DANCE Nestled beside Millennium Park, the Harris Theater is a state-of-the-art venue showcasing a dynamic mix of music and dance performances. Its resident companies include the acclaimed Hubbard Street Dance Chicago and ensembles specializing in ballet, tap, jazz, African dance, and contemporary styles. A global leader in dance, the Joffrey Ballet stages classics alongside bold contemporary pieces at the Lyric Opera House . Its annual holiday show, The Nutcracker , is a crowd favorite thanks to stunning visuals and live music from the Lyric Opera Orchestra . Muntu Dance Theatre celebrates the vibrant energy of Africa with performances that blend traditional and modern African and African American dance and folklore. Red Clay Dance Company electrifies with Afro-contemporary choreography that uplifts the voices of the African diaspora. As one of the country’s most esteemed jazz dance groups, Giordano Dance Chicago has wowed audiences with passionate performances for more than six decades. Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater is a world-renowned company that performs flamenco, folklore, bolero, classical, and contemporary Spanish dance. CHICAGO THEATRE PICKS UNNECESSARY FARCE Buffalo Theatre Ensemble | Through March 1 This comedy about a bungled sting operation to catch an embezzling mayor is presented at the McAninch Arts Center in suburban Glen Ellyn. ON YOUR FEET! THE STORY OF EMILIO & GLORIA ESTEFAN Drury Lane Theatre | Through March 22 The celebration of Miami Sound Machine’s greatest hits will have you up and dancing in the aisles in west suburban Oakbrook Terrace. CHICAGO THEATRE WEEK Experience the extraordinary range of Chicago’s theatre scene during this 10-day celebration each February. Snag discounted tickets to more than 100 shows, from rousing musicals to experimental dramas. Learn more at chicagotheatre week.com . MISS JULIE Court Theatre | Feb. 6 – March 8 This story of the confrontation between class, gender, and desire at the turn of the 20th century is as relevant today as when it was first written. ADMISSIONS Citadel Theatre Company | Feb. 11 – March 15 This sharp, compelling drama explores the lengths we’ll go to protect our children, presented in north suburban Lake Forest. A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM Loyola Department of Fine and Performing Arts | Feb. 12 – 22 Shakespeare’s beloved farce exposes twisted love triangles during a strange night in a magical forest, presented at the Newhart Family Theatre. HAMILTON Broadway In Chicago | March 4 – April 26 The blockbuster musical based on the epic saga of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton returns to Chicago’s CIBC Theatre. What makes Chicago a must-visit destination for arts and culture? “ Art Institute of Chicago, MCA, Millennium Park ” @claireprichard “ The wealth of museums from many cultures at your fingertips (Puerto Rican, Mexican) ” @victoriascall “ Architecture, Gospel & House Music ” @greatbeardedman “ Open House Chicago! ” @cory.sechrest “ House music ” @asuciii “ SO MUCH! Concerts, theatre district, Art Institute, and more! ” @chicitygina “ Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago Symphony Orchestra & Symphony Center ” @barney__park_ “ The one and only Art Institute and architectural boat tours ” @colleencestmoi “ I love how Chicago is a city where culture, community and joy collide! Unmatched! ” @kelly_martina WINDFALL Steppenwolf Theatre Company April 9 – May 31 This world premiere explores how grief, justice, sexuality, gender, history, and even pride become secondary in the wake of currency. THE GREAT GATSBY Broadway In Chicago | April 21 – May 3 This unforgettable tale of love, wealth, and tragedy brings the Roaring Twenties to life on the Cadillac Palace Theatre stage. ICEBOY! Goodman Theatre | June 9 – July 19 Emmy Award winner Megan Mullally stars in this musical comedy about a thawed Neanderthal who becomes a Broadway sensation. THE NOTEBOOK Broadway In Chicago | Aug. 4 – 16 30 CHOOSECHICAGO.COM This play chronicles the romance of a couple from different worlds who share a lifetime of love, despite forces that threaten to pull them apart.
Chicago Visitors Guide 2026: Page 30
