The breathtaking stage design, stunning choreography, and impressive scenic, costume, and lighting design that is visually stunning is fantastic. Sharen Davis's vibrant costumes were spectacular, excluding part of the lion attire that looked like a giant diaper. The hair, wig, and make-up designs by Charles G. Lapointe and Kirk Cambridge Del-Pesche, respectively, were immaculate.

Manual Cinema's Christmas Carol is a refreshing new twist on the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, seen through a widow's eyes. It passionately portrays heartbreak, loneliness, and the loss of a loved one during the pandemic.

The holidays are officially here. Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol is back at Goodman Theatre, now in its 46th year; the classic tale delights tourists and Chicagoans with another awe-inspiring performance — and with the incredible performance from Larry Yando, who has formally become the universal image of Ebenezer Scrooge, it's hard to find a reason why this one-person redemption epic shouldn't be seen annually for years to come.

Even though I've never seen a television dramatization, it will bring back nostalgic childhood memories that will get you in the holiday spirit. It's a yummy treat sure to get you into the Christmas spirit — and a family outing that will bring a smile to children's faces and rekindle the joys of your childhood Christmas. It's a must-see family event!

This refreshing retelling of the protagonist Ella - the name given to her by her parents, always seems to retain its glory and powerful message. Cinderella was a nickname her stepmother gave her after finding her near the fireplaces covered in ashes and cinder. This story is refreshing because it highlights women's empowerment, wisdom, internal kindness, and the power of sisterhood.

The actors John Hoogenakker and Rebecca Spence performed excellently in The Lion in Winter. Their characters' manipulative wit and sarcastic bantering were convincing, and they successfully portrayed the complex emotions of their roles. The audience could feel their pain and passion, and it was clear that they were trying to outmaneuver each other cleverly.

With Goffin writing the lyrics and King the music, they are known for writing many of the top soundtrack hits of the 1960s, which included "Up on The Roof" by The Drifters, "You've Lost That Loving Feeling" by The Righteous Brothers, "Will You Love Me Tomorrow" by The Shirelles, "The Loco-Motion" by Little Eva, "One Fine Day" for the Chiffons, "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" for Aretha Franklin, and many others songs, that changed the music world.

The life of this play is due to the exceptional performance of Collette, who was amazing as Beetlejuice. His awe-inspiring performance alone is worth the ticket price.

Potus, a farce by Selina Fillinger, is one of the most engaging, enthralling, and hilarious productions Steppenwolf has provided in years.

Second City's standard format, using their wit and satire, focusing on politics, one-night stands, the neurotic nun, a school for troubled youth, the real boss of hell, and two Italians discussing what's dangerous in Chicago and various acts that will leave you laughing throughout the night.

Phillips's Twelfth Night is an outrageously funny and provocative Shakespearean narrative that will have you hysterically laughing even after the play is over. It's just that good!

Through various storylines, the play deals with contemporary dating, marriage, and divorce. Over the years, there have been several changes, including changing the lead character's name from Robert to Bobby and, more recently, a gender-swapped lead role featuring a female named Bobbie. Despite these changes, the plot remains consistent, focusing on Bobbie's 35th birthday party and her search for a partner.

Watkins combines his expertise, tremendous people skills, and dazzling wit, making his show a must-see event.

The intimate Spiegeltent ZaZou cabaret with the mirror tent offers outside seating for drinks, conversation, and pictures, and the new Love, Chaos & Dinner features Chicago's own Sa'Rayah as Singer & Madame Z.

…this two-act, 19 songs, 2 hours 30 minutes, including one 15-minute intermission production of Young Frankenstein, is another example of Mercury Theater's combination of choosing outstanding plays and an exceptional cast, making it a worthy Brooks comedy.

If you lived during the times of the roaring '20s and you mentioned the nicknames "Satchmo," "Satch," and "Pops," people would automatically know you were talking about one of the greatest jazz soloists worldwide, Louis (Louie) Armstrong.

As Grace makes Gracie recite the pledge, she gets an unexpected visit that will haunt the family's legacy when an old rumor comes to roost when Alpha Campbell Jackson tries to blackmail the Dunbar family.

Director Mikael Burke vividly brings to life this edgy production about the frays of struggles, abortion, sexuality, and the dreams of making it big against the turbulent backdrop of friendships and foes; this production will have you on the edge of your seat in anticipation.

Hamilton is a stage production that is in continual motion for two hours and forty-five minutes, and, with its amazing sound effects, historically correct costumes, dancing, stimulating dialogue, and high-energy performances, it's a phenomenal theatrical history lesson that rivals seeing Macbeth on stage. Audiences viewing this magnificent production may miss the beauty within the simplicity of the staging, which provides a perfect blend of the actors and their costumes.

Walking into the theater, I briefly talked with Artistic Director BJ Jones, who said, "I think you are going to like this one." He was right! Birthday Candles is this year's top performance production and a play that will change your life.