Music & Theater
in Chicago, IL

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If you’re looking for a fun alternative to the same old movie theater outing – whether with friends or family – take a look at our music & theater options. This area is full of exciting things to do, including theatrical productions and musicals.

Check out our venues below and add some magic to your days. Each listing includes a more detailed description of the venue and the events they host, as well as their name, address, phone number, website, and driving directions.
Apollo Theater
Apollo Theater

(773) 935-6100

2550 N Lincoln Ave
Chicago, IL 60614   Directions Website

The Apollo Theater is a must-visit attraction in Chicago for anyone who loves live theater. Located in Lincoln Park, the theater has provided an intimate setting for live performances since 1978. It has two stages that offer classic and contemporary plays, allowing you to experience the best of the theater world up close.

The company produces shows perfect for families and draws nearly 50,000 people annually. The Chicago Sun-Times has named the Apollo the most innovative theater in Chicago for families. So, whether you're looking for a fun and educational experience for your family or want to enjoy a night out with friends, head over to the Apollo Theater and enjoy some of the best live theater that Chicago has to offer.

Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University
Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University

(312) 341-2300

50 E Ida B Wells Dr
Chicago, IL 60605   Directions Website

The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University is an incredibly historic venue that is worth a visit. This entertainment space has been around for over a century. It has hosted various performances, from classical orchestras like the Chicago Symphony Orchestra to legendary rock acts like Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd, and Eric Clapton.

As a National Historic Landmark and a Chicago Landmark, the Auditorium Theatre is an integral part of the city's history. It was once home to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Chicago Civic Opera. After reopening in 1967, it quickly became a premier venue for rock stars like Janis Joplin, Bob Marley, and many others. If you find yourself in Chicago, a trip to the Auditorium Theatre is a must-see. Not only is it a beautiful and historic venue, but it's also an essential part of the city's cultural heritage.

Beverly Arts Cinema
Beverly Arts Cinema

(773) 445-3838

2407 W 111th St
Chicago, IL 60655   Directions Website

Are you looking to explore your creative side? Check out the Beverly Arts Cinema and discover your talents. With musical instruments such as the guitar, piano, percussion, harmonica, and strings, you can bring your imagination to life.

Express yourself with visual art, including painting, ceramics, sculpture, drawing, glass, and photography. Or, try movie production with character development, screenwriting, editing, and stop-motion techniques. And for those interested in theatrics, learn the fundamentals of acting, improvisation, broadway, directing, and theatre makeup. The possibilities are endless.

Chicago Children's Theatre
Chicago Children's Theatre

(312) 374-8835

100 S Racine Ave
Chicago, IL 60607   Directions Website

Visiting the Chicago Children's Theatre with your family is a beautiful way to experience classic fairy tales, and children's stories brought to life on stage. The theatre is committed to enhancing the community through diverse and meaningful theatrical and educational programs that engage and inspire children and adults alike.

Their goal is to become the leading professional theatre company in Chicago, producing spectacular productions and programs that promote inclusivity and accessibility while motivating young people and families to lead adventurous, courageous, and curious lives. If you're in the vicinity, be sure to attend their shows, such as A Year with Frog and Toad and If All the World Were Paper.

Chicago Cultural Center
Chicago Cultural Center

(312) 616-0600

78 E Washington St
Chicago, IL 60602   Directions Website

If you plan a trip to Chicago, take advantage of the chance to visit the Chicago Cultural Center. This iconic landmark offers a wide range of daily shows, lectures, films, and art exhibits, all free of charge. While you are there, be sure to take some time to explore the unique features of the building, including guided tours that can teach you more about its history and architecture.

With over 1,000 programs and exhibitions annually, the Chicago Cultural Center is a hub for performing, visual, and literary arts. If you are interested in learning more about the building's history and architecture, guided tours are available. During your visit, you can marvel at the world's largest Tiffany stained-glass dome, beautiful mosaics, intricate marble and molding work, and coffered ceilings - all of which have made this building a true Chicago landmark.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater
Chicago Shakespeare Theater

(312) 595-5600

800 E Grand Ave
Chicago, IL 60611   Directions Website

If you're a fan of Shakespeare, you should attend the Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier. This professional theater company was founded in 1986 by Barbara Gaines and is the third largest in the Midwest.

They produce works from the Shakespeare canon and other theatrical performances, with over six hundred performances annually at the Courtyard Theater and the Upstairs space. The theater has won numerous awards, including 36 Joseph Jefferson Awards, three Laurence Olivier Awards, and a Regional Theatre Tony Award. The theater also has a family series for younger audiences and special student pricing.

Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Chicago Symphony Orchestra

(312) 294-3000

220 S Michigan Ave
Chicago, IL 60604   Directions Website

Experience the captivating sounds of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, one of the oldest and most distinguished symphonies in the United States. With over 150 performances each year, this Grammy Award-winning company ranks among the top five symphony orchestras in the world. Witness their exceptional talent and passion for music at Orchestra Hall in Chicago.

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra has been honored with over 60 Grammy Awards in various categories, a testament to their extraordinary skill and dedication to their craft. Join the countless music enthusiasts who have indulged in the captivating performances of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

Chicago Theatre
Chicago Theatre

(212) 465-6000

175 N State St
Chicago, IL 60601   Directions Website

If you want a unique entertainment experience in Chicago, consider visiting the historic Chicago Theatre. The theatre has been restored to its former glory and is now a popular venue for concerts and shows. It features a French Baroque design, crystal chandeliers, ornate artwork, and other decadent details. The iconic marquee of the theatre symbolizes the city and has been featured in countless works of art, photography, television shows, and movies.

Apart from its rich history and stunning architecture, the Chicago Theatre is also a famous venue for live performances. It has hosted various events, including stage plays, magic shows, stand-up comedy, and musical acts. Many favorite artists have performed on its stage, including Frank Sinatra, Dolly Parton, Prince, and Kanye West, to name just a few.

Lyric Opera of Chicago
Lyric Opera of Chicago

(312) 332-2244

20 N Wacker Dr Ste 860
Chicago, IL 60606   Directions Website

The Lyric Opera of Chicago is known for its visually stunning productions each season, featuring some of the world's greatest singers. The company has gained international fame for its artistic excellence, celebrated orchestra, and chorus. The live performances of the Lyric Opera of Chicago are powerful, unique, and inspiring to audiences, leaving a lasting impression long after the curtain falls.

Additionally, the Lyric Opera of Chicago fosters creativity by providing innovative learning opportunities, creative exploration, and artistic collaboration. The company encourages tens of thousands of students, educators, and families from across Chicago to embrace the joy, power, and relevance of opera as a catalyst for growth and change.

Marriott Theatre
Marriott Theatre

(847) 634-0200

10 Marriott Dr
Lincolnshire, IL 60069   Directions Website

The Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire is a popular entertainment venue that has thrilled over seven million people with its award-winning productions of Broadway musicals. Some of the audience favorites include "Cats," "Beauty and the Beast," "Fiddler on the Roof," "Les Miserables," and "Hairspray."

The theater, founded in 1975, is located in the Chicago suburb of Lincolnshire. To date, it has presented over 135 productions, including original plays and re-imagined versions of Broadway classics. The Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences is another program created by the theater, which brings fairy tales and other original works to life for younger audiences to broaden outreach and make a positive impact through live theater.

Patio Theatre
Patio Theatre

(312) 893-5100

6008 W Irving Park Rd
Chicago, IL 60634   Directions Website

The Patio Theater is a historic music venue and movie theater located on the northwest side of Chicago. Built in 1927, it is the only movie palace from its era that still serves the community today. The Patio Theater has been lovingly restored and decorated in the grand tradition, making it an iconic institution in Chicago. The theater offers a memorable movie experience with a giant screen, simulated blue sky, flickering stars, moving clouds, and a state-of-the-art sound system featuring Dolby SR and JBL speakers.

The grand neo-Pompeian lobby has also been restored to its original elegance, welcoming visitors to an open space with a seating capacity of 1000-the most giant single screen in Chicagoland. Enjoy your favorite movies at popular prices while experiencing the magic of the Patio Theater.

Steppenwolf Theatre Company
Steppenwolf Theatre Company

(312) 335-1650

1650 N Halsted St
Chicago, IL 60614   Directions Website

The Steppenwolf Theatre Company is a prestigious theater situated in Chicago. It was established in the early 1980s by Gary Sinise, Terry Kinney, and Jeff Perry. The theater has staged numerous timeless plays such as "Grease," "The Glass Menagerie," "Orphans," and "The Grapes of Wrath," to name a few.

The Steppenwolf Theatre Company is widely known for its exceptional performances. It has received numerous prestigious awards, including the Tony Award for Regional Theatre Excellence and the National Medal of Arts. Additionally, the company's apprenticeship program is recognized as one of the Top 10 Internships in America by the career website Vault.com. If you are a theatre fan, visit the Steppenwolf Theatre Company for an unforgettable live entertainment experience.

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