Chicago’s fall theatre season is stacked with a dazzling lineup of returning heavy hitters and bold premieres.
Fall theatre guide
Whether you’re searching for sharp comedy, soulful drama, spectacular dance, or bold musicals, you’ll find something in Chicago’s diverse performing arts community that speaks to you this season. And don’t miss top cultural events happening this season, like Chicago International Latino Theater Festival from Oct. 1 to Nov. 2, 2025.
Here’s a compilation of some of the stories gracing Chicago stages this fall.
Comedy
Veal at A Red Orchid Theatre
Sept. 25 – Nov. 2, 2025
A dark comedy directed by Jojo Jones takes place in a dystopian world where Chelsea becomes Queen of North America after a violent coup. Three former friends visit her palace seeking a favor, but before granting it, she forces them to revisit their shared friendship and its tragic ending.
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This Too Shall Slap at The Second City
Now through Jan. 25, 2026
This zany sketch show turns the ordinary into the ridiculous, somehow making it relatable. A six-person ensemble delivers chaos, charm, and rapid-fire humor, leaving you laughing, puzzled, and doubting reality. It promises to be a night of surprises and laughter.
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Dungeons & Dragons The Twenty-Sided Tavern at Broadway Playhouse
Now through Sept. 28, 2025
The Tavern returns to Chicago with a fresh Dungeons & Dragons on-stage experience. The production, given four stars by Time Out New York, offers an interactive blend of fantasy theatre and gaming; audiences pick heroes, battle monsters, and join a quest.
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The Book of Mormon at CIBC Theatre
Oct. 14 – Oct. 19, 2025
Named “the best musical of this century” by The New York Times, The Book of Mormon is back in Chicago for a limited run. The outrageous musical follows the misadventures of two Mormon missionaries as they attempt to spread the Good Word.
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Drama
Mr. Wolf at the Steppenwolf Theatre
Sept. 11 – Nov. 2, 2025
Rajiv Joseph’s unflinching play centers around Theresa, who was stolen as a child and returns at 15 to a family she barely knows. The drama provocatively examines questions about what makes a home, family, and our role in the grand saga of human existence.
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Paranormal Activity at Chicago Shakespeare Theater
Oct. 8 – Nov. 2, 2025
This original story follows the tale of James and Lou, who move from Chicago to London to escape their past — only to discover that places aren’t haunted, people are. The bone-chilling show is from celebrated Chicago playwright Levi Holloway and Felix Barrett, with illusions by Tony-Award-winner Chris Fisher.
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The Crucible at Beverly Arts Center
Sept. 18 – 21, 2025
Arthur Miller’s 1953 drama, responding to McCarthyism, depicts Salem’s witch-hunt hysteria after two teenage girls accuse their neighbors of witchcraft. It illustrates how fear-driven accusations undermine justice, truth, and personal integrity during political persecution.
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Rabbits in Their Pockets at Lifeline Theatre
Sept. 5 – Oct. 5, 2025
This original play and world premiere by local playwright Kimberly Dixon-Mays at Lifeline Theatre follows two estranged and opposite siblings who bury their grief and rediscover each other’s special magic.
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Musicals
Hell’s Kitchen at James M. Nederlander Theatre
Nov. 11 – 30, 2025
The energetic, award-winning Broadway musical was created and inspired by Grammy Award-winning Alicia Keys. It follows Ali, a 17-year-old seeking freedom and purpose, guided by a transformative mentor. Set to the rhythm of the ‘90s, it’s a celebration of finding yourself, your purpose, and the people who lift you.
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Blue Heaven at the Black Ensemble Theatre
Sept. 6 – Oct. 26, 2025
Experience a wild, soulful ride from shame to redemption and heartbreak to healing, sparked by blues legends. With powerhouse performances and fierce emotion, this is your invitation to let the music move you as you laugh, cry, reflect, and rejoice.
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A Beautiful Noise at Cadillac Palace Theatre
Nov. 19 – Nov. 30, 2025
This Broadway in Chicago musical, created in collaboration with Neil Diamond, tells the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a star. Set to the songs that defined Diamond’s career, the musical is both inspiring and exhilarating.
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The Sound of Music at James M. Nederlander Theatre
Oct. 21 – Nov. 2, 2025
A timeless favorite, The Sound of Music is back on stage with a critically acclaimed North American tour, introducing a new generation to the beloved story of Maria and the Von Trapp family.
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Family
Click, Clack, BOO! A Tricky Treat at Lifeline Theatre
Oct. 4 – Nov. 2, 2025
Duck, Pig, Cow, and Hen must outsmart mean ol’ Farmer Brown to throw a Halloween party. Join in on the fun as the barnyard crew teaches Farmer Brown that sometimes a little scare can be fun.
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Coco in Concert at Lyric Opera House
Oct. 16 – 18, 2025
Despite his family’s generations-old ban on music, Miguel dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz. Desperate to prove his talent, he sets off on an extraordinary journey to unlock the story of his family’s history. See the film, performed with a live orchestra at Lyric Opera House.
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Frederick at Chicago Children’s Theatre
Sept. 27 – Nov. 16, 2025
Based on the book by Leo Lionni, a field mouse named Frederick glides through summer with daydreams while others are busy gathering food. When winter arrives, it’s Frederick, the artist among them, who helps everyone survive the winter.
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Disney’s The Lion King at Cadillac Palace Theatre
Oct. 3 – Oct. 19, 2025
The Lion King, a Tony-winning musical phenomenon seen by over 120 million, returns to Chicago this fall. Julie Taymor’s direction, Elton John and Tim Rice’s music, and stunning visuals define this landmark show.
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Opera and dance
Beauty Will Save the World at Harris Theater
Oct. 11, 2025
Witness Ballet 5:8’s compelling mixed-repertory program, which celebrates resilience, cultural heritage, and the transformative power of beauty in turbulent times. This performance brings together five distinct works that cross boundaries of genre, language, and tradition.
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Black Milk at the Steppenwolf Theatre
Nov. 14 – 23, 2025
Experience Ohad Naharin’s thrilling quintet performed by the Hubbard Street Dancers when it graces Steppenwolf’s Downstairs Theatre for the first time.
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Swan Lake at Harris Theater
Oct. 1, 2025
Known for its stunning choreography, intricate set design, and Tchaikovsky’s captivating music, the ballet masterpiece tells the story of a prince who falls in love with a beautiful swan princess under a spell. This special performance will showcase the visiting Gran Kyiv Ballet.
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Medea at Lyric Opera of Chicago
Oct. 11 – 26, 2025
This intense spectacle stars international powerhouse soprano Sondra Radvanovsky in this millennia-old tale of drama, infidelity, and revenge. The show will be sung in Italian with English subtitles.
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