PI ONLINE:
4-25-08

Openings

Equity

American Theater Company

Speech and Debate—Three misfits team up to expose their teacher’s online secrets while forming their high school’s first Speech and Debate club. Opens 4/28 and runs through 5/11 (previews 4/24 - 4/27) at American Theater Company, 1909 W. Byron. Thurs-Fri 8pm, Sat 4 & 8pm, Sun 3pm. 773/929-1031. $30-35. www.atcweb.org

Cast: Jared McGuire, Patrick Andrews, Sadieh Rifai, Cheryl Graeff. Crew: PJ Paparelli, director; Keith Pitts, set design; Myron Elliott, costume design; Charles Cooper, light design; Lindsay Jones & Scotty Iseri, sound design; Chelsea Meyers, properties design; Dana Nestrick, stage manager.

Broadway In Chicago

Sweeney Todd—Sweeney Todd is based on the 19th century legend of a London barber driven to a life of crime after a malevolent judge takes his wife and child from him. Opens 4/23 and runs through 5/4 at Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph. Tues-Thurs 7:30pm, Fri 8pm, Sat 2 & 8pm, Sun 2pm, additional performance 4/30 2:30pm & 5/4 7:30pm. 312/902-1400. $25-75. www.broadwayinchicago.com

Cast: Judy Kaye, David Hess, Diana DiMarzio, Benjamin Eakeley, Benjamin Magnuson, Steve McIntyre, Lauren Molina, Elisa Winter, Jessica Wright, Edmund Bagnell, Keith Buterbaugh, Katrina Yaukey, Edwin Cahill, David Garry. Crew: John Doyle, director & set design; Richard Jones, light design; Dan Moses Schreier, sound design.

Buffalo Theatre Ensemble

Stones in his Pockets—The story of a Hollywood film being shot in rural Ireland, with locals Charlie and Jake hired as extras. The two rub shoulders with Hollywood bigwigs and get a taste of the glitz and glamour - until they are brought back to reality. Opens 5/2 and runs through 5/25 (previews 5/1) at Buffalo Theatre Ensemble, Fawell and Park Blvds, Glen Ellyn. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 2pm. 630/942-4000. $27-30. www.atthemac.org

Cast: William “Sandy” Smillie, Henry Odum. Crew: Bryan Burke, director.

Chicago Dramatists

10 Virgins—Ten girls live alone in Wabansia swamp, depending on each other for protection and strength. But what lies otuside of the mist-shrouded bog? When the oldest goes searching for answers she discovers the mysterious witch who haunts the swamp. Opens 5/2 and runs through 6/1 (previews 4/23 - 5/1) at Chicago Dramatists, 1105 W. Chicago. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 312/633-0630. $22-28. www.ChicagoDramatists.org

Cast: Suellen Burton, Catherine Glynn, Alison Lani, Morgan E.K. McNaught, Rebecca Montalvo, Penelope Walker, Ruth Bistrow, Julie Marguerite Dahlinger, Krystal Mosely, Mercy Oni, Thea Richard. Crew: Russ Tutterow, director; Brian Sidney Bembridge, set design; Jeff Pines, light design; Barry Bennett, sound design; Kerith Wolf, costume design; Dan Pellant, properties design; Allison J. Daniel, puppet director & design; Lisa Johnson-Willingham, choreographer.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater

The Comedy of Errors—Shakespeare’s earliest comedy - in which Antipholus and his servant Dromio search for their long-lost twin brothers - is set as a play-within-a-play in which an eccentric group of English actors gather in the midst of the London blitz. Opens 5/7 and runs through 6/29 (previews 4/27 - 5/6) at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E. Grand. Tues 7:30pm, Wed 1 & 7:30pm, Thurs-Fri 7:30pm, Sat 3 & 8pm, Sun 3 & 7pm, no matinee 5/14, no evening performance 5/11, 5/18, 5/25 & 6/4. 312/595-5600. $54-70. www.chicagoshakes.com

Cast: Timothy Edward Kane, Sean Allan Krill, Ross Lehman, Kevin Gudahl, Dale Benson, Norm Boucher, William Dick, Don Forston, Sean Fortunato, Dane Holverson, Angela Ingersoll, Dan Kenney, Kymberly Mellen, Roger Mueller, Dan Sanders-Joyce, Paula Scrofano. Crew: Barbara Gaines & Ron West, co-directors; Ann Kuzmanic, costume design; Neil Patel, set design; Robert Wierzel, light design; Lindsay Jones, sound design; Melissa Veal, wig & make-up design.

Illinois Theatre Center

See What I Wanna See—Based on stories by Ryonosuke Akutagawa, this unique theatre piece takes us from ancient Japan to modern day New York City with three tales that are sensual, suspenseful and inspiring. Opens 4/25 and runs through 5/11 at Illinois Theatre Center, 371 Artists Walk, Lake Forest. Wed-Sat 8pm, Sun 2:30 & 7:30pm. 708/481-3510. $19-21. www.ilthctr.org

Cast: Marilynn Bogetich, Alan Ball, Jeff Max, Lauren Creel, Matthew Sean Callahan. Crew: David Perkovich, director.

Lookingglass Theatre

Around the World in 80 Days—Lookingglass’ flexible theatre space will morph into countless exotic foreign locales as audiences take a whirlwind tour around the world in this fast, fun new adaptation of Jules Verne’s grand adventure. Opens 4/26 and runs through 6/1 (previews 4/16 - 4/25) at Lookingglass Theatre, 821 N. Michigan. Tues-Fri 7:30pm, Sat-Sun 3 & 7:30pm. 312/337-0665. $25-55. www.lookingglasstheatre.org

Cast: Rom Barkhordar, Ravi Batista, Joe Dempsey, Kevin Douglas, Anish Jethmalani, Ericka Ratcliff, Nick Sandys, Philip R. Smith. Crew: Laura Eason, adapter & director; Mara Blumenfeld, costume design; Lee Keenan, light design; Jacqueline Penrod & Richard Penrod, set design; Joshua Horvath, sound design; Kevin O’Donnell, composition; Tracy Walsh, choreographer; Nick Sandys, fight choreographer.

Next Theatre Company

9 Parts of Desire—In this one woman show, Heather Raffo depicts a powerful and diverse range of Iraqi women: a sexy painter, an overwhelmed trauma doctor, a free-spirited artist who once painted portraits of Saddam Hussein, and a pro-war expatriate living in London. Opens 5/3 and runs through 5/18 at Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago. Call for schedule. 847/475-1875. $23-38. www.nexttheatre.org

Cast: Heather Raffo.

Noble Fool Theatricals

I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change—Couples will fall in love again with this comical and musical celebration of the modern-day suburban mating game. It’s everything anyone has ever secretly thought about dating, romance, marriage, lovers, husbands, wives and in-laws. Opens 5/3 and runs through 7/19 (previews 5/1 - 5/3) at Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. Thurs-Fri 8pm, Sat 5 & 8:30pm, Sun 2pm, additional performances 5/15 & 5/29 2pm. 630/584-6342. $27-38. www.noblefool.org

Cast: Charissa Armon, Karl Hamilton, Amy Olsen, John Sanders. Crew: Tom Mullen, director.

Provision Theater Company

Smoke on the Mountain—Pastor Oglethorpe is determined to move his flock back into the “modern world,” by inviting the Singing Sanders Family to join him. They will delight you with some of the best old gospel tunes ever written. Opens 5/10 and runs through 6/8 (previews 5/8 - 5/9) at Viaduct Theater, 3111 N. Western. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 773/506-4429. $25. www.provisiontheater.org

Cast: Susan Moniz, Richard Marlatt, Alex Goodrich, Shaun Whitley, Christine Barnes, Amber Burgess. Crew: Tim Gregory, director; Laura Ng, stage manager; John Zuiker, set design.

A Red Orchid Theatre

Not a Game for Boys—Ping Pong is a game like no other. It demands dexterity, lightning quick reflexes and nerves of steel. But nerves are fraying among a team of three London cabbies as they face elimination from their elite league. Opens 5/5 and runs through 6/15 (previews 5/2 - 5/4) at A Red Orchid Theatre, 1531 N. Wells. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 7pm, 6/1 3pm. 312/943-8722. $20-25. www.a-red-orchid.com

Cast: Guy Van Swearingen, Dan Rivkin, Bob Turton. Crew: Robin Witt, director; Karen Kawa, costume design; Courtney O’Neill, set design; Sara Hughey, light design; Nick Keenan, sound design; Becky Marshal, properties design; Clare Hane, dialects.

Royal George Theatre

Russian on the Side—In this one-man comedy-in-music adventure, Mark Nadler takes audiences on a zany 90-minute journey from Stravinsky to Sondheim. Nadler tickles the ivories and dishes gossip about some of the world’s greatest composers. Opens 4/30 and runs through 6/15 (previews 4/22 - 4/29) at Royal George Theatre, 1641 N. Halsted. Tues-Thurs 7:30pm, Fri 8pm, Sat 5 & 9pm, Sun 3 & 5:30pm, additional performances 5/14, 5/28 & 6/11 2pm, no performances 4/27, 5/13, 5/27, 6/7 & 6/10. 312/988-9000. $34.50-55. www.theroyalgeorgetheatre.com

Cast: Mark Nadler. Crew: Mark Waldrop, director.

Shakespeare Project of Chicago

As You LIke It—Good fights evil, a melancholy pessimist waxes eloquent, and love conquers all in Shakespeare’s simultaneously whimsical and poignant sylvan comedy. Opens 4/26 and runs through 4/27 at various locations. Sat 10am & 2pm, Sun 2pm. 773/334-8771. Free. home.comcast.net/~tspchicago

Crew: Jeff Christian, director.

Silk Road Theatre Project

Durango—To the outside world, the Lee boys look like the perfect Korean American sons. But when their widowed father decides to take them on a road trip to Durango, Colorado, all three find themselves grappling with old memories and unhealed wounds. Opens 5/10 and runs through 6/15 (previews 5/1 - 5/9) at Silk Road Theatre Project, 77 W. Washington St. Thurs 7:30pm, Fri 8pm, Sat 4 & 8pm, Sun 4pm. 888/745-5849. $28-32. www.srtp.org

Cast: Joseph Anthony Foronda, Walter Brody, Austin Campion, Erik Kaiko, Dawen Wang. Crew: Carlos Murillo, director; Marianna Csaszar, set design; Carol Blanchard, costume design; Rob Steel, light design; Rebecca Barrett, sound design; Lavina Jadhwani, dramaturg; Benjamin Herman, stage manager.

TimeLine Theatre Company

Trumbo—Though the brilliant and razor-sharp letters to friends, former friends and family, this is the fascinating and often spellbinding look at how legendary screenwriter Dalton Trumbo took the House Un-American Activities Committee and won. Opens 5/4 and runs through 6/2 at TimeLine Theatre Company, 615 W. Wellington. Sun-Mon 7pm. 773/281-8463. $15. www.TimeLineTheatre.com

Cast: Howard Witt, David Parkes. Crew: Louis Contey, director.

Non-Equity

Annoyance Theatre

Space Future—The dreaded Space Overlord has banned music from every planet in the universe and all citizens live in constant fear. Enter the not-so-good looking slacker/Prince/future rock & roller who is the only hope for peace…although he doesn’t know it yet! Opens 4/26 and runs through 6/28 at Annoyance Theatre, 4830 N. Broadway. Sat 8pm. 773/561-4665. $15. www.theannoyance.com

Crew: Dunbar Dicks, Forest Hynes & Brian Penkrot, playwrights; Dunbar Dicks & Brian Penkrot, original music; Forest Hynes, director.

Big Noise Theatre Company

Urinetown—This show won’t change people’s minds about golbal warming or carry any sort of noble purpose. It will just be funny. Opens 4/25 and runs through 5/18 at Prairie Lakes Center Theater, 515 E. Thacker, Des Plaines. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 2pm. 847/604-0275. $20. www.bignoise.org

Cast: Jon Cunningham, Summar Jonas, Peter Verdico, Marian Kaderbek, Tom Moore, Steve Malon, Lora Ristau, Tom Walker, Angel Abcede, Melissa Young, Bobby Diehl, Tony Patryn, Linda Andrews, Alexis Armstrong, Kansas Lynn Batten. Crew: Rick Frendt, director & set design; Nancy Flaster, choreographer; Ryan Brewster, musical director; Helga Kennedy, stage manager.

Circle Theatre

Enchanted April—Four English women whose lives have been thrown into turmoil by war break free of their rain-drenched sorrows and oppression for a month spent in a rented Italian castle. Opens 4/30 and runs through 6/8 (previews 4/25 - 4/29) at Circle Theatre, 7300 W. Madison. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 708/771-0700. $26. www.circle-theatre.org

Cast: Patricia Austin, Derek Czaplewski, Michael Gonring, Terri Lopez, Darci Nalepa, Brian Rabinowitz, Mary Redmon, Michelle Weissgerber. Crew: Bob Knuth, director, set & light design; Monica Wilson, asst. director; kClare Kemock, stage manager; Suzanne Mann, costume design; Peter J. Storms, sound design.

Citadel Theatre Company

Another Piece of Cake—On her 80th birthday, Great Aunt Clara decides that she has no more use for secrets. Between bites of cake and shots of bourbon, Clara and her friends quickly draw Diane, Edward, and Tandy into the true story of their lives. Opens 5/2 and runs through 5/18 at Gorton Community Center, 400 E. Illinois, Lake Forest. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 2pm, 5/8 8pm, no performance 5/4. 847/735-8554. $25. www.citadeltheatre.org

Cast: Debra Criche Mell, Amy Ticho, Cheryl Rice, Amee Binder, Claudia Garrison, Debra Rodkin, James Holbrook. Crew: Katheryn Jones, director.

City Lit Theatre Company

Pudd’nhead Wilson—Roxana, a woman whose ancestry is 1/16th African is designated by law as black and holds her in slavery. To save her son from the same fate, she switches him in the cradle with a legally white baby. Opens 5/5 and runs through 6/15 (previews 5/2 - 5/4) at City Lit Theatre Company, 1020 W. Bryn Mawr. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 773/293-3682. $25. www.citylit.org

Cast: Jerry Bloom, Kingsley Day, Ehren Fournier, Noelle Hardy, Dan Howard, Randolph Johnson, Jim Morley, Craig J. Newman, Katy Nielsen, Mark Pracht, Adam Todd, Shawna Tucker. Crew: Terry McCabe & Brian Pastor, adapters; Terry McCabe, director; Nathan Rohrer, costume design; Katie Claudnic, light design; Keith Pitts, set design.

Collision Theatre

Curious Dangerous—Events unfold around an unusual quartet: a dying young woman, her impulsive best friend, a newlywed mysteriously curious husband and a stranger with a paper bag over his head. Opens 4/25 and runs through 5/24 (previews 4/23 - 4/24) at EP Theater, 1820 S. Halsted. Wed-Sat 8pm. 312/281-8041. $20. www.collisiontheatre.org

Cast: Kate Cares, Josh Wolff, Pat King, Kristina Klemetti. Crew: Libby Ford, director; Lindsey Barlag Amanda Dunne, performance installation.

Curious Theatre Branch

The Other Side of the Elephant—New short plays by Curious writers. Opens 5/2 and runs through 6/8 at Prop Thtr, 3406 N. Elston. Fri-Sun 8pm. 773/267-6660. $15. www.curioustheatrebranch.com

Crew: Scott T. Barsotti, playwright; Jayita Bhattacharya, playwright; Bryn Magnus, playwright; Jenny Magnus, playwright; Beau O’Reilly, playwright; Shawn Reddy, playwright; Matt Rieger, playwright; Matt Test, playwright; Matthew Wilson, playwright.

Dramatis Personae

Den of Thieves—Maggie is a newly single, junk-food binging shoplifter looking to change her life joins up with her compulsive-overeating sponsor and her jealous ex-boyfriend to steal unprotected drug money from a downtown disco. Opens 5/9 and runs through 5/18 at Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 7pm. 773/598-4549. $15.

Drury Lane Theatre Water Tower Place

Shout! The Mod Musical—This fast-paced journey through infectious and soulful pop anthems and ballads frame the journey of five women during the liberating days of the 1960’s that made England swing! Opens 4/30 and runs through 6/22 at Drury Lane Theatre Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut. Wed-Thurs 7:30pm, Fri 8pm, Sat 2, 6 & 9pm, Sun 2 & 6pm. 312/642-2000. $45. www.drurylanewatertower.com

Cast: Lauren Fijol, Megan Long, Danielle Plisz, Maggie Portman, Jennlee Shallow. Crew: Jay Falzone, director & choreographer; David Gallo, set design; Jason Lyons, light design; Tony Meola & Adam Rigby, sound design; Phillip Heckman, costume design; Bradley Vieth, orchestrations and additional arrangements.

Elgin Theatre Company

Nunsense II—Six weeks after the sisters have staged their first benefit, they’re back in Mount Saint Helen’s gymnasium, presenting a “thank-you” show for all the people who supported them in the past. Opens 5/2 and runs through 5/17 at Theatre 355, 355 E. Chicago St., Elgin. Fri-Sat 8pm. 847/741-0532. $15. www.elgin-theatre.org

Cast: Denise Tamburrino, Nancy Davis, Synoma Hays, Kimberly Wiczer, Amanda Pallanti. Crew: Kevin Wiczer, director; Angel Szalonek & Jack Davis, musical directors; Kara Williams, choreographer.

Elmhurst College

Cloud Nine—The relationships of family and friends are set against the landscape of colonial Victorian Africa before moving forward 100 years to contemporary London. Opens 4/24 and runs through 5/3 at Mill Theatre, 253 Walter St., Elmhurst. Thurs-Sat 8pm. 630/617-3005. $7. www.elmhurst.edu/ectheatre

Cast: Michael Mannochio, Andrew Behling, Anthony Mele, Ben Furman, Erica Litwin, Kaitlin Fleharty, Nicole Boylan. Crew: Janice Pohl, director; Rick Arnold Jr., set design.

Gorilla Tango Theatre

Blow Me, Seriously—The wayward characters in this sketch show mistake instant gratification for moral justice. From junior high angst to white collar mergers, from the night club to the Oval Office, this show explores rebellious natures in all aspects of society. Opens 5/7 and runs through 5/28 at Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee. Wed 8pm. 773/598-4549. $12. www.gorillatango.com

Grove Players

Over the Tavern—The children of the Pazinski family are caught between the authoritarianism of the Roman Catholic Church and an emotionally abusive father. Only their mother, with her good sense, sanity and wry humor, keeps this family afloat. Opens 4/25 and runs through 5/4 at Lincoln Auditorium, 1111 S. Grove St., Oak Park. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 2pm. 630/415-3682. $14. www.groveplayers.org

Cast: Jenna Liddle, Elliott Plowman, Sam Staley, Andrew DeHart, David Hays. Crew: Marilyn Ludwig, director; Kate Libby, asst. director.

Halcyon Theatre

Henry IV—An Italian nobleman falls from his horse during a pageant. When he comes round, he believes he’s the medieval German Emperor, King Henry IV. Time has stopped, and for twenty years he has lived this illusion but today a plot is being hatched. Opens 5/3 and runs through 6/7 (previews 5/2) at Peter Jones Gallery Theatre, 1806 W. Cuyler – 2^nd floor. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 6pm. 312/458-9170. $15. www.halcyontheatre.org

Cast: James Allen, Clint Belton, Juan Castaneda, Petrucia Finkler, Michael Graham, Eric Lee, Scott Allen Luke, DeRante Parker, David Pittman, Greg Poljacik, Denise Santomauro, Nick Staten. Crew: Tony Adams, director, adapter, set & costume design; Jesus Contreras, asst. director; Tom McGrath, light design; Tony Bruno, sound design; Greg Poljacik, fight choreographer.

Heritage Theatre Company

You Brought This On Yourself—Epic in structure, the play is concerned with a liberal suburban family that clashes with a conservative high school when their daughter is the victim of a hate crime. Opens 5/1 for one performance at Lewis University, Route 53, Romeoville. Thurs 8pm. 815/836-5480. Free. www.heritagetheatrecompany.com

Cast: Jason Aguirre, Matt Bartels, Mary Kate Brophy, Jeremy Brzycki, Danielle Cybulski, Daniel Daw, Millicent Daw, Sara DiVecchio, Erin Dowse, Devon Ford, Carmi Frankovich, Sarah Gibbons, Guinevere Grana, Laureen Guthrie, Emily Kadar, Kate Hafey, Tom Hernandez. Crew: George Miller, playwright; John Kilpatrick, film director; Mike McFerron, original music & sound design; Christy Jones, stage manager.

The Hypocrites

Our Town—Stripping the stage of props and scenery, Thornton Wilder focuses on the mind and emotions contained within in this time capsule for small-town Americana. Opens 4/27 and runs through 6/8 (previews 4/24 - 4/26) at Chopin Theater, 1543 W. Division. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 2pm. 866/811-4111. $20. www.the-hypocrites.com

Cast: Jessica Anne, David Cromer, Robert Fagin, Samantha Gleisten, Jennifer Grace, Brian Hinkle, Rosalind Hurwitz, Jonathan Mastro, Jeremy Noll, Bill O’Connor, Stacy Stoltz, D’Wayne Taylor. Crew: David Cromer, director; Courtney O’Neill, set design; Alison Siple, costume design; Jonathan Mastro, original music & sound design; Heather Gilbert, light design.

Janus Theatre

The Greatest Story eBortolt: A Brecht Review—In this collage of music, theatre and poetry, six actors find themselves together in a run-down German caf?. With just their will and charisma they tell the story of Bertolt Brecht - a revolutionary poet who fled Germany when Hitler rose to power. Opens 5/2 and runs through 5/18 at Elgin Art Showcase, 164 Division St. – 8^th floor. Fri-Sat 8pm. 847/931-0637. $15. www.janustheatre.org

Cast: Lori Holm, Rise Dawn Jones, Steve Macarus, Jocelyn Mills, Greg Peters, Jim Pierce. Crew: Sarafina Vecchio, director; Meredith Koch, stage manager; Andy Murschel, designer.

Links Hall

Returning from One Place to Another: A Poet’s Theater Showcase—The works featured in this month-long festival come out of a tradition that seeks to use theatrical space as a medium for poetic composition. Opens 5/2 and runs through 5/25 at Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 7pm. 773/281-0824. $12. www.linkshall.org

Crew: John Beer, curator.

MPAACT

She Calls Up the Sun—A uniquely lyrical, slightly melancholy, exploration of rural Florida culture and folklore, this is the tale of a “coastal woman” who in her search for faith and forgiveness, uses both needle and thread to confront the ghosts of her past. Opens 4/27 and runs through 6/2 (previews 4/18 - 4/26) at Victory Gardens Greenhouse, 2257 N. Lincoln. Thurs-Fri 8:30pm, Sat 8pm, Sun 3:30pm. 773/871-3000. $19.50-22.50. www.mpaact.org

Crew: Addae Moon, playwright; Carla Stillwell, director.

North Riverside Recreation Community Theater

Gypsy—The melodramtic tale of an aggressive stage mother and her two daughters as they cross the United States in search of stardom during the demise of vaudeville and the birth of burlesque. Opens 4/25 and runs through 5/4 at North Riverside Village Commons, 2401 S. Des Plaines Ave., North Riverside. Fri-Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2pm. 708/567-3572. $15. www.nrrct.com

Cast: Michelle McKenzie-Voigt, Bernadett York, Jim Heatherly, Marie Clawson, Michael Barr, Dominic Boyte, Anna Karas, Albert Lam, Shawn Quinlan, Lainie Williams, Olivia Landa, Leslie Lee, Frank Petrovic, Jim Votava, Rebecca Black, Chelsea Goldsmith. Crew: John Nasca, director.

Open Door Repertory Company

The Oldest Profession—As Ronald Reagan enters the White House, five aging practitioners of the oldest profession are faced with a diminishing clientele, increased competition for their niche market and aching joints. Opens 4/26 and runs through 5/18 (previews 4/24 - 4/25) at Open Door Repertory Company, 1000 N. Ridgeland, Oak Park. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 2pm, no performance 5/16. 708/802-1723. $15. www.opendoor-community.com

Crew: Brett Kashanitz, director.

Pegasus Players

Golda’s Balcony—From the pogroms of Russia to the halls of the Knesset, this is a journey through the personal trials of Golda Meir, exploring who she was and how she came to have such a profound connection to Israel. Opens 5/5 and runs through 6/15 (previews 5/1 - 5/4) at Pegasus Players, 1145 W. Wilson. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 773/878-9761. $17-25. www.pegasusplayers.com

Cast: Janet Ulrich Brooks. Crew: Alex Levy, director; Tom Burch, set design; Denise Karczewski, light design; Laura Kollar, costume design; Christopher Kriz, sound design; Christopher Sauber, properties design; Beth Woodard, stage manager; Marcus Petrella, production manager.

People’s Theater of Chicago

Torch Song Trilogy—Three individual plays combine into one hilarious, heart-tugging and provocative evening of theatre in this concert reading to support Season of Concern. Opens 5/5 and runs through 5/6 at Leather Archives Musem and Theater, 6418 N. Greenview. Mon-Tues 7pm. 312/332-0518. $30. www.peoplestheaterchicago.org

Cast: Madrid St. Angelo, Stephen Rader, Renee Matthews, Remy O’Brien, Andrew Kain Miller, David Berghoef. Crew: Joe Stead, director.

Raven Theatre

Laughter on the 23rd Floor—Max Prince, star of a 1953 variety show, is a booze-guzzling, pill-popping comic genius, desperate to protect his team in the face of network cutbacks. Despite rising McCarthyism and resistant executives the writing room’s antics get more outrageous. Opens 5/4 and runs through 6/28 (previews 4/29 - 5/3) at Raven Theatre, 6157 N. Clark. Thurs- Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 773/338-2177. $25. raventheatre.com

Cast: Dan Granata, Eric Roach, Dean La Prairie, Noah Simon, Jeremy Glickstein, Greg Caldwell, Greg Hardin, Mackenzie Kyle, Elizabeth Lesinski. Crew: Michael Menendian, director; Christine Ferriter, light design; JoAnn Montemurro, costume design; Ray Toler, set design.

redtwist

Doubt—Sister Aloysius painstakingly constructs a seemingly airtight case against a parish priest, and yet… Opens 5/9 and runs through 6/8 (previews 5/6 - 5/8) at redtwist, 1044 W. Bryn Mawr. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 312/622-1136. $22-30. actorsworkshop.org

Cast: Devon Candura, LaNisa Frederick, Jan Ellen Graves, C. Sean Piereman. Crew: Greg Kolack, director; Kaitlyn Lamansky, stage manager; Rick Porter, asst. stage manager; Anders Jacobson, set design; John Kohn III, light design; Tom Haigh, sound design; Erin Fast, costume design.

Rising Stars Theatre Company

Grease—Join Rydell High School’s class of ‘59 as they rock and roll their way through senior year and be a part of the fun. Opens 4/26 and runs through 5/11 at St. Patrick Performing Arts Centre, 5900 W. Belmont. Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2pm. 773/736-2490. $15. www.risingstarstc.org

Robot vs. Dinosaur

The Greatest Stories Never Told…TOLD!—Tall and lanky tales of adventure in the old west, on the battlefield and in fairyland. Opens 4/26 and runs through 5/11 at Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee. Sat-Sun 4pm. 773/598-4549. $10.

Saint Sebastian Players

Fools—In the Ukrainian village of Kulyenchikov, which is cursed with stupidity, Dr. Zubritsky and his wife hire an outside teacher for their lovely daughter. When he falls in love with his pupil, the teacher vows to break the town’s curse. Opens 4/25 and runs through 5/18 at Saint Sebastian Players, 1625 W. Diversey. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 2pm. 773/404-7922. $15. members.aol.com/stsebplyrs

Cast: Jim Masini, John Oster, Nancy Pollock, Torey Adkins, Michael Borgmann, Jason Garvett, Christina Gorman, Lona Livingston, Sarah Loveland, Dan Wachter. Crew: Renae Stone, director; Jonathan Hagloch, technical director & set design; Heather McConaha, costume design; John Oster, properties design.

Strawdog Theatre Company

Old Town—Set on election night at Chicago’s fictional Whitler Hotel, this is the story of the Weltz family political dynasty and their date with the fickle Chicago voting public. Opens 4/27 and runs through 5/31 (previews 4/24 - 4/26) at Strawdog Theatre Company, 3829 N. Broadway. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 7pm, 5/5, 5/15 & 5/29 8pm. 773/528-9696. $20. www.StrawDog.org

Crew: Brett Neveu, playwright; Kyle Hamman, director; Mikhail Fiksel, original music.

Thresholds Theatre Arts Project

When I Was Little I Believed in Once Upon a Time—Do you believe in “once upon a time?” What does it look like, feel like, sound like? Join us as we explore expectations, icons, memory and image; shared through original monologues, music scenes, story theatre and improvisation. Opens 4/21 and runs through 5/7 at Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont. Sun-Mon 7pm, Tues 10:30am, Wed 7pm. 773/435-3536. $20. www.thresholds.org

UWM Peck School of the Arts

The Caucasian Chalk Circle—Grusha is a maid caught holding a baby in the middle of a revolution. After peace is restored, a court must decide who should have the child - his royal kin who abandoned him, or the peasant who suffered to keep him safe. Opens 4/22 and runs through 4/27 at UWM Peck School of the Arts, 2400 E. Kenwood Blvd., Milwaukee, WI. Tues-Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2pm. 414/229-4308. $10. www.uwm.edu

Crew: Raeleen McMillion, director.

Children’s

Chicago Kids Company

Jack and the Beanstalk—Join Jack and his dancing Spanish cow Carmelita as they try to save their village from a crazy Giant. You’ll meet a goose that lays golden eggs, a beautiful singing Harp, a wacky Giant and his crazy wife, and see the Beanstalk grow. Opens 4/24 and runs through 8/23 at St. Patrick Performing Arts Centre, 5900 W. Belmont. Call for schedule. 773/205-9600. $10. www.chicagokidscompany.com

Cast: Matt Rudy, Lavenia Davis, Ellen Fliesler, Jeff Bouthiette. Crew: Jesus Perez, director, set & costume design; Paige Coffman, musical director, choreographer; Lara Caprini, stage manager.

Christian Youth Theater

Alice in Wonderland—Modern rock-opera songs and dances highlight this topsy-turvy world based on the beloved works of Lewis Carroll. Opens 5/8 and runs through 5/18 at CCC Arts Auditorium, 2500 Dowie Dr., Zion. Thurs 9:30 & 11:45am, Fri 7pm, Sat 2 & 6pm, Sun 2pm. 847/516-2298. $8-14. www.cytchicago.org

The Jungle Book—A young boy named Mowgli is raised in the jungles of India by a pack of wolves. There he learns the laws of the jungle from his good friends Baloo the bear and Bagheera the black panther. Opens 5/8 and runs through 5/18 at Lake Zurich Performing Arts Center, 300 Church St., Lake Zurich. Thurs 9:30 & 11:45am, Fri 7pm, Sat 2 & 6pm, Sun 2pm, additional performance 5/18 6pm. 847/516-2298. $8-14. www.cytchicago.org

Oliver—Amidst a dingy and dank orphanage, Oliver proffers his bowl and asks for more food. This simple act leads him to being sold and on an incredible adventure. Opens 5/8 and runs through 5/17 at Timothy Christian Auditorium, 188 W. Butterfield Rd., Elmhurst. Fri 7pm, Sat 2 & 6pm, 5/8 9:30 & 11:45am. 847/516-2298. $8-14. www.cytchicago.org

Seussical Jr.—Explore the witty, wild and whimsical world of Dr. Seuss as you’ve never seen it before. Travel back to your childhood to the Land of Whos and the Jungle of Nool and re-discover the crazy characters of Dr. Seuss. Opens 5/8 and runs through 5/18 at Huntley HS Performing Arts Center, 13719 Harmony Rd., Huntley. Fri 7pm, Sat 2 & 6pm, Sun 2pm, 5/8 9:30 & 11:45am. 847/516-2298. $8-14. www.cytchicago.org

The Wizard of Oz—A young farm girl named Dorothy finds a twister that carries her over the rainbow and into the land of Oz. There she meets a scarecrow with no brain, a tin man with no heart and a lion with no courage. Opens 4/30 and runs through 5/4 at Hononegah Performing Arts Center, 307 Salem St., Rockton. Wed 9:30 & 11:45am, Fri 10am & 7pm, Sat 2 & 6pm, Sun 2pm. 847/516-2298. $8-14. www.cytchicago.org

Spotlight Theatrix Productions

Seussical the Musical—Horton the elephant is the only creature in the jungle of Nool who can hear the cries of the tiny Whos in Whoville. He sets out to protect their dust-speck-sized world and has to cope with the ridicule of his jungle neighbors. Opens 5/2 and runs through 5/4 at Stage One Theatre, 620 Lee St., Des Plaines. Fri 7:30pm, Sat 3 & 7:30pm, Sun 3pm. 630/808-5852. $13-16. www.artreachspotlite.com/spotlite

Cast: Dan Walsh, Ian Hoffman, Dana Hardel, Lisa Brueck, Nick Conner, Joey Pape, Merrick Wayne, Lin Hendrickson, Hanna Forrest, Kaitlyn Kalbas, Morgan Moodhe, Olivia Seller, Lexi Seller, Saja Blevins, Larry Wisowaty, Jennie Davis, Barry Norton, Nikki Kanelos.

Theatre of Western Springs

All in the Timing—David Ives’ hilarious collection of short plays that examine language, love and popular culture are directed by members of the high school repertory cast. Opens 5/2 and runs through 5/4 at Theatre of Western Springs, 4584 Hampton Ave. Fri 7:30, Sat 2:30 & 7:30pm, Sun 2:30pm. 708/246-3380. $6-12. www.TheatreWesternSprings.com

Cast: Drew Ariana, Meghan Sullivan, Hannah Bulger, Julia Selby, Kristie Denlinger, Ivan Keta, Kerstin Walker, Renee Perez, Samantha Flynn, Elizabeth Myhre, Abigail Canfield, Anna Fogarty, Tim Johnson, Spencer Dees, Casey Hartnett, Caroline Dost, Ben Mueller. Crew: Luke Grimes, director; Anders Swanson, director; Jaime Kelleher, production stage manager; Rachel Lezon, stage manager; Leah Hardin, asst. stage manager; Kara Abernathy & Samantha Armstrong, costume design Marybeth Stork & Lily Sikes, light design.

Improv

Corn Productions

The Original Improv Gladiators: Season Three—In this improv team competition round one teams perform 10-15 minutes of long form improv and in round two compete against the Improv Gladiators. Opens 4/23 and runs through 6/4 at Cornservatory, 4210 N. Lincoln. Wed 8pm, no performance 5/21. 312/409-6435. $10. www.cornservatory.org

The Essentials

The Truth—Chicago’s upcoming and veteran improv and sketch groups perform. No competition. No referees. Just The Truth. Opens 5/3 and runs through 5/31 at Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee. Sat 11:30pm. 773/598-4549. $10.

Gorilla Tango Theatre

Brat Pack: An Improvised Musical—By using audience suggestions, a full-blown musical takes the audience through a storyline filled with relationships, conflicts and lovable and memorable characters in a traditional John Hughes fashion. Opens 5/8 and runs through 5/29 at Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee. Thurs 8pm. 773/598-4549. $10. www.gorillatango.com

Second City

One Nation, Under Blog—Opens 4/25 and runs through 4/25 at Elgin Community College, 355 E. Chicago St., Elgin. Fri 8:30pm. 312/337-3992. $21-25. www.secondcity.com

Strippers Picnic

America’s Next Pop Bottle—Congratulations. You are still in the running towards becoming America’s Next Pop Bottle. Opens 5/1 and runs through 5/29 at Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee. Thurs 9:30pm. 773/598-4549. $10.

Performance

Donkey Corp.

Still Life With Donkey—A smoker’s variety show sponsored by the manufacturers of Red Donkey Brand cigarettes.This premium blend of film and theatre is sure to tantalize the tastebuds. Opens 4/20 and runs through 4/20 at Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee. Sun 3:30pm. 773/598-4549. $15.

Cast: Kay Capasso, Mel Miller, Mark Penzien, Ollie Oliver, Pete Johnston, Matt Hutchinson, Santana Vermeesch, Jonathon Musser, Dustin Bissel. Crew: Peter Johnston, director; Dustin Bissell, playwright.

Hyatt Regency Woodfield

Carney’s Wonders—Magician John Carney presents an engaging, smart and funny theatrical experience that dances on the edge of impossibility. Opens 5/2 and runs through 5/2 at Hyatt Regency Woodfield, 1800 E. Golf Rd. Fri 8pm. 773/263-8951. $30.

Cast: John Carney.

Museum of Contemporary Art

Reggie Watts: Disinformation—This sublime mix of absurdist storytelling, live mixed music, freestyle beat box, and sharp, improvised comedy uses political and cultural satire to comment on globalization religion, corporate drones and popular culture. Opens 4/25 for one performance at Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago. Fri 7:30pm. 312/397-4010. $20. www.mcachicago.org

Cast: Eggie Watts, Deja Taylor.

The Suicide Kings—The three members of The Suicide Kings appear as teachers, leading a poetry workshop at a pubic school, who find themselves under harsh scrutiny when one of their students goes on a shooting spree. Opens 4/26 for one performance at Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago. Sat 7:30pm. 312/397-4010. $20. www.mcachicago.org

Currently Running

Equity

16th Street Theater

The Ascension of Carlotta—Runs through 5/4 at 16th Street Theater, 6420 16th St., Berwyn. Thurs-Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2:30pm. 800/838-3006. $16. www.16thstreettheater.org

Black Ensemble Theater

I Am Who I Am (The Story of Teddy Pendergrass)—Open run at Black Ensemble Theater, 4520 N. Beacon. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 773/769-4451. $45. www.blackensembletheater.org

Broadway In Chicago

Jersey Boys—Open run at LaSalle Bank Theatre, 18 W. Monroe. Tues 7:30pm, Wed 2 & 7:30pm, Thurs 7:30pm, Fri 8pm, Sat 2 & 8pm, Sun 2pm. 312/902-1400. $30-95. www.broadwayinchicago.com

Wicked—Open run at Ford Center for the Performing Arts, 24 W. Randolph. Tues 7:30pm, Wed 2

& 7:30pm, Thurs 7:30pm, Fri 8pm, Sat 2 & 8pm, Sun 2pm. 312/902-1400. $25-90. www.broadwayinchicago.com

Chicago Theatre

Shear Madness—Open run at Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State. Mon 7:30pm, Fri 7:30pm, Sat 6 & 9pm, Sun 3pm. 312/462-6300. $42.50. thechicagotheatre.com

The Gift Theatre Company

The Last Days of Judas Iscariot—Runs through 5/4 at The Gift Theatre Company, 4802 N. Milwaukee. Thurs-Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2:30pm. 312/458-9721. $20-25. www.thegifttheatre.org

Marriott Theatre

Les Miserables—Runs through 5/11 at Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Dr., Lincolnshire. Wed 1 & 8pm, Thurs-Fri 8pm, Sat 2:30 & 8pm, Sun 1 & 5pm. 847/634-0200. $45. www.marriotttheatre.com

Noble Fool Theatricals

Late Nite Catechism—Runs through 5/31 at Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. Sat 6pm, Sun 2:30pm. 630/584-6342. $27. www.noblefool.org

Northlight Theatre

Better Late—Extended through 5/18 at Northlight Theatre, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie. Tues 7:30pm, Wed 1 & 7:30pm, Thurs 7:30pm, Fri 8pm, Sat 2:30 & 8pm, Sun 2:30 & 7pm, no performance 5/6. 4/2 & 4/9. 847/673-6300. $35-55. www.northlight.org

Porchlight Music Theatre Chicago

Nine—Runs through 5/18 at Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 2:30pm. 773/327-5252. $34-35. www.Porchlighttheatre.com

Remy Bumppo Theatre Co.

Bronte—Runs through 5/4 at Victory Gardens Greenhouse, 2257 N. Lincoln. Wed-Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2:30pm. 773/871-3000. $35-40. www.remybumppo.org

Royal George Theatre

A Steady Rain—Runs through 6/8 at Royal George Theatre, 1641 N. Halsted. Tues-Thurs 7:30pm, Fri 8pm, Sat 5 & 8pm, Sun 2 & 5pm. 312/988-9000. $30-45. www.theroyalgeorgetheatre.com

Steppenwolf Theatre Company

Dead Man’s Cell Phone—Runs through 7/27 at Steppenwolf Theatre Company, 1650 N. Halsted. Tues-Fri 7:30pm, Sat-Sun 3 & 7:30pm, additional performances 6/25, 7/2, 7/9, 7/16 & 7/23 2pm, no performances 5/3 & 7/4. 312/335-1650. $20-68. www.steppenwolf.org

Theatre at the Center

Knute Rockne All-American—Runs through 5/11 at Theatre at the Center, 907 Ridge Rd., Munster, IN. Wed-Thurs 2pm, Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 6pm. 219/836-3255. $36-40. www.theatreatthecenter.com

Victory Gardens

Four Places—Runs through 5/4 at Biograph Theatre, 2433 N. Lincoln. Tues-Thurs 7:30pm, Fri 8pm, Sat 5 & 8:30pm, Sun 3pm, additional performance 4/30 2pm. 773/871-3000. $20-45. www.victorygardens.org

Vitalist Theatre

A Passage to India—Runs through 5/18 at Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 W. Belmont. Thurs-Sat 7:30pm, Sun 3pm. 773/598-4549. $25.

Non-Equity

Albright Theatre Company

The Outsiders—Runs through 5/4 at Albright Theatre Company, 100 N. Island, Batavia. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 2pm. 630/406-8838. $10-13. www.albrighttheatre.com

American Girl Theater

The American Girls Revue—Open run at American Girl Theater, 111 E. Chicago. Thurs 5:30pm, Fri 5:30 & 7pm, Sat 12:20, 2 & 4pm, Sun 12:30 & 2pm. 877/247-5223. $28. www.americangirl.com

Annoyance Theatre

Bodyslam! The Rise and Fall of CAWC—Extended through 5/16 at Annoyance Theatre, 4830 N. Broadway. Fri 10pm. 773/561-4665. $15. www.theannoyance.com

Another Chicago Theater Company

The Last Play Standing Round 1 - a bucket of fish—Runs through 5/4 at redtwist, 1044 W. Bryn Mawr. Thurs-Sat 7:30pm. 773/984-2787. $10. www.anotherchicago.org

Apollo Theater

Good Crazy Bad Crazy—Runs through 5/12 at Apollo Theater, 2540 N. Lincoln. Fri 8pm. 773/935-6100. $12. www.apollochicago.com

Attic Playhouse

Angel Street—Runs through 5/25 at Attic Playhouse, 410 Sheridan Rd., Highwood. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 847/433-2660. $18-20. atticplayhouse.com

Babes With Blades

Los Desaparecidos (The Vanished)—Runs through 5/11 at Raven Theatre, 6157 N. Clark. Thurs-Sat 8:30pm, Sun 3:30pm. 773/275-0440. $20. www.babeswithblades.org

Bailiwick Repertory

A Fisherman Never Forgets—Runs through 5/30 at Bailiwick Repertory Arts Center, 1229 W. Belmont. Fri 10:30pm. 773/883-1090. $12. www.bailiwick.org

Barrel of Monkeys

That’s Weird, Grandma—Open run at The Neo-Futurists, 5153 N. Ashland. Mon 8pm. 312/409-1954. $10. www.barrelofmonkeys.org

Best Church of God

Best Church of God—Open run at Donny’s Skybox Studio, 1616 N. Wells. Sun 10:30am. 773/458-8282. Free. www.bestchurchofgod.org

Blewt! Productions

Don’t Spit the Water—Open run at The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted. Sat 10pm. 866/208-6296. $15. www.dontspitthewater.com

Chase Park Theatre

Othello—Runs through 5/17 at Chase Park Theatre, 4701 N. Ashland. Fri-Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2pm. 312/742-4701. $8. www.chicagoparktheater.org

Clio Productions

18: A Year With Footnotes—Runs through 5/6 at side project, 1439 W. Jarvis. Mon-Tues 7:30pm. . $10.

Corn Productions

Salute My Shorts!—Runs through 5/17 at Cornservatory, 4210 N. Lincoln. Thurs & Sat 8pm. 312/409-6435. $10. www.cornservatory.org

DePaul University

The Heidi Chronicles—Runs through 4/27 at Merle Reskin Theatre, 60 E. Balbo. Wed-Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2pm. 312/922-1999. $15. theatreschool.depaul.edu

Des Plaines History Center

Rise and Shine—Runs through 4/27 at Des Plaines History Center, 815 Center St., Des Plaines. Fri 8pm, Sat 7pm, Sun 3pm. 847/391-5399. $13-15.

Eclipse Theatre Company

Candles to the Sun—Runs through 5/4 at Victory Gardens Greenhouse, 2257 N. Lincoln. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 773/871-3000. $25. www.eclipsetheatre.com

ETA Creative Arts Foundation

Checkmates—Runs through 6/8 at ETA Creative Arts Foundation, 7558 S. South Chicago. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 3 & 7pm. 773/752-3955. $30. www.etacreativearts.org

Gorilla Tango Theatre

Border/Engaging: A Night of One Acts—Runs through 4/30 at Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee. Wed 7:30pm. 773/598-4549. $15. www.gorillatango.com

You Are Poop—Runs through 5/10 at Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee. Fri-Sat 10pm. 773/598-4549. $15. www.gorillatango.com

Greasy Joan & Company

Macbeth—Runs through 5/25 at Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 312/742-8497. $20. www.greasyjoan.org

GreenMan Theatre Troupe

The Underpants—Runs through 5/4 at Elmhurst Masonic Temple, 103 Arthur St., Elmhurst. Fri-Sat 7:30pm, Sun 3pm. 630/464-2646. $10-15. www.greenmantheatre.com

GreyZelda Theatre Group

The Skriker—Runs through 5/10 at Angel Island, 731 W. Sheridan. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 773/267-6293. $20. www.greyzelda.com

Hobo Junction

The Regulars—Runs through 5/4 at Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 7pm. 773/598-4559. $12. www.myspace.com/hoboinactioncompany

Infamous Commonwealth Theatre

Lewis and Clark Reach the Euphrates—Runs through 5/18 at National Pastime Theatre, 4139 N. Broadway. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 312/458-9780. $20. www.infamouscommonwealth.org

InFusion Theatre Company

Intrigue With Faye—Runs through 6/1 at Royal George Theatre, 1641 N. Halsted. Thurs-Fri 8pm, Sat 9pm, Sun 5pm. 312/742-8497. $20-25. www.infusiontheatre.com

Jedlicka Performing Arts Center

The Wiz—Runs through 5/3 at Jedlicka Performing Arts Center, 3801 S. Central Ave., Cicero. Fri-Sat 7:30pm, Sun 3pm. 708/656-1800. $15. www.jpactheatre.com

Lewis University

The Boy Friend—Runs through 4/27 at Lewis University, Route 53, Romeoville. Fri 8pm, Sat 4 & 8pm, Sun 2:30pm. $12.

LiveWire Theater

Soldiers: The Desert Stand—Runs through 5/4 at side project, 1439 W. Jarvis. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 2pm, additional performances 4/26 & 5/3. 312/533-4666. $15. www.livewirechicago.com

Metropolis Performing Arts Centre

SpeeDating the Musical—Runs through 6/21 at Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. Sat 10pm, no performance 5/3, 5/10 & 5/17. 847/577-2121. $16.50. www.metropolisarts.com

n.u.f.a.n. ensemble

Italian Lights—Runs through 4/27 at Josephinum, 1500 N. Bell. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 7:30pm. 773/282-0344. $15. www.nufanensemble.com

The Neo-Futurists

Picked Up—Runs through 5/17 at The Neo-Futurists, 5153 N. Ashland. Thurs-Sat 8pm. 773/275-5255. $15.

Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind—Open run at The Neo-Futurists, 5153 N. Ashland. Fri-Sat 11:30pm, Sun 7pm. 773/275-5255. $8-13. www.neofuturist.org

Organic Theater Company

WHAT/WHEN—Runs through 5/11 at La Costa Theatre Company, 3931 N. Elston. Fri 8pm, Sat 2 & 8pm, Sun 2pm. 773/561-5600. $29. www.organictheater.com

Piccolo Theatre

Lust, Lies and Marriage—Runs through 5/10 at Evanston Arts Depot, 600 Main St., Evanston. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 847/424-0089. $25. www.piccolotheatre.com

Pintig Cultural Group

Short Acts: Life is a Series of Shorts—Runs through 5/10 at James Downing Theatre, 6740 N. Oliphant. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 312/353-0138. $12. www.pintig.org

Pipers Alley

Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding—Open run at Pipers Alley, 230 W. North Ave. Wed-Thurs 7:30pm, Fri 8pm, Sat 7pm, Sun 5pm. 312/664-8844. $56-70. www.tonyntina.com

The Playground Theater

Thursday Happy Hour—Open run at The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted. Thurs 6pm. 773/871-3793. $5. www.the-playground.com

Profiles Theatre

In a Dark Dark House—Runs through 5/11 at Profiles Theatre, 4147 N. Broadway. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 7pm. 773/549-1815. $25-30. www.Profilestheatre.org

Purple Bench Productions

Disappeared—Runs through 4/27 at Live Bait Theater, 3914 N. Clark. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 773/972-7301. $20. www.purplebenchproductions.com

Quade Productions

Late Nite Catechism—Open run at Royal George Theatre, 1641 N. Halsted. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 312/988-9000. $30.

Put the Nuns in Charge—Open run at Royal George Theatre, 1641 N. Halsted. Thurs-Sat 7:30pm. 312/988-9000. $30.

Sunday School Cinema—Open run at Royal George Theatre, 1641 N. Halsted. Sun 3pm. 312/988-9000. $30.

RadioStar

The Awesome 80’s Prom—Open run at RadioStar, 901 W. Weed. Sat 7:30pm. 312/664-7766. $39-69.

Red Ink Theatre Company

iAlone—Runs through 5/2 at The Spot, 4437 N. Broadway. Thurs-Fri 7pm. 312/504-0574. . www.redinktheatre.com

Redmoon Theater

Boneyard Prayer—Runs through 5/11 at Redmoon Theater, 1438 W. Kinzie. Thurs-Fri 8pm, Sat 3 & 8pm, Sun 3pm. 312/850-8440. $15-35. www.redmoon.org

Salsation Theatre Company

The Devil Wears Chanklas—Runs through 5/25 at Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee. Sat 6pm, 5/23 8pm, 5/25 3pm. 847/622-0300. $12. www.salsation.com

side project

On My Parents’ One Hundredth Wedding Aniversary—Runs through 5/11 at side project, 1439 W Jarvis. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 7pm. 773/973-2150. $15. www.thesideproject.net

Stage Left Theatre

Omniscience—Runs through 5/24 at Stage Left Theatre, 3408 N. Sheffield. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 773/883-8830. $20-25. www.stagelefttheatre.com

Stockyards Theatre Project

Criminal Hearts—Runs through 5/10 at Chicago Actors Studio Theatre, 2040 N. Elston. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 2:30pm. 773/936-7896. $18. www.stockyardstheatreproject.org

Theater Oobleck

The Hysterical Alphabet—Runs through 4/27 at Chopin Theater, 1543 W. Division. Sun 7pm. 773/347-1041. $10. www.theateroobleck.com

The Strangerer—Runs through 5/11 at Chopin Theater, 1543 W. Division. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 773/347-1041. $10. www.theateroobleck.com

Theatre of Western Springs

Wit—Runs through 4/27 at Theatre of Western Springs, 4584 Hampton Ave., Western Springs. Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 2:30pm, additional performance 4/20 7:30pm. 708/246-3380. $18-20. www.TheatreWesternSprings.com

TimeLine Theatre Company

Fiorello!—Runs through 6/15 at TimeLine Theatre Company, 615 W. Wellington. Thurs 7:30pm, Fri 8pm, Sat 4 & 8pm, Sun 2pm, 5/28, 6/4 & 6/11 8pm, no performance 4/19. 773/281-8463. $25-30. www.TimeLineTheatre.com

Tommy Gun’s Garage

Tommy Gun’s Garage—Open run at Tommy Gun’s Garage, 1239 S. State. Thurs 6pm, Fri 7pm, Sat 6pm, Sun 5:30pm. 773/728-2828. $50-60. tommygunsgarage.com

Unity Players

Angel Street—Runs through 5/4 at Unity Players, 1212 W. Berwyn. Fri-Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2pm. 773/878-4747. $10.

University of Illinois-Chicago

Hamlet—Runs through 4/26 at University of Illinois-Chicago, 1044 W. Harrison. 4/26 2:30pm. $11.

UWM Peck School of the Arts

The Caucasian Chalk Circle—Runs through 4/27 at UWM Peck School of the Arts, 2400 E. Kenwood Blvd., Milwaukee, WI. Tues-Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2pm. 414/229-4308. $10. www.uwm.edu

Vex Theatre Company

Lady Windermere’s Fan—Runs through 4/27 at Elgin Art Showcase, 164 Division St. – 8^th floor, Elgin. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 630/428-4730. $15. www.vextheatre.org

Village Players Theatre

You Never Can Tell—Runs through 4/27 at Village Players Theatre, 1010 W. Madison, Oak Park. Fri-Sat 8pm, Sun 3pm. 866/764-1010. $25. www.village-players.org

Children’s

Chicago Kids Company

Sleeping Beauty—Runs through 5/16 at Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111^th. Mon-Fri 10:30am, 2/9, 3/15 & 4/12 12:30pm. 773/205-9600. $10. www.chicagokidscompany.com

DePaul University

The Giver—Runs through 5/24 at Merle Reskin Theatre, 60 E. Balbo. Tues & Thurs 10am, Sat 2pm. 312/922-1999. $8. theatreschool.depaul.edu

Drury Lane Theatre Oakbrook

The Wizard of Oz—Runs through 5/17 at Drury Lane Theatre Oakbrook, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook. Call for schedule. 630/530-0111. $9. www.drurylaneoakbrook.com

Li’l Buds Theatre Company

The Enchanted Attic—Runs through 5/18 at No Exit Caf?, 6970 N. Glenwood. Sat-Sun 3pm. 773/371-1810. $10-15. www.lilbudstheatre.org

Improv

Annoyance Theatre

Bad Touch: Unsavory Improv & The Gambino Crew—Open run at Annoyance Theatre, 4830 N. Broadway. Tues 9:30pm. 773/561-4665. $5. www.theannoyance.com

Bear Force One—Extended through 5/30 at Annoyance Theatre, 4830 N. Broadway. Fri 8pm. 773/561-4665. $15. www.theannoyance.com

Late Night Tit-Bits—Extended through 5/17 at Annoyance Theatre, 4830 N. Broadway. Sat 10pm. 773/561-4665. $15. www.theannoyance.com

Mere Fluff—Runs through 5/7 at Annoyance Theatre, 4830 N. Broadway. Wed 9:30pm. 773/561-4665. $10. www.theannoyance.com

Chicagoland & Fish Nuts—Open run at Annoyance Theatre, 4830 N. Broadway. Tues 8pm. 773/561-4665. $8. www.theannoyance.com

Messing With a Friend: An Uncensored and Joyous Romp Through Hell—Open run at Annoyance Theatre, 4830 N. Broadway. Thurs 10:30pm. 773/561-4665. $5. www.theannoyance.com

Skinprov—Extended through 5/17 at Annoyance Theatre, 4830 N. Broadway. Sat midnight. 773/561-4665. $7. www.theannoyance.com

Argos Productions

Whirled News Tonight Presents Newspeak—Open run at I.O., 3541 N. Clark. Sat 8pm. 773/880-0199. $14. www.whirlednewstonight.com

Big Dog Eat Child

Boozelegger’s Ball—Extended through 5/30 at Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee. Fri 11:30pm, no performance 5/2. 773/598-4549. $15. www.bigdogeatchild.com

Black Rock Social Club

Society Night—Open run at Black Rock, 3614 N. Damen. Third Thursday of the month 8:30pm. 773/419-4606. Free. www.myspace.com/blackrocksocialclub

Chicago Center for the Performing Arts

Bye Bye Liver—Open run at Chicago Center for the Performing Arts, 777 N. Green. Fri-Sat 9pm. 312/733-6000. $15. www.theaterland.com

ComedySportz

ComedySportz—Open run at Chicago Center for the Performing Arts, 777 N. Green. Fri 8pm, Sat 6, 8 & 10pm. 312/337-3992. $19. www.comedysportzchicago.com

Corn Productions

Attila’s Imagination Station—Runs through 5/16 at Cornservatory, 4210 N. Lincoln. Fri 8pm. 312/409-6435. $10. www.cornservatory.org

Cupid Players

Cupid Has a Heart On: A Musical Guide to Relationships—Open run at I.O., 3541 N. Clark. Sat 10:30pm. 773/880-0199. $18. www.cupidplayers.com

I.O.

The Armando Diaz Experience—Open run at I.O., 3541 N. Clark. Mon 8:30pm. 773/880-0199. $12. www.iochicago.net

Felt—Open run at I.O., 3541 N. Clark. Wed 8pm. 773/880-0199. $5. www.iochicago.net

The I.O. Musical featuring the Del Tones—Open run at I.O., 3541 N. Clark. Sat 8pm. 773/880-0199. $14. www.iochicago.net

Improvised Shakespeare Company—Open run at I.O., 3541 N. Clark. Fri 8pm. 773/880-0199. $14. www.iochicago.net

The Lottery—Open run at I.O., 3541 N. Clark. Tues 10:30pm. 773/880-0199. $1-6. www.iochicago.net

T.J. and David—Open run at I.O., 3541 N. Clark. Wed 11pm. 773/880-0199. $5. www.iochicago.net

Mutiny

Open Wound Comedy & Three Legged Race—Open run at Mutiny, 2428 N. Western. First Sun of the month 9:30pm. 773/486-7774. Free.

pH Productions

pHamily—Open run at Stage Left Theatre, 3408 N. Sheffield. Sat 11pm. 773/732-5450. $10. whatisph.com

pHamily the Musical—Open run at Stage Left Theatre, 3408 N. Sheffield. Fri 11pm. 773/732-5450. $10. whatisph.com

pHrenzy—Open run at Stage Left Theatre, 3408 N. Sheffield. Fri 12:30am. 773/732-5450. $10. whatisph.com

pHrenzy pHucked—Open run at Stage Left Theatre, 3408 N. Sheffield. Sat 12:30am. 773/732-5450. $10. whatisph.com

The Playground Theater

The Big Yellow Bus—Open run at The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted. Thurs 8pm. 773/871-3793. $10. www.the-playground.com

Grafitti—Open run at The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted. Fri 10pm. 773/871-3793. $10. www.the-playground.com

O.I.N.K!—Open run at The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted. Wed 10pm. 773/871-3793. $5. www.the-playground.com

Open Court—Open run at The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted. Thurs 10pm. 773/871-3793. $5. www.the-playground.com

Second City

The Best of Second City—Open run at Second City, 1616 N. Wells. Mon 8pm, Sat 4pm. 312/337-3992. $14-19. www.secondcity.com

Between Barack and a New Show—Open run at Second City, 1616 N. Wells. Tues-Thurs 8pm, Fri- Sat 8 & 11pm, Sun 7pm. 312/337-3992. $19-25. www.secondcity.com

Disposable Nation—Open run at Second City, 1616 N. Wells. Thurs 8pm, Fri-Sat 8 & 11pm, Sun 7pm. 312/337-3992. $18-24. www.secondcity.com

No Country for Old White Men—Open run at Second City, 1616 N. Wells. Tues-Thurs 8pm, Fri-Sat 8 & 11pm, Sun 7pm. 312/337-3992. $19-25. www.secondcity.com

Pratfall Forward—Open run at Second City, 1616 N. Wells. Thurs 8pm, Fri-Sat 8 & 11pm, Sun 7pm. 312/337-3992. $19-25. www.secondcity.com

Pratfall of Civilization—Open run at Second City, 1616 N. Wells. Thurs 8pm, Fri-Sat 8 & 11pm, Sun 7pm. 312/337-3992. $19-25. www.secondcity.com

There’s No F in Sketch

There’s No F in Sketch—Open run at Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee. Final Tuesday each month 8pm. 773/598-4549. $10.

Wicked Good Productions

Dirty Water—Open run at Town Hall Pub, 3340 N. Halsted. Fri 8pm. 773/404-2555. $10. www.dirtywaterimprov.com

Performance

Beast Women

Beast Women 2008—Runs through 5/10 at Prop Thtr, 3504 N. Elston. Fri-Sat 8pm. 773/278-1212. $15. www.beastwomenproductions.com

Briar Street Theatre

Blue Man Group—Open run at Briar Street Theatre, 3133 N. Halsted. Tues 8pm, Wed 2 & 8pm, Thurs 8pm, Fri-Sat 4, 7 & 10pm, Sun 1, 4 & 7pm. 773/348-4000. $49-59. www.blueman.com

Chicago Center for the Performing Arts

The Edge Comedy Club—Open run at Chicago Center for the Performing Arts, 777 N. Green. Wed 8:30pm, Thurs 8pm, Fri-Sat 10:30pm. 312/733-6000. $8-14. www.theaterland.com

Chicago Comedy Series

Chicago Comedy Series—Open run at Apollo Theater, 2540 N. Lincoln. Last Wed of the month at 7pm. 773/935-6100. $15.

Excalibur

Supernatural Chicago—Open run at Excalibur, 632 N. Dearborn. Fri 8pm. 312/266-1944. $25.

Heartland Studio Theatre

In One Ear Open Mike Poetry Night—Open run at Heartland Studio Theatre, 7016 N. Glenwood. Wed 10pm. $3.

Kate the Great’s Book Emporium

Comedy @ Kate’s—Open run at Kate the Great’s Book Emporium, 5550 N. Broadway. First Sat of the month 7pm. 773/561-1932. $10. www.katethegreats.com

Lakeshore Theater

Mamacita: More Tales of a Diaper Diva—Open run at Lakeshore Theater, 3175 N. Broadway. Sun 7pm. 773/472-3492. $25. www.lakeshoretheater.com

Lincoln Restaurant

Lincoln Lodge Comedy and Variety Showcase—Open run at Lincoln Restaurant, 4008 N. Lincoln. Thurs-Fri 9pm. 773/251-1539. $10. thelincolnlodge.com

Marrakech Expresso

stories, etc.—Open run at Marrakech Expresso, 4748 N. Damen. First and third Tuesday each month at 9pm. 773/271-4541. $3. www.marrakech.com

New Millennium Theatre Company

Vegas Baby—Runs through 6/6 at The Spot, 4437 N. Broadway. Fri 10:30pm. 312/458-9083. $15. www.nmtchicago.org

No Exit Caf?

Democracy Burlesque—Open run at No Exit Caf?, 6970 N. Glenwood. Second Tuesday of each month. 773/743-3355. $10.

The Playground Theater

Overstock—Open run at The Playground Theater, 3209 N. Halsted. Sun 10:30pm. 773/871-3793. $10. www.the-playground.com

Three Cat Media

Three Cat Thursday—Runs through 8/28 at Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee. Thurs 8pm. 773/598-4549. $10. threecatmedia.com

Dance

Links Hall

Coffee Dance—Open run at Links Hall, 3435 N. Sheffield. First Friday of each month at 9:30am. 773/281-0824. Free. www.linkshall.org

Staged Readings

Chicago Dramatists

DePaul University Student Plays

Staged readings of plays and scenes developed in the Theatre School of DePaul University’s playwriting program will be read.

Saturday, 4/26 at 2 p.m. at Chicago Dramatists, 1105 W. Chicago. $5. 312/633-0630. www.chicagodramatists.org

American Theater Company

Household Spirits by Mia McCullough

A newly blended family spends a nearly disastrous holiday together as they grapple with sexual harassment, the onset of schizophrenia and the early days of recovery from alcoholism. A very dark comedy about mental illness, doll molestations and household spirits.

Saturday, 5/6 at 2 p.m. at Chicago Dramatists, 1105 W. Chicago. $5. 312/633-0630. www.chicagodramatists.org†

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