Theater Week and more

 

Theater venues range from Chicago's historic Water Works (top left) to the new The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare on Navy Pier, bottom right. (J Jacobs photo)
Theater venues range from Chicago’s historic Water Works (top left) to the new The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare on Navy Pier, bottom right. (J Jacobs photo)

Chicago Theater and Arts coverage of what to look forward to in 2020 that had started with Three fun festivals and shows, continues with what’s on stage.

First, there’s a chance to see some Chicago area productions at bargain prices thanks to Chicago Theatre Week, Feb. 13-23. But because the shows will be $30, $15 or less during this special week, tickets go fast.

Try to snag the shows you want when Theatre Week tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. CT on Jan. 14. Find them at Chicago Theatre Week.

A popular, annual League of Chicago Theatres’ Chicago Plays program that is now in its eighth year, Theatre Week will offer more than 100 productions in the city and suburbs. That may sound like a lot but the Chicago area is tops in the country in the number of theater production companies, i.e. more than 250.

In 2019, seats for 139 different productions were offered during Theatre Week. The list goes up when tickets go on sale on Jan. 14.  That may sound like there will be several seats available but attending theater in and around Chicago is popular across the country. Last year, Chicago Theatre Week tickets were bought by people from 36 states and countries.

“Each year, Chicago Theatre Week introduces audiences to incredible shows at great prices,” said League of Chicago Theatres Executive Director Deb Clapp. It presents an opportunity for every visitor and every resident to experience new work, fresh talent, musicals, improv, and more.”

David Whitaker, President and CEO of Choose Chicago, the co-sponsor of Chicago Theatre Week as the city’s official tourist site, said, “Chicago, which is home to over 250 dynamic theatres, provides visitors more variety and creative platforms than any destination in the United States.”

He added, “Perhaps more importantly, Chicago Theatre Week helps create a greater understanding of the year-round programming, opportunities and the amazing venues that call Chicago home.”

Secondly,  the next article in this what’s coming series will talk about some of the shows that will be on stage. However, for now, a good site to catch what is currently playing and what is coming is Theatre In Chicago. It also carries reviews of shows that have already opened.

Half-price tickets to performances can be found at HotTix.org and at the two Hot Tix half-price ticket locations: across from the Chicago Cultural Center at Expo72 (72 E. Randolph) and Block Thirty Seven (108 N. State).

Jodie Jacobs