Chicago Theater Updates and Events

Celebrations and Screenings at the Obama Presidential Center

The new Obama Presidential Center will host a free sing-along screening of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Broadway hit “Hamilton.” Part of the “You Are America” summer series, these events honor America’s 250th birthday. “Hamilton” marks the first outdoor Movies on the Plaza event. For reservations, visit obama.org. On August 11, Disney’s “Encanto,” featuring music by Miranda, will be screened.

Changes at Chicago Shakespeare Theater

Chicago Shakespeare Theater recently experienced layoffs in its casting office and other areas. These tough changes, according to a spokesman, align with plans for the next season. While certain roles were eliminated, new positions were introduced, particularly in development, leading to a slight reduction in overall staff numbers. Additionally, the theater is renegotiating its rent at Navy Pier.

Advancements at Black Ensemble Theater

Construction continues on Black Ensemble Theater’s new studio space at 4450 N. Clark St. The second-floor expansion includes a spacious black-box theater alongside a rehearsal room. Founder Jackie Taylor anticipates an October opening, focusing on new plays and musicals.

Upcoming Broadway Productions

Former Steppenwolf Theatre artistic director Anna D. Shapiro is set to direct François Arnaud, David Corenswet, and Yvonne Strahovski in Richard Greenberg’s “Three Days of Rain” on Broadway in February. Shapiro originally directed the play in Chicago in 1999.

Levi Holloway’s “Paranormal Activity,” which premiered at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, will officially open on Broadway on August 25, with previews starting August 14 at the August Wilson Theatre.

Events at “The Hand & The Eye”

The Hand & The Eye, housed in the former Lowry’s the Prime Rib building, offers a new off-peak option. A happy hour on Friday afternoons through Labor Day includes a show with three magicians for $65, excluding cocktails. Doors open at 4 p.m. and the show ends by 5:15 p.m.

Chicago Theatrical Updates

Milwaukee Repertory Theater has announced eight new trustees, including former TCG president Ben Cameron. Tickets are now available for “Mexodus” at the Studebaker Theater.

Lyric Opera of Chicago appointed Kate Brueggemann as its new chief development officer. She joins from the Brookfield Zoo Chicago.

The Paramount Theatre in Aurora will open its September season with “Mean Girls,” directed by Devon Hayakawa. Opening night is September 4.

Film Production: “Holiday Touchdown”

The Hallmark Channel is filming “Holiday Touchdown: A Bears Love Story” this summer. Watch for Chicago actors in Bears gear, with settings potentially including Soldier Field and Arlington Heights.

Recommended Shows

• “Theater of the Mind” at the Goodman
• “Job” until July 3 at Writers Theatre
• “Octet” from July 15 to August 2 by Raven Theatre at the Goodman
• “Pandemonium, Please Hold” at Second City Mainstage
• “Damn Yankees” until July 5 at Theo Ubique Theatre
• “Leopoldstadt” until August 16 at Writers Theatre
• “Untitled Vampire Play” until July 12 by Lookingglass Theatre
• “Champions of Magic” until August 23 at the Studebaker Theater
• “A Little Night Music” until August 9 at the Marriott Theatre
• “Iceboy!” until August 9 at the Goodman Theatre

For more updates and reviews, contact Chris Jones, Tribune critic at [email protected].