Exciting Developments in the Chicago Theater Scene

Several experienced Chicago theater artists play crucial roles in “To Have and To Hold,” a new off-Broadway production. The play, written by and starring Laura Lapidus, is a modern take on “The Taming of the Shrew,” focusing on the relationship between sisters Kate and Bianca.

Yuriy Sardarov, known for “Chicago Fire” and his work with TimeLine Theatre, joins the cast alongside Tedra Millan. Joshua Altman, founder of Lily Jack Productions, is producing the play. Its opening night is set for August 23 at Chashama’s 154 Theater, 154 Christopher St. in New York.

The Chicago Shakespeare Theater celebrates its 40th anniversary, marking four decades since founder Barbara Gaines and Chicago actors staged “Henry V” on the Red Lion Pub in Lincoln Park. To commemorate this milestone, the theater is hosting a free, family-friendly birthday open house at its Navy Pier location. Attendees can enjoy activities across all performance spaces, including backstage tours, theatrical design displays, and a verse reading with artistic director Edward Hall. A silent auction features books signed by Ian McKellen, alongside a photo opportunity on the Courtyard Stage and birthday cake. Tours start at 5 p.m. and include a season preview at 7 p.m. on August 3. Reservations are available at www.chicagoshakes.com.

The Umbilical Brothers, famous for their Nickelodeon series “The Upside Down Show,” will perform at the Studebaker Theater this fall with “The Distraction.” Known for their physical comedy, suitable for all ages, they begin their U.S. tour in Chicago on September 19. Details are at www.fineartsbuilding.com.

A Red Orchid Theater announced its 2026-27 season. Celebrating its 34th season, the theater delves into “a world on fire.” It begins with the Chicago premiere of Will Arbery’s drama “Heroes of the Fourth Turning,” directed by the ensemble member dado. In winter 2027, the Chicago premiere of Keiko Green’s dark comedy “You Are Cordially Invited to the End of the World!” is directed by Terry Guest and features ensemble members dado and Sadieh Rifai. The season concludes with a world premiere adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s “Rosmersholm,” adapted by Steve Haggard and Shade Murray, directed by Murray, and featuring Sherman Edwards, Haggard, Travis A. Knight, and Natalie West.

Rivendell Theatre announced the fall world premiere cast of Eliza Bent’s play “Bonnie’s Last Flight,” featuring Rebecca Spence, Eric Slater, Jessica Ervin, Glenn Obrero, and Paul Oakley Stovall.

The Goodman Theatre’s “Theater of the Mind” by David Byrne and Mala Gaonka is ongoing, offering a small-audience experience at the Reid Murdoch Building in Chicago.

According to Critic Chris Jones:

The “Theater of the Mind” is an ongoing production at the Goodman in the Reid Murdoch Building. “Octet” remains until August 2. “Pandemonium, Please Hold” continues on the Second City Mainstage. “Leopoldstadt” runs through August 16 at Writers Theatre. “Champions of Magic” is available until August 23 at the Studebaker Theater. “A Little Night Music” is ongoing through August 9 at Marriott Theatre. “Iceboy!” ends on August 16 at the Goodman Theatre.

Chris Jones can be contacted at [email protected].