The 9 best theatre acts in Chicago this spring

This weekend’s plans just got better with tickets to this beloved show, the story of little orphan Annie and her quest for family. The production has been winning over audiences ever since its 1976 debut for its themes of hope and perseverance, as evidenced in both storyline and songs (“It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Tomorrow”). Animal lovers will be especially glad to know that the role of Sandy is played by an array of rescue dogs (courtesy of PAWS), each expertly trained by Tony Award Honoree William Berloni.

Through March 19 at Cadillac Palace Theatre. Purchase tickets here.

After making its debuts on West End and on Broadway, this hit musical arrives to Chicago with as much energy as Tina Turner herself. The production charts the upbringing of the Tennessee native and her entry into rock and roll, where she would shake up entertainment history as the world knew it. This is a story of endurance and overcoming, all set to the sounds of Turner’s biggest hits (complete with showstopping choreography).

Through April 2 at James M. Nederlander Theatre. Purchase tickets here.

Directed by Sivan Battat, Martin Yousif Zebari’s Layalina tells the story of an intergenerational family that seeks to restore a sense of home after emigrating from Iraq to suburban Chicago. As each family member navigates their own grief and identity, they realize the significance of belonging to a place—and to each other.

Through April 2 at Goodman Theatre. Purchase tickets here.

Groove into the weekend with the funky tunes of Earth, Wind & Fire thanks to this tribute show, featuring hits like “Boogie Wonderland,” “Reasons” and “September.” Written and directed by producing managing director Daryl D. Brooks, the show tells the story of the band’s early days and the events that helped catapult them into the spotlight—and, of course, the feel-good vibes that kept them there (including elaborate stage performances and costumes). Snag tickets soon—with weekend performances only, seats are selling fast.

Through April 16 at Black Ensemble Theater. Purchase tickets here.

Written by Donnetta Lavinia Grays and directed by Valerie Curtis-Newton, this Chicago premiere touches on some of the most powerful themes felt within a family: sacrifice, love and endurance—all through the lens of a parent-child relationship. When Monique and her daughter Sam arrive to their family’s home in Brooklyn, the family begins to question what such an arrival means, and what it is they’re leaving behind of their lives in Georgia. Buckle in for an emotionally layered story that hones in on family bonds and their expansive nature.

April 6-May 14 at Steppenwolf Theatre Company. Purchase tickets here.

Fans of the Disney hit will be jazzed to catch it at the Cadillac Palace Theatre this May, when it features all of the beloved songs from the motion picture—and then some, written specially for the stage. It’ll also dazzle by way of attire—sketched by Tony-winning costume designer Gregg Barnes—as all of the outfits are handmade for the show and feature impressive stats (including a team of 205, more than 2,000 fabrics and origins from around the globe).

May 17-28 at Cadillac Palace Theatre. Purchase tickets here.

Chicagoans are some of the fortunate few to welcome these two comedy legends for their first joint tour this May, when they descend on The Chicago Theatre for three sets across two days. The two will spend each evening sharing tales from their decades-long friendship and careers—all of which is bound to incorporate the same wit and charisma that was quick to win over fans in works like Mean Girls and Parks and Recreation.

May 20-21 at The Chicago Theatre. Purchase tickets here.

The Lyric Opera captivated audiences with its 2019 debut of this Broadway classic—and they’re bringing that magic back for three weeks this June, when we’re once again in the world of Sharks and Jets—and of Maria and Tony. Leonard Bernstein's music and Stephen Sondheim's lyrics soar as strongly as ever, reminding spectators that even in the midst of power battles and familial strife, love perseveres.

June 2-25 at Lyric Opera of Chicago. Purchase tickets here.

Everyone’s favorite Steves take to the stage yet again this June, when they grace The Chicago Theatre for two nights with their “You Won’t Believe What They Look Like Today” tour. Expect plenty of jabs at Hollywood and the oddities of fame, and, of course, some affectionate and sharp puns at one another.

June 2 & 4 at The Chicago Theatre. Purchase tickets here.