Chicago Like a Local

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Author

Robert Bullen

Bob Bullen is a fan of Chicago theatre, from its thriving storefront scene to Broadway in Chicago — and everything in between. In addition to his blog, Chicago Theatre Addict, Bob writes about Chicago theatre for The Huffington Post and has contributed to CBS Chicago and the Edge Network. He lives in Andersonville with his partner, Gerald. You can stalk him via @ThtrBob on Twitter.

Posts

Theatre Bob's Top Three Show Recommendations (Right Now)

anythinggoes

From tap-dancing sailors to a weighty drama, Chicago's theater scene has something for every taste. With hundreds of theater companies and venues, narrowing down your endless options can be a challenge, but I'm here to help. Check out my three can't-miss shows playing this week.


A 'Big Fish' Guide to Life

BigFish
Choose Chicago blogger Kara Carmichael already reported on the big, pre-Broadway musical Big Fish, based on the novel by Daniel Wallace and the 2003 movie of the same name, which is playing at the Oriental Theatre through May 5. So, I won't repeat a topic with my thoughts on the show (strong second act, particularly an amazing final 30 minutes, first act needs work, stellar performances throughout -- my review in a nutshell).

Always Wanted to Join the Circus? Check out 'Barnum'

Barnum on Stage

Have you ever wanted to run away and join the circus? Do you enjoy a good musical comedy? Well, combine them, and you get one of the most enjoyable musicals written in the past 40 years. The Mercury Theater is hosting a showtune-driven, three-ring spectacle and you don't want to miss their version of the "greatest show on Earth."


My Niece Texts Wayyy Too Much, and Other Lessons I Learned from Blue Man Group

BMG

1997 seems like ages ago, doesn't it? It's the year Titanic sailed into theatres, Ellen DeGeneres came out publicly and the Hale-Bopp comet sped by Earth's outer orbit. Also, this.

1997 was also the year Blue Man Group opened at Chicago's Briar Street Theatre as an off-Loop curiosity (and the year I first saw the show). Quickly, the show gained a tourist following and never looked back -- 16 years later the show is still playing to packed houses, eager to see what these odd,


An All-Female 'Julius Caesar' Breathes Life into A Well-Worn Classic

Julius Caesar

You think you've seen Julius Caesar? Think again. Yes, Chicago Shakespeare Theater's bold, modern-day production (closing March 24) has its share of surprises and risk, but there's a smaller, yet no less intense, production taking place up north.


This is the Moment: Jekyll and Hyde Comes to Chicago Prior to Broadway

jh 
It's the musical that wouldn't die. Despite incessent critical backlash, Jekyll and Hyde is one of those shows that's endured because audiences, quite simply, love it. Following several concept albums, regional productions and recordings of the breakout song "This Is the Moment," J&H opened on Broadway in 1999, starring composer Frank Wildhorn's muse (and wife at the time), Linda Eder. Even with standing ovations and a devoted fanbase (called

Broadway in Chicago Announces Fall Season

Evita 
While we're barely in to Broadway in Chicago's spring season, BIC has already announced its eclectic fall lineup, featuring a megamusical, a home-grown biodrama and an unexpected Broadway blockbuster. 

Theatre Bob's Valentine's Day Love List

I Love Lucy - Stage - Blog

Dinner and a movie -- that's the classic date night recipe. Why not add some life to this dated dating game and take your loved one to live theatre? Here are some suggestions to make your Valentine truly feel special on this special day.


Theater Bob’s Backstage Guide to Chicago Theatre Week

StageDoor

Chicago Theatre Week begins February 12 (one week from today!), so here are some of the can't-miss shows, along with any additional perks.


A Field Guide to Chicago Theatre Week

ChicagoTheatreGuideBook

Curtain up and light the lights! The first-ever Chicago Theatre Week is just around the corner! From February 12-17, more than 60 area theatres, from big-name houses like Goodman and Steppenwolf, to bold storefronts, such as Griffin Theatre Company and Steep, are participating in this uniquely Chicago event.


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