Fleetwood -Jourdain Theatre, an award-winning theatre company that has been thrilling audiences with over four decades of unique, inspirational, and invigorating Black American and African Diaspora-centered storytelling, has announced the cast and production team for the final production of its 2026 season. THE NICETIES, a two-character play by Eleanor Burgess, follows a 20-year-old Black college student in a meeting with her white professor to discuss the student's term paper about slavery's effect on the American Revolution. The paper's thesis is that the revolution would not have succeeded without the contributions of black slaves. The professor disagrees, and what begins as a polite clash in perspectives explodes into an urgent debate about race, history, and power. 

Fleetwood-Jourdain Producing Artistic Director Tim Rhoze, who will direct the play and design the set, announced his cast today. Appearing as the student, Zoe, will be Georgerinna Farley, whose stage and television credits include IN THE CONTINUUM for Pegasus Theatre and SEND HELP for AMC Networks.  Janine, the professor, will be played by Jesi Mullins, who is currently appearing in ADVANCE MAN for Strawdog Theatre Company, and has extensive television credits that include CHICAGO MED. THE NICETIES will be performed at the Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre in the Noyes Cultural Arts Center, 927 Noyes Street in Evanston, from October 31 through November 15. 

The world premiere of THE NICETIES, directed by Chicago's Kimberly Senior, was co-produced during the 2018-2019 season by the Huntington Theatre Company in Boston, Massachusetts; Manhattan Theatre Club in New York, New York; and McCarter Theatre Center in Princeton, New Jersey. THE NEW YORK TIMES said it was "a bristling, provocative debate play about race and privilege in the United States, and it begs to be argued with." DC THEATER ARTS called it "a brilliant and important play." 
 
The production team for FJT'S THE NICETIES, in addition to Rhoze as Director and Set Designer, includes Brenden Marble (Lighting Designer), Rick Sims (Sound Designer), Kate Parker-Burrows (Costume Designer), Shane Rogers (Technical Director), Phil Timberlake (Vocal Coach), Bria Walker-Rhoze (Artistic Associate, Dramaturg), Tara Malpass (Stage Manager), and Joe Ciresi (Assistant Stage Manager).
 
Tickets to THE NICETIES are $33.00, Seniors $22.00, Students $10.00  at the box office on the day of performance with ID. Tickets are on sale at www.fjtheatre.com.
 
LISTING INFORMATION
 
THE NICETIES
by Eleanor Burgess 
Directed by Tim Rhoze
October 31 – November 15, 2026
Saturdays at 7 pm, Sundays at 3 pm
Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre in the Noyes Cultural Arts Center
927 Noyes St., Evanston
Tickets $33.00, Students $10.00. On sale at www.fjtheatre.com
Phone 847-866-5914
 
Zoe, a Black student at a liberal arts college, is called into her white professor's office to discuss her paper about slavery's effect on the American Revolution. What begins as a polite clash in perspectives explodes into an urgent debate about race, history, and power.
 
BIOS

Eleanor Burgess (playwright). In addition to THE NICETIES, Eleanor Burgess' plays include WIFE OF A SALESMAN, START DOWN, CHILL, SPARKS FLY UPWARD, and GALILEE, 34.  Her work has been produced at theaters across the United States, including Manhattan Theatre Club, South Coast Rep, Geffen Playhouse, McCarter Theatre Center, Huntington Theatre Company, Writers Theatre, Milwaukee Rep, Merrimack Repertory Theatre, Geva Theatre Center, InterAct Theatre, Portland Stage, the Alliance Theatre and the Contemporary American Theatre Festival, as well as the Finborough Theatre in London. She has also written for film and television, including work on PERRY MASON for HBO, WE CRASHED for Apple TV+, INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE for AMC, and screenplays for Bad Robot, Amblin, and Anonymous Content. Originally from Massachusetts, she studied history at Yale College and Dramatic Writing at NYU/Tisch.
  
Tim Rhoze (Director, Artistic Director) Tim Rhoze has been the Producing Artistic Director of Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre since 2010. His directing credits include: IN THE CONTINUUM, GEE'S BEND, THE BALDWIN | GIOVANNI EXPERIENCE, PASS OVER, HONEYPOT: BLACK WOMEN WHO LOVE WOMEN, UNTIL THE FLOOD, FOR COLORED GIRLS WHO HAVE CONSIDERED SUICIDE/ WHEN THE RAINBOW IS ENUF, 1619: THE JOURNEY OF A PEOPLE, THIS BITTER EARTH, , THE LIGHT, AMERICAN SON, HOME, TWILIGHT: LOS ANGELES 1992, THE MEETING, FIRES IN THE MIRROR, BLACK BALLERINA (co-writer),  NUTCRACKER(ISH), CROWNS, HAVING OUR SAY, FROM THE MISSISSIPPI DELTA, WOZA ALBERT!, GOING TO ST. IVES, SINGLE BLACK FEMALE, A SONG FOR CORETTA, YELLOWMAN, SWEET, LADY DAY AT EMERSON BAR & GRILL, BEAR COUNTRY, NOBODY, FENCES, PIANO LESSON, AIN'T MISBEHAVIN, K2, THE GLASS MENAGERIE, and others. Tim is also the writer/director of WHY NOT ME? A SAMMY DAVIS JR. STORY, and MAYA'S LAST POEM, both produced at FJT; and BLACK BALLERINA, produced at FJT and Pittsburgh Public Theatre. He was also co-writer and director of THE BALDWIN | GIOVANNI EXPERIENCE and A HOME ON THE LAKE. His performances in August Wilson's PIANO LESSON (1997) and JOE TURNER'S COME AND GONE (2024) at the Goodman Theatre were nominated for Jeff Awards.
 
Georgerinna Farley (Zoe) is an actor in the Chicago area who is passionate about real, raw, and authentic stories. She holds an MFA in Acting from The Theatre School at DePaul University, as well as a BA in Theatre Performance from Rhode Island College, where she became a part of the Lin-Manuel Miranda Family Fellowship. Her work spans across stage and screen, including SEND HELP (AMC Networks), IN THE CONTINUUM (Abigail) at Pegasus Theatre, JULIUS CAESAR (Mark Antony), and RENT (Mimi Marquez). 
 
Jesi Mullins (Janine) is delighted to make her Fleetwood-Jourdain debut! Theatre: ADVANCE MAN (Strawdog Theatre), RACECAR RACECAR RACECAR (Bramble Theatre Company), A CHRISTMAS CAROL (Metropolis), FAIRVIEW (Definition Theatre), MARYS SEACOLE (Griffin Theatre), THE SECRETARIES (First Floor Theater), BACHELOR - THE UNAUTHORIZED PARODY MUSICAL, LOVE ACTUALLY? THE UNAUTHORIZED MUSICAL PARODY (Apollo Theater), MACBETH (Spectrum Shakespeare), EXIT THE KING, NEIGHBORHOOD 3: REQUISITION OF DOOM (The Theatre School at DePaul). TV: CHICAGO MED (NBC). Film: NOTHING'S GOING ON WITH ME AND SANDRA (Big C Creative), RETURN TO START (908 Media). Co-host of FYI: The Murphy Brown Podcast (featured on CNN's TV ON THE EDGE). MFA, The Theatre School at DePaul University. Jesi is a certified actor combatant and dialect coach.
 
ABOUT FLEETWOOD-JOURDAIN THEATRE 

Founded in 1979, Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre is a professional, award-winning theatre company that has been thrilling audiences with over four decades of unique, inspirational, and invigorating Black American and African Diaspora-centered storytelling. The company has been honored by the Black Theatre Alliance/Ira Aldridge Awards and is frequently listed as a top-rated Chicago theatre company. From original plays to the best of Broadway, Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre has remained committed to supplying the very best in theatre. "Umoja!! ....Working Together in Unity" is the foundation from which FJT began and continues to thrive!
 
It is our mission to present powerful, thought-provoking, Theater Arts programming with a commitment to diversity and creative excellence. We are dedicated to providing a nurturing and creative environment for directors, playwrights, actors, set, light, and costume designers. In this positive environment, they can further develop their creative skills and share their artistic expressions. The Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre is funded by the City of Evanston and in part by the Illinois Arts Council, A State Agency.

The Goodman wraps its 2025/2026 Centennial Season, an unprecedented line-up marking the 100^th anniversary of Chicago's flagship not-for-profit theater, as the most successful in its history. Today, the theater released its "A Century of Impact" report, detailing milestone programming and attendance figures (a full annual report, including audited financials, will be published at year's end).  Led by Walter Artistic Director Susan V. Booth and Executive Director John Collins, the season drew more audiences than ever, topping 300,000—with 57% attending The Goodman for the first time—to 4,000 performances and events. The works in the 15-production season, curated by Booth, earned widespread critical and audience acclaim: 11 extended productions, 290 sold-out performances, while the world-premiere musical Iceboy! Or, The Completely Untrue Story of How Eugene O'Neill Came to Write The Iceman Cometh became the theater's all-time best-attended, best-selling production. Attendees hailed from 61 countries beyond the U.S. with audiences from 5,837 unique zip codes.

In addition, the Goodman broke new ground transforming a 15,000 square-foot, in-the-raw space for Theater of the Mind, Academy, Grammy and Tony Award-winning artist David Byrne's immersive work, drawing 63% first-time Goodman attendees. Chicago resident magician Dennis Watkins continued into his third year at The Magic Parlour, in partnership with The Goodman and Petterino's, hosting 163 sold-out performances and expanding his roster by welcoming nine guest artists. Beyond the stage, The Goodman offered 100 Free Acts of Theater—a year-long collaboration with 48 community partners at creative organizations in all 50 Chicago wards—drawing more than 20,000 people, presented in partnership with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE). Expanded Theater for the Very Young programming drew nearly 5,000 children and caregivers, with nearly 13,000 people of all ages engaging in free and low-cost Education and Engagement programming. Goodman Theatre Centennial Season leadership included Chair of The Goodman Board of Trustees is Marsha Cruzan; Women's Board President is Diane Landgren; and Kelli Garcia as President of the Scenemakers, The Goodman's young professionals board.

"One hundred years ago, Chicago gave us a stage. Over the past century, this city has given us so much more—welcoming generations of artists with bold ideas, filling our theaters with laughter, applause and conversation, challenging us to tell stories that reflect who we are, who we've been and who we might yet become," said Booth and Collins in a joint statement. "There are many ways to measure success; for us, it's ultimately about impact. We're proud to have reached more audiences through more programming in more communities this year than ever before. As theater leadership, we deeply feel the gratitude and responsibility that comes with a 100-year legacy. We look to continue The Goodman's story in our second century with the greatest ambition to deepen our reach, welcome more voices, and build stronger connections."

PRODUCTIONS, EVENTS AND OFFERINGS IN THE CENTENNIAL SEASON 

ALBERT THEATRE (856-SEAT PROSCENIUM STAGE) PRODUCTIONS

Ashland Avenue 
By Lee Kirk, Directed by Susan V. Booth 
Starring Jenna Fischer 
September 6 – October 5, 2025 (extended through October 19) | A World Premiere

A Christmas Carol (48^th annual production) 
By Charles Dickens, Directed by Malkia Stampley 
Starring Christopher Donahue as Ebenezer Scrooge 
November 15 – December 31, 2025

Holiday
Adapted by Richard Greenberg, Based on the play by Philip Barry, Directed by Robert Falls
January 31 – March 1, 2026 (extended through March 8) | A World-Premiere Adaptation 

August Wilson's Ma Rainey's Black Bottom 
Directed by Chuck Smith, Associate Director and Music Director Harry J. Lennix 
March 28 – April 26, 2026 (extended through May 3)

Iceboy! or, The Completely Untrue Story of How Eugene O'Neill Came to Write The Iceman Cometh 
Music by Mark Hollman, Lyrics by Mark Hollman and Jay Reiss, Book by Erin Quinn Purcell and Jay Reiss 
Directed by Marc Bruni, Choreographed by JoAnn M. Hunter 
Starring Megan Mullally and Nick Offerman 
June 9 – July 19, 2026 (extended through August 16) | A World-Premiere Musical

OWEN THEATRE (350-SEAT FLEXIBLE STAGE) PRODUCTIONS

Revolution(s) 
By Zayd Ayers Dohrn, Music and Lyrics by Tom Morello, Directed by Steve H. Broadnax, III 
October 4 – November 9, 2025 (extended through November 23) | A World-Premiere Musical

New Stages Festival (21^st annual event) January 11 – 18, 2026 
FEAST! by Calamity West, Directed by Susan V. Booth  
Pennies by Hansol Jung, Directed by Patricia McGregor 
This Part of His Life Blooms by Christina Anderson, Directed by Malkia Stampley 
The Audience Unseen by Ike Holter, Directed by Gus Menary, Dramaturgy by Sarah Slight

The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao 
By Marco Antonio Rodriguez, Adapted from the novel by Junot Díaz, Directed by Wendy Mateo 
February 21 – April 5, 2026 (extended through April 12) | A World-Premiere Adaptation

Covenant 
By York Walker, Directed by Malkia Stampley 
May 2 – 31, 2026 (extended through June 7) | A Chicago Premiere

Raven Theatre's production of Dave Malloy's Octet 
Directed by Keira Fromm 
July 15 – 26, 2026 (extended through August 2)

TJ and Dave 
Starring TJ Jagodowski and David Pasquesi, with special musical guest Ike Reilly 
July 30-31 and August 1

THEATER FOR THE VERY YOUNG PRODUCTIONS

Splish Splash: A Day on the Lake 
Directed by Ellie Levine and Jamal Howard, created in collaboration with students from Total Child Preschool 
February 28 – March 15, 2026 (extended through March 22)

The Lizard y El Sol 
Presented as part of the Chicago Park District's Night Out in the Parks Series, supported by the Mayor's Office and the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) 
Co-Directed by Jamal Howard and Raquel Torre 
July 22 – August 9, 2026 (extended through August 15)  
Appeared at 12 Chicago Parks District locations and four (4) Chicago Public Libraries

OFF-SITE PRODUCTIONS

Theater of the Mind
Created by David Byrne and Mala Gaonkar, Directed by Andrew Scoville  
Appearing at 333 N. LaSalle in an open run (performances began March 11, 2026)

Dennis Watkins' The Magic Parlour  
Produced in partnership with Goodman Theatre and Petterino's
Appearing at 50 W. Randolph in its third season, in an open run (tickets on sale through December 31)

EVENTS AND PARTNERSHIPS

100 Free Acts of Theater  
In partnership with the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) 
Summer 2025 – Summer 2026

Sweetest Season: A Gathering of Indigenous Creativity 
In partnership with Gichigamiin Indigenous Nations Museum 
August 15

THEATER FOR A LIFETIME

The Goodman's Education and Engagement programs cater to theatergoers at every stage of life. During the Centennial Season, nearly 13,000 people participated in nearly 200 free and low-cost programs, workshops and performances—including 4,490 children and caregivers through Theater for the Very Young, more than 4,800 students and teachers through school-based programming and nearly 900 older adults through GeNarrations. Goodman Education and Engagement programs include:

For Young Children & Families – Second Saturdays; Theater for the Very Young 
Students & Teachers – Pages; School Matinee Series; Stage Chemistry 
Teens – Musical Theater Intensive; PlayBuild Youth Intensive; Teen Studio; Youth Arts Council 
Adults – ACTivation; CONTEXT; GeNarrations

CENTENNIAL SEASON SUPPORT

The Goodman hosted two major fundraisers that together raided $1.6 million in support of the theater's Education and Engagement programs. In October 2025, stage and screen star Jenna Fischer shared her thoughts about formative experiences in the arts at the annual Education and Engagement Benefit, co-chaired by Elizabeth Balthrop and Anne Van Wart; Kathleen Cowie and Melissa Donaldson were Education and Engagement Committee Co-Chairs. In May 2026, Emmy, SAG and Critics Choice Award nominee Tituss Burgess dazzled audiences with a live show, followed by dinner and dancing at the Goodman Gala. The event was co-chaired by Wendy Krimins, Heather Poladian and Heather Zimmerman with Trustee Co-Chair Troy Zimmerman and Benefits Events Leadership Chair Joan E. Clifford, Board of Trustees Past Chair and Life Trustee.

The Goodman is grateful to its Centennial Season Sponsors, including Leading Sponsors Paul M. Angell Family Foundation; Allstate Insurance Company; Helen Gurley Brown BOLD Circle; Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events; Chicago Department of Planning and Development; Edgerton Foundation New Play Award; Julius N. Frankel Foundation; Illinois Office of Tourism; JPMorgan Chase & Co.; The Elizabeth Morse Charitable Trust; Elizabeth Morse Genius Charitable Trust; Northern Trust Bank; Alfred P. Sloan Foundation; and The Shubert Foundation. Additional Support by Abbott Labs; BMO; Illinois Arts Council; National Endowment for the Arts; Petterino's; PNC; Polk Bros Foundation; Pritzker Pucker Family Foundation; and The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation. Individual Sponsors include Susan and James Annable; Roger and Julie Baskes; Joan and Robert Clifford; Patricia Cox; Julie M. Danis and Paul F. Donahue; Christopher C. Dewey; Shawn M. Donnelley and Christopher M. Kelly; Paul Dykstra and Spark Cremin; Albert and Maria Goodman; The Kenneth Sawyer Goodman Family; Elaine R. Leavenworth; Carol Prins and John Hart; Alice and John Sabl; and Kimbra and Mark Walter. Impact Sponsors include Marsha Cruzan and Tom McGinnis; Drs. Robert and Frances Del Boca; David and Alexandra Fox; Diane Landgren; and Lorrayne and Steve Weiss.

ABOUT THE GOODMAN

Since 1925, The Goodman has been a theatrical home for artists and a gathering space for Chicagoland, where bold stories spark connection, conversation and change. Now, as it enters its second century, The Goodman builds on that legacy with an eye toward the future. Under the leadership of Walter Artistic Director Susan V. Booth and Executive Director John Collins, the theater continues to champion new work—following hundreds of plays developed and a national reputation for commissioning and premiering original stories by living writers—while reimagining classics and produce large-scale musicals.

But The Goodman's reach today extends beyond its home in the heart of the Loop. From the intimate magic of The Magic Parlour, now in its third year, to the boundary-pushing world of Theater of the Mind—an immersive experience that blurs the lines between science, storytelling and sensation—and from citywide initiatives like 100 Free Acts of Theater to partnerships with artists and companies across Chicago and around the world, The Goodman is expanding what theater can be, and where it can live.

At its core, The Goodman is driven by a belief that a more empathetic, more connected city is built one story at a time. Generation-spanning productions and programs offer theater for a lifetime—from babies and young children to teens, adults and seniors—including Theater for the Very Young (ages 0–5) and the beloved annual A Christmas Carol, which has welcomed audiences for five decades. Education and Engagement programs, led by Clifford Director Jared Bellot and based in the Alice Rapoport Center, use the tools of theater to spark imagination, reflection and belonging—reaching thousands each year, the majority from underserved communities.

With nearly 200 world or American premieres, two Pulitzer Prizes, 22 Tony Awards and nearly 200 Joseph Jefferson Awards, The Goodman remains a defining force in American theater—and the first to produce all 10 plays of August Wilson's American Century Cycle. The theater also frequently serves as a production partner—from national and international companies to Chicago's Off-Loop theaters—to help amplify a wide range of theatrical voices.

Founded by William O. Goodman and his family in memory of playwright Kenneth Sawyer Goodman, the theater carries forward a legacy of artistic ambition and civic generosity. With the help of Mr. Goodman's descendants—Albert Ivar Goodman and his late mother, Edith-Marie Appleton—that spirit continues to shape its future as The Goodman expands its impact across Chicago and beyond. Marsha Cruzan is Chair of the Goodman Theatre Board of Trustees; Diane Landgren is Women's Board President; and Christopher Way is president of the Scenemakers Board for Young Professionals.

The Goodman stands on the unceded homelands of the Council of the Three Fires—the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi Nations—and acknowledges the many other Nations for whom this land now called Chicago has long been home, including the Myaamia, Ho-Chunk, Menominee, Sac and Fox, Peoria, Kaskaskia, Wea, Kickapoo, and Mascouten. The Goodman is proud to partner with the Gichigamiin Indigenous Nations Museum (Gichigamiin-Museum.org) and the Center for Native Futures (CenterForNativeFutures.org)—organizations devoted to honoring Indigenous stories, preserving cultural memory, and deepening public understanding.

Producer Jeffrey Seller and Broadway In Chicago have announced the world-premiere of the new musical THE PRINCESS BRIDE will begin performances in Chicago next summer at the James M. Nederlander Theatre, from July 19-August 22, 2027.

A miraculous blend of sword fights and satire, absurd fun and true romance, THE PRINCESS BRIDE has been both a beloved novel and celebrated film. Now, as you wish, it comes to enchanting life as a Broadway musical.

Like many timeless stories, this one asks the eternal question: Why does life have to be so complicated?

Journey to Florin, where a sweet-natured giant, a six-fingered (well technically 11-fingered) scoundrel, a vengeance-obsessed Spaniard, and an overconfident meanie all conspire to make things incredibly difficult for two young lovers just trying to live happily ever after. Prepare to die laughing and fall in love all at the same time, all over again.

The creative team features a book by Tony Award winner Bob Martin (The Drowsy Chaperone) and Tony-nominated Rick Elice (Jersey Boys), music and lyrics by Oscar-winning composers Kristen Anderson-Lopez (Frozen) and EGOT winner Robert Lopez (Frozen, The Book of Mormon), direction by Tony Award winner Alex Timbers (Moulin Rouge!) and choreography by Tony Award winner Andy Blankenbuehler (Hamilton, In the Heights).

Producer Jeffrey Seller is one of the most successful American producers of our time. He produced the Tony Award–winning musicals Rent, Avenue Q, In the Heights, and Hamilton. His shows have garnered twenty-two Tony Awards, including four for Best Musical. Jeffrey is the only producer to have mounted two Pulitzer Prize–winning musicals—Hamilton and Rent. He also revolutionized theater accessibility with the $20 ticket lottery for Rent, making theater affordable for all. 

The Princess Bride is based on the novel and Motion Picture written by William Goldman and the Motion Picture executive produced by Norman Lear and directed by Rob Reiner.

TICKET INFORMATION
THE PRINCESS BRIDE will be part of the next Broadway In Chicago season, on sale next month. Group tickets for 10 or more are on sale now by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710 or by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Individual tickets will go on sale at a later date. For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 26 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country. A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, James M. Nederlander Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at The Auditorium.

For more information and tickets, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.
 

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Marriott Theatre, Chicagoland's longest-running musical theatre, presents its 2027 subscription season featuring five thrilling and memorable musicals: Pippin, A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder, Almost Heaven, Les Misérables and The Wiz. The season also includes three Theatre for Young Audiences productions and an engaging concert lineup. Beginning in 2027, Marriott Theatre will introduce new weekend performance times, with Saturday shows at 2pm and 7:30pm and Sunday performances at 1pm and 6pm.

The 2027 season kicks off with Stephen Schwartz's iconic musical masterpiece, Pippin, directed and choreographed by Jeff Award nominee Amber Mak (Marriott Theatre: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story, Disney's Finding Nemo). With an infectiously unforgettable score from four-time Grammy winner, three-time Oscar winner, Tony winner and musical theatre giant, Stephen Schwartz (Wicked and Godspell), Pippin is the story of one young man's journey to be extraordinary. Packed with iconic songs like "Corner of the Sky," "Magic to Do," "No Time at All" and "Morning Glow." Pippin starts performances January 27. 

Next on stage is A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder, the knock-'em-dead, uproarious hit filled with unforgettable music and unending hilarity, directed and choreographed by Katie Spelman (Marriott Theatre: Come From Away, The Music Man). When the charming and penniless Monty Navarro discovers he's ninth in line for an earldom, he figures his chances of outliving his predecessors are slight and sets off to speed up the line of succession by using a great deal of charm... and a dash of murder. Best Musical Winner: Tony Award, Drama Desk Award, Outer Critics Circle Award, and Drama League Award. A wickedly witty romp of disguises, dalliances, and delightfully untimely deaths, starring Marriott Theatre favorite Alex Goodrich as the ENTIRE D'Ysquith Family! A Gentleman's Guide to Love and Murder starts performances April 14.

For summer, celebrate the legendary life and legacy of John Denver with Almost Heaven: Songs of John Denver, directed by James Vásquez (Marriott Theatre: In the Heights, Always Something There..., Damn Yankees). American musical icon John Denver's timeless melodies echo from Rocky Mountain highs to the Green Mountains of Vermont. Set against a backdrop of America in the late 1960s and early 1970s, Almost Heaven celebrates the life and times of this down-to-earth music man with dozens of chart-topping hits including: "Rocky Mountain High," "Sunshine on My Shoulders," "Annie's Song," "Take Me Home, Country Roads," "Leaving on a Jet Plane," "Calypso" and many more. Almost Heaven is a theatrical salute to the music that inspires us to dream of new roads and new destinations. Almost Heaven: Songs of John Denver starts performances June 16.

The epic Les Misérables takes the stage in 2027, directed by Jessica Fisch (Marriott Theatre: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Come from Away, Catch Me If You Can) and choreographed by Marriott Theatre Associate Artistic Director Katie Johannigman (Marriott Theatre: A Little Night Music, The Magic School Bus). Set against the backdrop of 19th century France, Les Misérables tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption – a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. This epic and uplifting story has become one of the most celebrated musicals in theatrical history. The magnificent score of Les Misérables includes the songs "I Dreamed a Dream," "On My Own," "Bring Him Home," "One Day More," "Master of the House" and many more.  Packing an emotional wallop that has thrilled audiences all over the world, its powerful affirmation of the human spirit has made Les Misérables a cherished masterpiece. Les Misérables starts performances August 25.

When the holidays roll around, "ease on down the road" to the beloved Broadway gem, The Wiz, directed and choreographed by Deidre Goodwin (Marriott Theatre: director/choreographer of Heartbreak Hotel and Beehive, choreographer of Catch Me If You Can). Infusing L. Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz with a dazzling mix of rock, gospel and soul music, this timeless tale of Dorothy's adventures through the land of Oz is an effervescent explosion of music, dance, magic, and delight. Winner of seven Tony Awards including Best Musical, The Wiz is a fun, fresh, family-friendly musical. The Wiz starts performances November 10.

Marriott Theatre's commitment to family entertainment continues with a vibrant lineup of Theatre for Young Audiences productions throughout 2027. The season kicks off with the action-packed musical adventure The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical, directed by Derek VanBarham and choreographed by Tommy Rivera-Vega, running February 19 through March 27. Young theatergoers will then delight in the heartwarming Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile: The Musical (a pilot production of the Theatre For Young Audiences edition), directed by Christopher Llewyn Ramirez and choreographed by Nich O'Neil, from July 9 through August 8. The final TYA production brings a fresh take on a classic fairy tale with the world premiere of Hansel & Gretel: Off The Grid, written by Johanna McKenzie Miller, Michael Mahler and Steven Strafford, directed by Miller and choreographed by Mandy Modic, running November 27 through January 9.

The 2027 Artists Lounge Live Concert Series will bring to the stage Hello Again: Eric Gutman Sings Neil Diamond on March 15-17, Good Vibrations: Michael Mahler Band Salutes The Beach Boys on September 13-14, Dream Lover: The Music of Bobby Darin and Connie Francis, starring Devin DeSantis and Anastasia Arnold on December 6-7, and Rockin' Down the Clock: 100 Years of Hits! on December 31.

Beginning Wednesday, September 16, audiences can purchase 2027 season subscriptions and single tickets to all upcoming shows and concerts. Current subscribers: your renewal packets will land in your mailbox shortly. Single ticket prices begin at $78 for mainstage productions, and $19.75 for Theatre for Young Audiences (plus tax and handling fees). For more information on Marriott Theatre or to purchase tickets to the current hit musical, Come From Away, please visit MarriottTheatre.com or follow the theatre on social media @marriotttheatre.

ABOUT MARRIOTT THEATRE

Founded in 1975, Marriott Theatre is known for presenting new and classic musicals, often direct from Broadway and has staged more than 260 productions before an estimated 12,000,000 people in its history. Marriott Theatre has received more than 600 Joseph Jefferson Award nominations and has employed more than 6,000 artists. In addition to the presentation of classic American musical theatre, Marriott Theatre has become a driving force in the development of original and re-imagined musicals.

Pippin and A Gentleman's Guide to Love & Murder are presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

Almost Heaven is present by arrangement with Aruba Productions.

Les Misérables is presented through special by arrangement with Music Theatre International and Cameron Mackintosh LTD.

The Wiz and The Lightning Thief are presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals.

Kokandy Productions is pleased to conclude its 2026 Season with A Clockwork Orange: A Play with Music, a live adaptation of Anthony Burgess's dystopian novel that brings the cult-classic "horrorshow" to visceral, pulsing, terrifying life. Directed by Producing Artistic Director Derek Van Barham, with music direction and original music by Sean Ellis and choreography by Breon Arzell , A Clockwork Orange will play November 5, 2026 – January 10, 2027 on The Chopin Theatre Mainstage, 1543 W. Division St. in Chicago. Tickets are on sale now at kokandyproductions.com or bit.ly/ClockworkChicago. 

A Clockwork Orange will be led by Reilly Oh as the charismatic yet sadistic Alex DeLarge. Hannah Antman (Pete), Jamille Calixte (Georgie) and Ben Harmon (Dim) will portray Alex's band of Droogs, with Robert Hunter Bry, Colin Callahan, Sydney Genco, Jaiden Lindsey, Tommy Thams and Lizzie Williams creating an "ultra-violent" world of doctors, officers, government officials, inmates, milk bar patrons and more. Stone TeSelle will understudy Alex Delarge, with swings including Jenni Babisch, Jeff Menezes and Skye Steury.

"Having both the beloved book and the cult classic Kubrick film as references gives us even more opportunity to surprise our audience and subvert expectations," says Producing Artistic Director Derek Van Barham. "Immersing the audience in the dystopian decadence of Alex and his droogs resonates differently in 2026, when choice and individual expression are both under attack. At this moment, should we be willing to sacrifice any part of what makes us uniquely ourselves? What first appears to be a story about curing evil in a rebellious teen may also double as a cautionary tale about using fear to create a more socially acceptable kind of monster."

About the Production

A Clockwork Orange lures audiences into a glass-edged, testosterone-filled underworld of a dystopian future. The explosive story of little Alex and his rebellious gang of Droogs is a groundbreaking and twisted tale teeming with sexuality and "a bit of the old ultra-violence." As hauntingly relevant today as when Burgess's book first published in 1962 and when Stanley Kubrick's cult classic film caused a stir in 1971, A Clockwork Orange is an unapologetic celebration of the human condition. And Beethoven.

The production team includes Eric Luchen (Scenic Design), Rachel Sypniewski (Costume Design), G "Max" Maxin IV (Lighting Design), Matt Reich (Sound Design), Syd Genco (Makeup Design), Keith Ryan (Wig Design), Kirsten Baity (Intimacy Director), Shane Roberie (Casting Director), Nicholas Reinhart (Production Manager), Amelia Osborn (Associate Production Manager), Corbin Paulino (Stage Manager), Scot Kokandy (Executive Producer) and Derek Van Barham (Producing Artistic Director).

PRODUCTION DETAILS:

Title: A Clockwork Orange: A Play with Music

Playwright: Anthony Burgess, adapted from his novel

Director: Derek Van Barham

Music Director and Original Music: Sean Ellis

Choreographer: Breon Arzell

Location: Chopin Theatre Mainstage, 1543 W. Division St., Chicago

Dates: Previews: Thursday, November 5 – Friday, November 20, 2026

Regular run: Sunday, November 2, 2026 – Sunday, January 10, 2027

Curtain Times: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7 pm; Sundays at 5 pm. Please note: there will not be a performance on Thursday, November 25 (Thanksgiving); Thursday, December 24 (Christmas Eve), Friday, December 25 (Christmas Day), Thursday, December 31 (New Year's Eve) or Friday, January 1 (New Year's Day); there will be added performances on Wednesday, November 25 at 7 pm; Tuesday, December 22 at 7 pm, Wednesday, December 23 at 7 pm, Tuesday, December 29 at 7 pm and Wednesday, December 30 at 7 pm.

Tickets: Previews $28.52* general admission, $39.19* reserved seating. Regular run $55.20* general admission, $65.87* reserved seating. Students/seniors $44.52*. There will be a limited number of lower-priced tickets (with code ARTIST) available to artists for each performance. Tickets are on sale now at kokandyproductions.com or bit.ly/ClockworkChicago. *Ticket prices include processing fees

About the Artists

Derek Van Barham (Director) is the Producing Artistic Director of Kokandy Productions. Directing credits include Children of Eden in Concert (Broadway In Chicago), Jekyll & Hyde (BIC/Kokandy), Amélie, Into the Woods, Alice by Heart, Sweeney Todd, American Psycho, Head Over Heels (4 Jeff Awards and 3 Jeff nominations, Kokandy); Spring Awakening (Flint Rep); Rock of Ages (Metropolis); The View Upstairs (Circle Theatre); Miracle by Dan Savage, Poseidon (Hell in a Handbag), Natasha Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812, Carrie, Bat Boy, Merrily We Roll Along (CCPA/Roosevelt University). Choreography credits include Evil Dead (Jeff nomination), Coraline the Musical, Ghost Quartet and Shockheaded Peter (Black Button Eyes). He was previously named one of Windy City Times' 30 Under 30, and one of Newcity Magazine's 50 Players 2024 and 2026. MFA: CCPA/Roosevelt University. IG: @dvbarham

Sean Ellis (Music Director, Original Music) is a Chicago-based multimedia artist working with music, sound, dance, movement, burlesque and acrobatics, and is the second sibling in the Haus of Twirl. Their work aims to engage vulnerability, inspire introspection and generate collective action. Their work has brought them around the world, creating, performing and producing award-winning art. This includes artistic research residencies at Lund University, invitations to present work with the UN of Sweden and the Clinton Foundation Global Initiative Summit, as well as performances at Steppenwolf Theatre, The Hanna Theater, and more. Additionally, Sean's art has been recognized through numerous awards, including selected student composer at the Chicago Electro-Acoustic Music Festival, the Grammy-Award winning Cleveland Chamber Symphony's Emerging Composer Award, the 2017 OperaFEST featured composer and the 2018 Matthew Freeman Social Justice Award through the Mansfield Institute for Social Justice and Transformation. Sean holds bachelor's and master's degrees in music composition from Baldwin Wallace Conservatory of Music and Roosevelt University Chicago College of Performang Arts, respectively.

Breon Arzell (Choreographer) Kokandy: The Wiz, Head Over Heels, American Psycho. Chicago: A Strange Loop (Raven/AboutFace), How We Got On (Definition Theatre), The Color Purple (Goodman), Black Excellence Shows & Main Stage Revue (The Second City), Brothers Size, We ARE Proud... (Steppenwolf), KillMoveParadise (TimeLine Theatre) and more. Regional: Select: Signature Theatre, Cape Fear Regional Theatre, Woolly Mammoth Theatre, MUNY, The Kennedy Center, Olney Theatre Center, Oregon Shakespeare Festival. International: Italy, A.C.L.E. Theatrino; Germany, White Horse Theatre; Denmark, World Theater Festival; Singapore, LaSalle SIA. Education: DePaul University, Northwestern University, University of Illinois-Chicago. Film/TV: The 4400, SouthSide, Whole + Six Feet Apart, Blacksite. Awards: 5 Jeff Awards (Joseph Jefferson, Chicago), 2 Black Theater Alliance Awards, Helen Hayes Award for Best Choreography.  www.breonarzell.com @breonarzell

About Kokandy Productions

Founded in 2010, Kokandy Productions seeks to leverage the heightened reality of musical theatre to tell complex and challenging stories, with a focus on contributing to the development of Chicago-based musical theatre artists, and raising the profile of Chicago's non-Equity musical theatre community.

The company's artistic staff is comprised of Derek Van Barham (Producing Artistic Director), Scot Kokandy (Executive Producer) and Adrian Abel Azevedo & Leda Hoffman (Artistic Associates). The Board of Directors includes Preston Cropp, Scot Kokandy, Danielle Sparklin and Katie Svaicer. 

For additional information, visit kokandyproductions.com. 

Be part of a night filled with suspense, stories, and special moments this Halloween season when David Arquette goes Behind the SCREAM, a thrilling live conversation including a special 30th anniversary screening of the iconic horror film SCREAM.

Legendary actor David Arquette, who played the beloved character Dewey Riley in the franchise,  will share his insights, anecdotes and the impact SCREAM has had on his career and the horror industry. Following the screening of the iconic 1996 slasher flick, Arquette will take the stage for a live, in-depth moderated interview and Q&A. Fans will have the chance to have their burning questions answered and hear firsthand accounts from one of the film's stars.

Paramount Theatre is located at 23 E. Galena Blvd. in downtown Aurora, with easy, affordable parking and plenty of new restaurants nearby.

Don’t miss this haunting night to remember. Tickets are $41-$71*. Limited VIP Packages are on sale for $171*,  offering the best seats and an exclusive post-show photo-op with Arquette.

For tickets, visit ParamountAurora.com, call (630) 896-6666, or stop by the Paramount box office Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., or until show time on show days. For group discounts, contact Melissa Striedl, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (630) 723-2461. *Prices are for in-person purchases. Additional fees apply for phone and online orders.

Want to go behind-the-scenes of Chicago’s one and only puppet haunted house?

Rough House Puppet Arts’ House of the Exquisite Corpse returns October 8-November 1 at The Merle at Steppenwolf Theatre. New this year, the company is introducing an All-Inclusive Experience that includes ALL the perks: the show, a drink ticket, a giveaway at entry and a coveted backstage tour. 

First, you’ll join a small group of puppet horror voyeurs on visits to six rooms where you’ll peer through keyholes, cracks, and hidden doors to witness the carnage and gallows humor inside. Then, after the final entry, All-Inclusive VIPs will be welcomed back into the House and invited to step inside each room for a behind-the-scenes encounter with this year’s frightful puppets.

Rough House is offering All-Inclusive Experiences Thursdays and Sundays, October 8 - October 25, last entry time only. So treat yourself to something up close and spooky and help the arts thrive. The All-Inclusive Experience, $75 plus a $3 booking fee, is ideal for hardcore puppet horror fans and anyone looking for an all-new, immersive Halloween adventure. Limited spots available, so don’t sleep on this offer. Sign up now at  roughhousetheater.com/tickets.

Back for its sixth Halloween season, House of the Exquisite Corpse is a singularly immersive puppet horror experience with a new theme for 2026 - LULLABIES - that’s sure to keep you up at night. 

Fans of immersive experiences, haunted houses, literature, puppetry and live theater are the ideal audience for Chicago’s most unique Halloween destination. As the Chicago Reader put it, “if you want to move beyond schlock and shock into an elevated horror experience this October, look no further than House of the Exquisite Corpse.”

House of the Exquisite Corpse VI: LULLABIES runs October 8 - November 1: Thursdays through Saturdays, with timed entries starting at 6:50 p.m., continuing every 15 minutes until the last entry at 9:30 p.m. New this year! Sunday matinees, starting at 1:50 p.m.

Tickets are on sale now at roughhousetheater.com/tickets. Sliding scale, Pay What You Can suggested prices are $22 to $47. Note: This production is recommended for ages 13 and over. 

Steppenwolf Theatre’s The Merle is located at 1624 N. Halsted in Chicago’s Lincoln Park Neighborhood, just steps away from the CTA Red Line stop at North and Clybourn.

For more information, visit RoughHousePuppets.org and follow the company on Instagram and Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Giordano Dance Chicago (GDC), America's original jazz dance company, returns to the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, 9501 Skokie Blvd. at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6 and Saturday Nov. 7. The engagement, part of GDC's 64th season, features the world premiere of "Caravan" by GDC Resident Choreographer Al Blackstone, a rework of his swing style full company work "Dumb Luck!" plus a mix of popular repertoire radiating GDC's signature energy and boundless spirit that has been showcased at North Shore Center since the Center's opening in 1996.

GDC is excited to present a world premiere, "Caravan" a solo work featuring GDC dancer Sasha Lazarus. This is Blackstone's fourth new work created for the company. "I'm so grateful for the push that Nan and Cesar give me to keep on asking how to continue elevating our beautiful art form that is jazz dance," says Blackstone.

The additional works program for the Nov. 6 & 7 engagement are scheduled to be as follows:

• "EXit 4" choreographed by Ronen Koresh (2013). Israeli Koresh's critically acclaimed, edgy, intense and dramatic full company work described by Stage and Cinema as "a fierce-to-ferocious, pile-driving set of four dances."

• "Gravity" choreographed by former GDC company member Lindsey Leduc (2009).This pas de deux provides a fresh look at young love and is described by Dance Magazine as "the portrait of a relationship based on release and submission."

• "Sabroso" (excerpts) choreographed by Del Dominguez & Laura Flores (2011). This sizzling full company ballroom work embraces elements of Cha-cha, Latin Swing and Mambo, and has been hailed as "A fiesta of swirling samba and equally hot social struts, flawlessly performed by the impeccable ensemble" (Stage and Cinema).

• "namuH" choreographed by Jon Rua (2026). This full-company piece fuses jazz and street styles for an urban funk sensibility. The Chicago Tribune says, "there's a rawness and refreshing degree of abstraction I wasn't expecting and, frankly, can't get enough of."

• "commonthread" choreographed by former GDC resident choreographer Autumn Eckman (2009). This work will be performed to an eclectic original music composition and live accompaniment by musician Dan Myers. Dance Magazine calls it "an undulating, lateral world of space and sound."

• "Dumb Luck!" a rework by Al Blackstone. Blackstone's jubilant full company work "Dumb Luck!" which originally debuted in GDC's April 2026 Harris Theater engagement, is in swing style and is infused with a contemporary flair.

Tickets

Tickets for the North Shore Center engagement are $35-$70. Fees apply over the phone and online. No additional fees in person at the box office. For tickets and more information visit northshorecenter.org or call 847.673.6300.

About Giordano Dance Chicago

America's original jazz dance company electrifies into their 64th season with radiance and infinite horizons. Giordano Dance Chicago (GDC) is an iconic cultural institution with deep roots in Chicago and around the globe (28 countries, 47 states, and more than 1,300 cities). From founder Gus Giordano's vision, the company continues to honor the past while pushing the art form forward. Nan Giordano celebrates 42 years as an artistic leader responsible for commissioning innovative choreographic works and mentoring thousands of dancers. Alongside Nan, Associate Artistic Director, Cesar G. Salinas and the magnificent dancers are an integral part of the GDC legacy. Al Blackstone serves as Resident Choreographer, truly a testament that the art form of jazz dance is thriving. The company is one of the few in the world that has a foundational technique, Nan Giordano Certification Program®, with certified teachers in 9 countries and 36 states. GDC is committed to Youth Arts Education at home and on tour through mentorships, scholarships, and our free Chicago Public Schools and park programs. GDC is proud to be one of the longest running dance companies in the world, continuing to enrich lives through dance. For more information visit giordanodance.org.

Music Theater Works is proud to announce the cast and creative team for the third production of its 2026 season, Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville, in the North Theatre, at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie, October 8 - November 1. Escape to Margaritaville has a book by Greg Garcia and Mike O’Malley, with music and lyrics by Jimmy Buffett. Music Theater Works’ production is directed and choreographed by Brenda Didier with co-director Sarafina Vecchio and co-choreographer Clayton Cross and music directed by Linda Madonia. Escape to Margaritaville includes a preview performance Thursday, Oct. 8 at 7:30 p.m. The performance schedule is Saturday, Oct. 10 at 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 11 at 2 p.m. (Post-show discussion), Wednesday, Oct. 14 at 2 p.m., Friday, Oct. 16 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 17 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 18 at 2 p.m. (Post-show discussion), Wednesday, Oct. 21 at 2 p.m., Friday, Oct. 23 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 24 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. (ASL interpreted performance), Sunday, Oct. 25 at 2 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 28 at 2 p.m., Friday, Oct. 30 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Oct 31 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 1 at 2 p.m. Tickets are now on sale from $19.50 to $106 with tickets for guests 25 years old and younger available at half-price at MusicTheaterWorks.com or by calling the Music Theater Works box office at the North Shore Center, 847.673.6300. Memberships for the 2026 season are also available at MusicTheaterWorks.com and group discounts for 10 or more people are available by contacting This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Music Theater Works presents the first professional production of Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville in Chicago since its pre-Broadway run. Set sail for a tropical getaway with this feel-good musical packed with island vibes and beloved Buffett classics. This lighthearted romantic comedy follows Tully, a laid-back island singer, and Rachel, a career-focused tourist, as their worlds collide at a beachfront resort. With a story about adventure, self-discovery and living life to the fullest, Escape to Margaritaville is the ultimate musical vacation for Parrot Heads and newcomers alike.

The cast of Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville includes Brian Acker (he/him, Tully); Kate McQuillan (she/her, Rachel); Khaki Pixley (she/her, Tammy); Chase Grabowski (he/him, Brick); Dee Kimpel (she/her, Marley); Brian James (he/him, J.D.); Matt Frye (he/him, Chadd/ensemble/U/S Brick); Rachel Thomas (she/her, ensemble/U/S Rachel); Mackenzie Furlett (she/her, ensemble/U/S Tammy/dance captain); Andrew Faggion (he/him, Ted/ensemble/U/S Tully); Mikala Curless (she/her, ensemble); Ivan James (he/him, ensemble/U/S J.D./non-equity deputy); Jacob Merschel (he/they, Jamal/ensemble); Kelcy Taylor (she/her, ensemble); Kenny Miller (any with respect, ensemble/swing) and Juliet Lopez-Gutierrez (she/her, ensemble/swing).

Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville’s creative team includes Brenda Didier (she/her, director/choreographer); Sarafina Vecchio (she/her, co-director); Clayton Cross (he/him, co-choreographer); Linda Madonia (she/her, music director); Amber Wuttke (she/her, intimacy and violence choreographer); Kathy Logelin (she/her, dialect coach); Mack Finklea (she/they, stage manager); Ryker Blankenship (he/they, assistant stage manager); Bob Knuth (he/him, scenic designer); Ab Rieve (they/them, props designer); kClare McKellaston (she/her, costume designer); Kristen Brinati (she/her, wardrobe head); Melanie Saso (she/her, hair, wig and makeup designer); Carl Wahlstrom (he/him, sound designer); Kalyssa Montoya (she/her, assistant sound designer); Forrest Gregor (he/him, production sound engineer); Ben Lipinski (any, technical director); Liz Brachman (she/her, assistant technical director); Keely Vasquez (she/her, casting director); Chris Chase (he/him, production manager); Katie Meine (she/her, company manager) and Kyle Dougan-LeBlanc (any with respect, producing artistic director).

Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville’s orchestra includes Linda Madonia (she/her, keyboard/conductor); Cara Strauss (she/her, reed); Greg Strauss (he/him, trumpet); Eric von Holst (he/him, bass); Kyle Paul (he/him, guitar 1); Mike Lockler (he/him, guitar 2); Tina Laughlin (she/her, percussion) and Lindsay Williams (he/him, drums).

Jimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville Special Events

Post Show Discussions

Behind the Curtain with Thomas M. Shea

Audiences are invited to stay after the 2 p.m. performances on Sunday, Oct. 11 and Sunday, Oct. 18 to join musical theater historian Thomas M. Shea, author of “Broadway’s Most Wanted,” for a post-show talk exploring the behind-the-scenes history of Escape to Margaritaville. Free with ticket, this engaging discussion is perfect for audiences to learn about the production, its history and more.

ASL Interpreted Performance

The Saturday, Oct. 24 at 7:30 p.m. performance will be ASL interpreted.

Escape to Margaritaville Partnerships

TicketREACH

Music Theater Works supports more than 25 local nonprofits and community organizations and 18 area public libraries through distribution of a minimum of 600 free tickets for every production. TicketREACH is sponsored by Wintrust Financial and Northbrook Bank and Trust.

Jimmy Buffett’s Foundations

Music Theater Works is pleased to be promoting two of Jimmy Buffett's foundations, Singing for Change and Save The Manatee, through informational exhibits in the inner lobby of the theater during Escape to Margaritaville. Singing for Change "turns good vibes into good deeds" by honoring Jimmy Buffett’s spirit of giving, helping others and having fun along the way by offering grant support to thousands of nonprofits across the United States, including five organizations in Chicagoland. The mission of Save The Manatee is to protect manatees and their aquatic habitats for today and for future generations.

ABOUT BRENDA DIDIER, DIRECTOR and CHOREOGRAPHER

Brenda Didier is thrilled to make her Music Theater Works debut with this fun show! Didier is a freelance director and choreographer based in Chicago. Credits: Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, The Goodman, Marriott, Paramount, Royal George Theatre, Theatre at the Center, Chicago Theatre, Theatre Wit, Porchlight Music Theatre, Mercury Theater Chicago, Second City, Theo Ubique, City Lit, Six Flags and Busch Gardens theme parks and many others. Tours: The Kenny Rogers Christmas Tour and Cirque Shanghai-Navy Pier’s Skyline Stage with engagements at the Tropicana Resort in Atlantic City, Harrah’s in Las Vegas and The New Victory Theatre in New York’s Broadway District. Didier made her TV choreography debut with T-Mobile’s national commercial “Home for the Holidays”. She is a multiple Jeff Award recipient in both direction and choreography (Equity and Non-Equity wing), Guy Adkins Award recipient and artistic director/founder of the Lincolnshire Academy of Dance, now in its 29th Season. Upcoming: Jekyll and Hyde (Kokandy Productions/Broadway Playhouse), Christmas Carol at Paramount Theatre and Dead Outlaw with Porchlight Music Theater/Theater Wit. 

ABOUT SARAFINA VECCHIO, CO-DIRECTOR

Sarafina Vecchio is thrilled to be making her Music Theater Works debut! She is a director and actor in Chicago, as well as an educator at Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University and Acting Studio Chicago. Chicago performing and directing credits include: Chicago Shakespeare, Lakeside Shakespeare, Oak Park Festival Theatre, Metropolis, Remy Bumppo Theatre Company, Timeline, Shattered Globe, Drury Lane, Invictus, Janus Theatre, The Other Theatre Company, North Central College, Elgin Community College and CCPA. Film: “Let's Start a Cult,” “Flatchested,” “North of the 10,” “Once Upon A Christmas Wish,” “Finding Hope” and “Coyote.” TV: “Chicago Fire,” “Chicago Justice” and “Toon In With Me.” She is proud to be a member of SAG-AFTRA and is represented by Paonessa Talent. 

ABOUT CLAYTON CROSS, CO-CHOREOGRAPHER

Clayton Cross works nationwide as a choreographer, performer and dance instructor. Cross appeared in the ensemble of White Christmas at Paramount Theatre, as well as ensemble and dance captain of Rock of Ages with Mercury Theater Chicago and with Drury Lane in the ensemble and dance captain in Grease and ensemble in Evita. Cross choreographed West Side Story, Guys and Dolls and Brigadoon at Music Theater Works (MTW) and was last seen on the MTW stage as “Scuttle” in Disney’s The Little Mermaid and in the ensemble of Mamma Mia, and as choreographer for Irving Berlin’s White Christmas and Billy Elliot the Musical. He was choreographer in residence with Music Theater Works under the direction of Rudy Hogenmiller for seven seasons where he choreographed and/or performed in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat as “Benjamin;” Hunchback of Notre Dame; How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying; Into the Woods; Anything Goes as ensemble; Pirates of Penzance as ensemble; Peter Pan as“Nana/Croc;” Gypsy as “Tulsa,” Mame as ensemble; Candide; Guys and Dolls; My Fair Lady; Die Fladermaus; The Fantastiks as “Mute” and Damn Yankees as “Eddie;” and was also in A Chorus Line as “Greg” with Porchlight Music Theatre. Cross also performed at Marriott Theatre in La Cage as “Mercedes.” Cross is an instructor and choreographer for M.A. Dance Nation, a Texas based traveling convention circuit, where he has been choreographing, teaching and judging since 1999. Cross has five times been a consultant and contributed choreography for the Capital One Bowl’s All American Halftime Show. Throughout his 25 year career as a dancer he has worked with Robert Battle, Fernando Bujones, Sherry Zunker, Paul Taylor and Anne Reinking. Cross’s television credits include “Every Dancer Has a Story,” a PBS special on the River North Chicago Dance Company, where he was a company member for 10 seasons and toured nationally and internationally. Cross is originally from Midland, TX where he received his early training from La Petite Dance Co., Coleman Academy and the Midland Community Theatre as a member of the Pickwick Players. Cross holds a double B.F.A. in ballet and modern dance from Texas Christian University.

ABOUT LINDA MADONIA, MUSIC DIRECTOR

Linda Madonia is thrilled to be back at Music Theater Works for Margaritaville where she has previously music directed West Side Story, CATS, Guys and Dolls, Shrek, Mamma Mia and Camelot. Other recent projects include Jersey Boys, Rock of Ages and Sister Act at Mercury Theater Chicago. Anything Goes, Cabaret and A Chorus Line at Porchlight Music Theatre. Madonia also serves as the contractor for the Chicago Federation of Musicians for Porchlight Music Theatre and Music Theater Works. She is the vocal coach for the master’s degree program in Music Theatre Pedagogy at Carthage College and owns American Eagle Productions, which has been at the forefront of Theatre Education in the Chicago area for the past 35 years.

ABOUT MUSIC THEATER WORKS

Music Theater Works is a resident professional not-for-profit music theater founded in

1980. During its 45-year history it has presented more than 150 productions and intimate presentations. Music Theater Works is a professional theater company whose mission is to present works for the musical stage including historic repertoire, revitalizing the Golden Age of Broadway and earlier works, celebrating the Great American Songbook and introducing modern classics.