Experience the magic of Middle-earth with the U.S. premiere of "The Lord of the Rings" musical at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater. This enchanting production, running from July 19 to September 1, 2024, at The Yard, brings J.R.R. Tolkien's legendary trilogy to life on stage. With book and lyrics by Shaun McKenna and Matthew Warchus, and music by A.R. Rahman, Värttinä, and Christopher Nightingale, this theatrical event is directed by Paul Hart.

Embark on a journey with Frodo Baggins as he sets out on a perilous quest across Middle-earth, from the joyous celebrations of Bilbo's eleventy-first birthday in the Shire to the dark realms of Mordor. Alongside his loyal Fellowship, Frodo aims to vanquish evil, spurred by his inheritance of a gold ring from his uncle Bilbo. This production celebrates the rich world of Middle-earth, offering an unforgettable experience for both longtime fans and newcomers.

The Chicago Shakespeare Theater's collaboration with Middle-earth Enterprises brings this re-imagined version of "The Lord of the Rings" to audiences, fulfilling a shared dream of showcasing the Watermill's stage expression of Tolkien's work. The play features a talented creative team, including Shaun McKenna and Matthew Warchus (Book and Lyrics), A.R. Rahman, Värttinä, and Christopher Nightingale (Music), and Paul Hart (Director), among others.

Special performances include ASL Interpretation on August 23 at 7:00 p.m., Open Captioning on August 21 at 1:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m., and Audio Description on August 25 at 2:00 p.m., ensuring accessibility for all audiences. This production is suitable for all ages, with a recommendation for those 8 and up, making it a perfect family outing.

Don't miss this world premiere musical event at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, located at 800 East Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL. For tickets and more information, visit the Chicago Shakespeare Theater's website or contact the box office at 312.595.5600. Join us for a journey to Middle-earth that promises to be both legendary and enchanting.

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The Lord of the Rings

Chicago Shakespeare Theater

**Chicago Shakespeare Theater Presents: Henry V**

This fall, immerse yourself in the timeless drama of Shakespeare's "Henry V," brought to life by the acclaimed Chicago Shakespeare Theater. From September 6 to October 6, 2024, the Courtyard Theater will be the stage for this gripping tale of ambition, adventure, and the complexities of nationalism, directed by the visionary Edward Hall.

**Event Details:**

- **Play:** Henry V
- **Dates:** September 6 - October 6, 2024
- **Venue:** Courtyard Theater, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 East Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611
- **Directed by:** Edward Hall

Following his groundbreaking production of "Richard III," Artistic Director Edward Hall opens the fall season with a powerful rendition of "Henry V." Known for his evocative storytelling and innovative direction, Hall has previously captivated audiences in London’s West End, New York, and globally with his Shakespearean productions. This play marks his first season with CST since taking over as artistic director in October 2023.

"O for a Muse of Fire" – with these iconic words, Shakespeare's "Henry V" unfolds into a narrative filled with famous speeches and stirring poetry. Edward Hall's interpretation delves into the thrill and the destructive power of war, examining the seductive and dangerous facets of nationalism. The play is a profound exploration of war, its consequences, and our collective need for unity.

**Why See Henry V?**
Edward Hall states, "Henry V remains one of the most revealing plays about war, nationalism, and the consequences of both. There has never been a more prescient moment to explore our reflex for conflict through the prism of a story that contains some of the greatest writing in the English language."

**Tickets and Additional Information:**
Tickets will go on sale later this summer. For more information on tickets, seating, and additional resources, please visit the Chicago Shakespeare Theater website or contact the box office at 312.595.5600.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience one of Shakespeare's most compelling works, directed by one of the most innovative directors of our time. Join us at the Courtyard Theater for a season opener that promises to be both thought-provoking and profoundly moving.

Henry V

The Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) is set to captivate audiences at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater with its world premiere of "Pericles." This much-anticipated event marks the RSC's triumphant return to Chicago for the first time in 30 years, heralding a new era of collaboration between the two esteemed institutions. Directed by Tamara Harvey, in her inaugural season as co-artistic director alongside Daniel Evans, this production promises a fresh and profound take on William Shakespeare's tale of adventure, love, and miracles.

"Pericles" tells the story of Prince Pericles, whose life is upended by danger, leading him on an extraordinary journey across the seas. Through storms, shipwrecks, and unexpected trials, Pericles encounters love, loss, and the possibility of miracles. This production, direct from its run at the Swan Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon, showcases the RSC's commitment to bringing Shakespeare's works to life with new vigor and relevance.

The event is scheduled to run from October 20 to December 8, 2024, at the Courtyard Theater, located at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier. This engagement is particularly special as it represents the 100th international production by CST, further cementing its reputation for presenting world-class artistic performances.

Tamara Harvey and Daniel Evans, the RSC's co-artistic directors, express their excitement about this partnership, reflecting on the historical ties between the RSC and Chicago that date back to 1913. They emphasize their shared commitment to fostering international collaboration and presenting theater that resonates with contemporary audiences.

Tickets for "Pericles" will go on sale later this summer, offering theater enthusiasts the opportunity to witness this landmark production. Additional information about the event, including run time, parking, and dining options, will be available to ensure a memorable and enriching experience for all attendees.

Pericles

**Event: Jaja’s African Hair Braiding at Chicago Shakespeare Theater**

**Dates:** January 14 - February 2, 2025  
**Location:** The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare, 800 East Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611  
**Written by:** Jocelyn Bioh  
**Directed by:** Whitney White  
**Run Time:** Approximately 90 minutes with no intermission  
**Tickets:** Available for purchase later this summer. Subscribe for updates.

**About the Play:**  
Making its regional premiere straight from a twice-extended Broadway run, "Jaja’s African Hair Braiding" is a comedic play that offers a vibrant glimpse into the lives of a group of West African immigrant women in Harlem. Set in a bustling hair salon, this narrative unfolds over a sweltering summer day filled with love, dreams, and secrets. As the day progresses, the tight-knit community faces the boiling point of their uncertainties, challenging what it means to be an outsider on the edge of the place they call home.

**Why You Should See It:**  
Acclaimed playwright Jocelyn Bioh brings to life the vibrant women of Jaja's African Hair Braiding, offering audiences a unique opportunity to explore the rich diversity and universality of the immigrant experience in America. This play is a heartfelt tribute to the beauty of diversity, culture, and the sense of community that binds us all.

**Additional Information:**  
- **Parking and Directions:** Detailed information available on the Chicago Shakespeare Theater website.  
- **Dining Options:** A variety of dining options are available near the venue.  
- **Accessibility:** The theater is committed to accessibility for all patrons. For more information, visit the Chicago Shakespeare Theater website.

**Production Credits:**  
"Jaja’s African Hair Braiding" is a co-production of Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Arena Stage, and Berkeley Repertory Theatre, presented in association with Madison Wells Live and LaChanze.

**Contact Information:**  
- **Box Office:** 312.595.5600  
- **Website:** [Chicago Shakespeare Theater](https://www.chicagoshakes.com)

Don't miss this world premiere production that celebrates the spirit of community and the resilience of the human heart. Subscribe today for updates and ticket information.

Jaja’s African Hair Braiding

**Avaaz at Chicago Shakespeare Theater**

**Dates:** January 21 - February 9, 2025  
**Location:** Upstairs at Chicago Shakespeare, 800 East Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611  
**Duration:** Approximately 90 minutes with no intermission  
**Tickets:** Available later this summer

**About the Event:**

Chicago Shakespeare Theater is proud to present the world premiere of "Avaaz," a captivating solo performance written and performed by Emmy Award nominee Michael Shayan and directed by Tony Award nominee Moritz von Stuelpnagel. This groundbreaking play celebrates the Iranian-Jewish immigrant experience, blending traditions with humor to create a deeply personal yet universally relatable narrative.

In "Avaaz," Michael Shayan takes on the role of his own larger-than-life mother, Roya, inviting audiences into her home to celebrate the Iranian New Year. Through her eyes, we journey from Tehran to "Tehrangeles," California, exploring her quintessential American journey with a mix of extravagant humor and heartfelt emotion. The play's East Coast debut was met with critical acclaim, described as "ingenious and masterful" by BroadwayWorld and DC Theater Arts.

"Avaaz" is more than just a play; it's a fabulous, decadent party on stage that grapples with complex truths and offers a different narrative at a time of overwhelming anti-immigrant sentiment. Michael Shayan and the team are excited to bring the magic of Tehrangeles to Chicago and beyond, promising an unforgettable experience that celebrates diversity and the power of storytelling.

**Additional Information:**

- **Parking and Directions:** Information available on the Chicago Shakespeare Theater website.
- **Dining Options:** A variety of dining options are available near the theater.
- **Production Sponsor:** The Davee Foundation's World Stage Fund.
- **Production Credits:** An Olney Theatre Center production, presented in association with Broadway & Beyond Theatricals.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Chicago Shakespeare Theater website or contact the Box Office at 312.595.5600. Join us for a night of laughter, reflection, and celebration with "Avaaz."

Avaaz

Experience the magic and whimsy of Shakespeare's beloved romantic comedy, "A Midsummer Night’s Dream," like never before at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater. This enchanting production, adapted and directed by the renowned Edward Hall, promises to captivate audiences with its portrayal of young love, foolishness, and the delightful chaos brought on by magic and enchantment. Set in the intimate Courtyard Theater, this adaptation is part of the Short Shakespeare series, designed to introduce the wonders of Shakespeare to middle and high school students from across the region.

From February 8 to March 8, 2025, the theater will host a special five-week run of school matinees, welcoming over 20,000 students to experience the exhilaration of this timeless story. Additionally, the public will have the opportunity to enjoy this 75-minute production during Saturday performances, making it a perfect weekend outing for families, Shakespeare enthusiasts, and newcomers alike.

Edward Hall, celebrated for his dynamic and engaging adaptations, shares his excitement about creating this Short Shakes production. He aims to warm hearts and delight souls, inspiring young audiences and future artists with a comedy that resonates across ages. This production is a testament to the Chicago Shakespeare Theater's ongoing commitment to providing exceptional theater experiences for young people.

Don't miss this opportunity to dive into a world where the boundaries between dream and reality blur, and love leads the way through a night of enchantment and laughter. With no intermission, the 75-minute run time ensures a captivating experience from start to finish. Tickets will go on sale later this summer, so be sure to mark your calendars for a magical journey to the heart of Shakespeare's imagination at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier.

Short Shakespeare A Midsummer Night’s Dream

**Chicago Shakespeare Theater Presents: Hamlet From Peru**

**Dates:** March 13 - 23, 2025  
**Location:** Upstairs at Chicago Shakespeare, 800 East Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611  
**Language:** Performed in Spanish with projected English translation  
**Run Time:** Approximately 90 minutes with no intermission  
**Tickets:** Available later this summer

In an extraordinary blend of Shakespeare's timeless drama and vibrant personal storytelling, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater (CST) is thrilled to present a world premiere from March 13 to 23, 2025: *Hamlet From Peru*. This unique production, presented in partnership with the Chicago Latino Theater Alliance (CLATA), brings to the stage a group of young performers with Down syndrome from Teatro La Plaza in Lima, Peru. Directed by the acclaimed Chela De Ferrari, this adaptation of *Hamlet* promises a joyful celebration of self-expression and a profound theatrical experience.

The performers weave Shakespeare’s classic text with personal anecdotes, exploring the central theme of "To be or not to be" through their own life experiences. This lively and profound performance is enhanced with a mix of pop music, dance, and wry humor, offering a provocative look at questions of inclusion and discrimination. It's a bold and energetic reimagining of one of Shakespeare's most famous works, promising to be a memorable event for all attendees.

Jorge Valdivia, CLATA’s executive director, expresses excitement for this unique adaptation, highlighting its importance as a representation of Latine actors and its potential to teach and inspire audiences with its fresh perspective on Shakespeare's work.

Don't miss this limited engagement at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier. It's not only a chance to experience a classic play through a new lens but also an opportunity to support an inclusive and innovative approach to theater.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Chicago Shakespeare Theater's website or contact the box office at 312.595.5600.

Hamlet

**Sunny Afternoon at Chicago Shakespeare Theater**

**Dates:** March 21 - April 27, 2025  
**Location:** The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare, 800 East Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611

**About the Show:**  
Dive into the electrifying journey of The Kinks' rise to fame with the North American Premiere of "Sunny Afternoon." This award-winning musical, capturing four Olivier Awards including Best New Musical, showcases the band's tumultuous ascent through their own iconic songs like "You Really Got Me," "Lola," and "All Day and All of the Night." With an original story, music, and lyrics by The Kinks’ legendary Ray Davies and a script by Joe Penhall, "Sunny Afternoon" offers an unforgettable rock-and-roll experience. Directed by Edward Hall, who led the world premiere in London, the musical promises a personal and timeless narrative straight from Davies' perspective, highlighting the family's collaborative spirit and the universal struggle of overcoming life's challenges.

**Duration:** Approximately 2 hours, 40 minutes, including intermission

**Tickets:** Available later this summer. For more information, visit the Chicago Shakespeare Theater's website or contact the Box Office at 312.595.5600.

**Additional Information:**  
- Parking and dining options are available at the venue.  
- For those interested in supporting the arts, consider becoming a sponsor or donating to the Chicago Shakespeare Theater.

Join us for a mesmerizing performance that celebrates the legacy of The Kinks and the power of music to transcend time. Don't miss this rock-and-roll journey through the highs and lows of one of the most influential bands in history.

Sunny Afternoon

**Chicago Shakespeare Theater Presents: Hymn**

This spring, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater (CST) is proud to announce the world premiere of "Hymn," a deeply resonant play celebrating male friendship, written by the Olivier Award-winning playwright Lolita Chakrabarti. Running from April 29 to May 25, 2025, at the Courtyard Theater, this production marks a significant return for Chakrabarti, whose previous works, including the acclaimed "Red Velvet," have captivated CST audiences.

"Hymn" is set against the vibrant backdrop of Chicago, a creative reimagining from its original London setting at the Almeida Theatre. The play intricately weaves the lives of two middle-aged Black men, exploring the depths of their bond through an intimate lens that delves into the themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the complex dynamics of relationships between brothers, fathers, and sons.

Lolita Chakrabarti shares her inspiration for the play, stating, "I wanted to write a story of two Black men who find love with each other—a familial, platonic love. My own male friends have often surprised me with their sensitivity, femininity, fussiness, insecurities, fun, kindness, and warmth—the list goes on. 'Hymn' was born out of my desire to tell a different story." Her anticipation to bring this narrative to Chicago is palpable, promising a rendition that resonates with the city's rich cultural tapestry.

Tickets for "Hymn" will go on sale later this summer, with the run time and additional details to be announced. This premiere is a must-see event for theater enthusiasts and anyone drawn to powerful storytelling and profound explorations of human connections.

Location: Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Courtyard Theater, 800 East Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611. For more information, visit the Chicago Shakespeare Theater's website or contact the box office at 312.595.5600.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier

Jul 19 - Sep 1, 2024

The Lord of the Rings

Sep 6 - Oct 6, 2024

Henry V

Oct 20 - Dec 8, 2024

Pericles

Jan 14 - Feb 2, 2025

Jaja’s African Hair Braiding

Jan 21 - Feb 9, 2025

Avaaz

Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier