals that offer something for everyone, from thought-provoking dramas to lively music events and family-friendly activities.
The City Lit Theater is set to present Stephen Adly Guirgis’ intense drama “Jesus Hopped the A Train,” featuring a poignant narrative centered around a young Latino charged with murder and his experiences in the notorious Rikers Island prison. Directed by Esteban Andres Cruz, this production runs from July 25 to September 7 at 1020 W. Bryn Mawr. Tickets are priced at $38 and can be purchased at citylit.org.
For those craving a musical experience, Otherworld Theatre Company will showcase its hit original musical, “Twihard! A Twilight Musical Parody.” This comedic reinterpretation of Stephenie Meyer’s “Twilight” saga is sure to entertain audiences with its humor and catchy tunes. Written and directed by Tiffany Keane Schaefer, this show will take the stage from July 25 to August 31 at the Apollo Theater located at 2550 N. Lincoln. Tickets start at $42 and are available at twihardthemusical.com.
Meanwhile, Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre will stage “Pass Over,” a drama by Antoinette Chinonye Nwandu that delves into the lives of two young men pursuing their version of a “promised land,” disrupted by a stranger’s arrival. Tim Rhoze will direct this impactful play, running from July 26 through August 10 at Noyes Cultural Arts Center, 927 Noyes, Evanston, with tickets available for $32 at fjtheatre.com.
In the realm of improv, renowned performers TJ and Dave, known for their extraordinary skills, return to Goodman Theatre for three nights of entertainment. The duo has earned accolades as “Zen masters of their art,” and they will be joined by musical guest Ike Reilly. Performances are scheduled for July 24-26 at the Goodman Theatre, located at 170 N. Dearborn, with ticket prices ranging from $28 to $53. Visit goodmantheatre.org for more information.
For comedy enthusiasts, the iO Festival is a must-attend event. This four-day festival features an extensive lineup of performers, including alumni such as Chris Kattan, Matt Walsh, and Susan Messing, alongside popular improv shows and numerous troupes and podcasts. The festival will take place from July 24 to 27 at iO Theater, located at 1502 N. Kingsbury, with tickets starting at $35 available at ioimprov.com/io-fest/.
Those interested in dance will not want to miss The Seldoms’ acclaimed piece, “Superbloom,” making its debut in the North Shore at the Chicago Botanic Garden. This multimedia performance, exploring themes of beauty and the resilience of nature, includes dance, music, and stunning visuals. Performances are set for July 25-27 at the Chicago Botanic Garden, located at 1000 Lake Cook, Glencoe, with ticket prices ranging from $10 to $29. Tickets can be purchased at theseldoms.org.
Music lovers can enjoy the Out of Space summer music festival, which features headliners such as Sylvan Esso and Shakey Graves, amongst others, taking place from July 24 to 27 at Illinois Science & Technology Park, North Field, Skokie. Tickets start at $49.50 and details are available at outofspaceconcerts.com.
Additionally, the Grant Park Orchestra and Chorus will perform beloved classics by Rodgers and Hammerstein on July 25 and 26 at Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park. This event includes Broadway guest performers and features music from iconic productions like “The Sound of Music” and “Oklahoma,” with free admission to all attendees. Visit gpmf.org for more information.
AJR, the indie pop trio known for their catchy hits, will also be performing on July 27 at Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre in Tinley Park, where fans can expect to hear new music from their upcoming album. Tickets start at $30 and can be purchased via ticketmaster.com.
Irish singer-songwriter Hozier will bring his unique blend of folk and blues to the same venue for two nights on July 24 and 25, showcasing tracks from his latest album, “Unreal Unearth.” Tickets for these performances are available for $65 and can also be found on ticketmaster.com.
Art enthusiasts can visit the Art Institute of Chicago to experience “Pixy Liao: Relationship Material,” a groundbreaking exhibit featuring approximately 45 works by the multidisciplinary artist, including sculptures, music videos, and photography. This exhibition runs from July 26 to December 8 and admission fees range from $14 to $32. More information can be found at artic.edu.
Families can enjoy outdoor activities with the Cabinet of Curiosity’s “Kazoozapalooza Pedal Powered Program” on July 26 at Boler Park, which includes a free kazoo for every attendee. Additional performances are scheduled for August 9 and September 20 at various locations, and admission is free to all.
Additionally, journalist Cheryl Corley and singer-songwriter Lucy Smith will honor the legacy of Gwendolyn Brooks and Curtis Mayfield with performances throughout the summer, starting on July 26 in Sherman Park. The events are free to attend and more details can be found on nightoutintheparks.com.
Festival-goers can look forward to the Chinatown Summer Fair, celebrating Chinese culture with food, performances, and activities scheduled for July 26-27. Admission is free and the festivities will take place from noon to 10 p.m. on July 26 and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on July 27 along Wentworth.
Another exciting event, the Wicker Park Fest, will run from July 25 to 27 and feature a mix of music, food, art, and activities for children, with a suggested donation of $10. This vibrant celebration will occur on Milwaukee from North to Ashland.
Chicago’s cultural scene this summer is packed with opportunities for entertainment, exploration, and community celebration, ensuring everyone can find joy and inspiration in the warmth of the season.
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