Chicago Theater Scene Updates

Several seasoned Chicago theater professionals, such as producer Joshua Altman, are central to the production of “To Have and To Hold,” a new off-Broadway play penned by and starring Laura Lapidus. This piece is a modern interpretation of “The Taming of the Shrew,” focusing on the sibling dynamic between Kate and Bianca. Yuriy Sardarov, known for his work in “Chicago Fire” and TimeLine Theatre, joins the cast alongside Tedra Millan, who was previously announced. Altman, who founded Lily Jack Productions, participates in the play opening on August 23 at Chashama’s 154 Theater, located at 154 Christopher St. in New York.

Nearly four decades have elapsed since Barbara Gaines, along with Chicago actors, initiated Shakespeare Repertory of Chicago with a performance of “Henry V” atop the Red Lion Pub roof in Lincoln Park. To commemorate its 40th anniversary, the now-renamed Chicago Shakespeare Theater hosts a free and family-oriented birthday open house at its lavish setting on Navy Pier. Visitors will have the chance to engage in various activities across its three venues, including backstage tours, theatrical design displays from former Chicago Shakespeare productions, a verse reading session with artistic director Edward Hall, and a silent auction featuring books signed by Ian McKellen, a noteworthy visitor and performer. There’s also an opportunity for photos on the Courtyard Stage, complemented by birthday cake. Tours commence at 5 p.m. and culminate with a season preview presentation at 7 p.m. on August 3. Free reservations can be secured at www.chicagoshakes.com.

The Umbilical Brothers, recognized stars of the Nickelodeon series “The Upside Down Show,” will bring their performance, “The Distraction,” to the Studebaker Theater this fall. Masters of physical comedy suitable for both children and adults, they begin their U.S. tour in Chicago on September 19; more details are available at www.fineartsbuilding.com.

A Red Orchid Theater has unveiled its 2026-27 season. Entering its 34th year, the Old Town company will feature a world-premiere adaptation and two Chicago premieres revolving around the theme of a “world on fire.” The season kicks off this fall with the Chicago premiere of Will Arbery’s politically charged drama, “Heroes of the Fourth Turning,” directed by ensemble member dado. The winter of 2027 will bring Keiko Green’s dark comedy “You Are Cordially Invited to the End of the World!,” under Terry Guest’s direction, showcasing ensemble members dado and Sadieh Rifai. The season wraps up next spring with a world-premiere adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s “Rosmersholm,” adapted by Steve Haggard and Shade Murray, directed by Murray, featuring Sherman Edwards, Haggard, Travis A. Knight, and Natalie West.

Rivendell Theatre has announced the cast for its fall world premiere of Eliza Bent’s play, “Bonnie’s Last Flight.” Rebecca Spence, Eric Slater, Jessica Ervin, Glenn Obrero, and Paul Oakley Stovall are all set to perform.

The Goodman’s hit show “Octet” will conclude this Sunday, urging those interested not to miss this notable piece of Chicago theater. Meanwhile, “Theater of the Mind,” for intimate audiences and created by David Byrne and Mala Gaonka, is presented by the Goodman Theatre at the Reid Murdoch Building.

Chris Jones recommends several shows including: “Theater of the Mind” at the Goodman in the Reid Murdoch Building; “Octet” through August 2 by Raven Theatre at Goodman; “Pandemonium, Please Hold” in an open run at Second City Mainstage; “Leopoldstadt” through August 16 at Writers Theatre; “Champions of Magic” until August 23 at Studebaker Theater in the Fine Arts Building; “A Little Night Music” until August 9 at Marriott Theatre; “Iceboy!” through August 16 at Goodman Theatre.