As Chicago gears up for Pride Month, the city’s vibrant theater scene is set to celebrate, commemorate, and honor the LGBTQ+ community through an array of performances. The local arts landscape thrives despite restrictions in other parts of the country, particularly following political maneuvers that threaten artistic expression.
Pride in Chicago means an eclectic mix of parties, parades, and performances, often highlighting the depth and richness of LGBTQ+ narratives across various genres and styles.
One notable event is “Honeypot: Black Southern Women Who Love Women,” currently running through June 1 at Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre in Evanston. This co-production with Northwestern University Theatre Department stands as a poignant exploration of identity and love, adapted from E. Patrick Johnson’s book by artistic director Tim Rhoze and co-adapter D. Soyini Maadison. As a reminder of ongoing dialogues surrounding race and sexuality, Fleetwood-Jourdain plans to stage a new piece inspired by the powerful 1971 conversation between James Baldwin and Nikki Giovanni in November.
Following closely, “Scandalous Boy” will be performed at Open Space Arts through June 8, showcasing the tumultuous love story between Antinous and Emperor Hadrian, which played out against the grandeur and politics of the Roman Empire. Directed by Benjamin Mills, this American premiere by Australian playwright David Atfield delves deep into themes of love, identity, and the consequences of ambition.
On June 5, previews for “You Will Get Sick” will launch at Steppenwolf Theatre Company, running until July 13. This Chicago premiere involves a young gay man navigating a life-threatening disease, assisted by an older woman, with a surreal touch and elements of comedy sprinkled throughout the narrative. The involvement of Steppenwolf Ensemble members like Amy Morton adds a layer of depth to this compelling story from Noah Diaz.
As the month continues, Invictus Theatre will present “Angels in America, Parts I & II,” starting previews on June 13 and running until September 7. This acclaimed work by Tony Kushner explores life during the AIDS epidemic and tackles pressing themes related to identity, politics, and society’s treatment of marginalized communities. The fact that historical characters like Roy Cohn add a real-world tie to the story emphasizes its relevance even today.
The Goodman Theatre is set to attract audiences with a new staging of “The Color Purple,” beginning previews on June 21 and running until July 25. Directed by Lili-Anne Brown, this Tony Award-winning musical based on Alice Walker’s renowned novel encapsulates themes of resilience, love, and self-discovery, ensuring a heartfelt viewing experience for all.
In addition to LGBTQ-centered productions, theater lovers can enjoy an array of performances that might lean toward camp or musical nostalgia. Already running is “Titanique” at Porchlight Theatre, which interprets the music of Celine Dion through a humorous lens of the Titanic mythos until July 13. Also available is “Diana the Musical” at Theo Cabaret Theatre, portraying the life of Princess Diana and her unique impact on the Royal family through song.
Opening soon, audiences can expect “The Marvelous Wonderettes” at Oil Lamp Theater, beginning June 6. This delightful femme quartet takes a nostalgic trip down memory lane with classic hits from the ’50s and ’60s. Another option is “Always Something There . . .” premiering on June 8 at Marriott Theatre, a jukebox-style production celebrating ’80s teen films with songs from iconic artists like Madonna and Culture Club.
Finally, “Forever Plaid,” presented by MadKap Productions at Skokie Theatre from June 20-29, offers a lighthearted take on traditional harmony and nostalgia, ensuring a good dose of laughter and joy.
Jonathan Abarbanel, a member of the American Theatre Critics Association and former theater editor for Windy City Times, encourages all to explore the diverse theatrical offerings available this Pride Month. Each production serves as a testament to the resilience and creativity of the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting both historical struggles and contemporary narratives.
In Chicago, Pride Month becomes a rich tapestry woven together by art, love, and community spirit, promising to uplift and inspire workers and audiences alike.
image source from：https://windycitytimes.com/2025/05/23/theater-pride-month-theater-in-chicago-has-something-for-everyone/
