2022 Lake County Fall-Winter Theatre Schedules are Released
By: Nick Borowitz 08/17/2022
Live theatre is a unique experience. Many of the centerstage venues have released their 2022 Lake County fall-winter theatre schedules.Feel the inner emotions with a deeply dramatic Shakespeare rendition. Delight the inner child with a live performance of a favorite classic tale. Or tear up with laughter and feel like your sides are about to split.
View this post on Instagram
We are lucky to have several theatres and auditoriums here in Lake County to witness these spectacles. Keep busy for an entire month by visiting different venues each weekend. Here are the 2022 Lake County fall-winter theatre schedules.
Ravinia Festival (Through September 18)
View this post on Instagram
Ravinia Festival traditionally has concerts by renowned artists and local musicians. But you can catch a stage production on select dates uniquely adapted for the venue.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago: Evolution is a dance company based in Chicago and travels internationally. They blend contemporary dance styles with multiple choreographers, whereas typical troupes have only one. They grace the stage at Ravinia Festival on September 16.
Once Upon a Time: Alan Menken’s Broadway with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra lets you relive classic melodies that you remember from childhood. This performance includes tunes from "The Little Mermaid," "Beauty and the Beast," "Aladdin," "Pocahontas," "The Hunchback of Notre Dame," "Hercules," and "Little Shop of Horrors." This show is a special salute to Alan Menken. You can hear the favorites again on September 19.
Citadel Theatre Company in Lake Forest (Through December 18)
View this post on Instagram
The Citadel Theatre produces powerful works of insight and complexity, illuminating the challenges and joys of the human experience. They are dedicated to maintaining the highest standard of professionalism. The Citadel Theatre also hosts workshops for young thespians looking to exercise their acting skills. Visit their site or give them a call to find out about getting your kids ready for the big stage.
Little Shop of Horrors (September 15 - October 16)
Their autumn production is "The Little Shop of Horrors," which is based on the 1960 Roger Corman-directed film. The theater play follows the store attendant Seymour and his co-worker crush Audrey. Audrey's sadistic dentist boyfriend and a man-eating plant threatening the world's existence are thrown into the mix.
It Runs in The Family (November 16 - December 18)
Their winter production is "It Runs in The Family." Dr. Mortimer is Britain's master farceur who has to deliver the Ponsonby Lecture at an international conference. The doctor has to navigate a hectic hospital and fend off a paternity suit, ex-wife, punkish son and various characters to achieve his goal.
Workshops for Young Thespians
Who Stole The Cookie From The Cookie Jar? (September 18)
This is a beginning level, high-energy class that will have your budding artiste up on their feet. The camp program teachers introduce the young actors to the fundamentals of acting by playing a variety of theatrical games. This class offers the ability to build your child’s self-esteem, confidence and stage presence through play-based learning culminating with an in-class performance at the end of the term.
Inspector Director and The Case of The Precious Treasure (September 18 - December 4)
A parade of fun-filled characters is mixed with hearty action to create a zesty search for the “precious treasure.” This class is perfect for young performers ready to explore their creativity, discover possibilities and connect with peers. This entertaining family play is filled with a spirited interaction between actors and the audience as everyone helps locate the hidden treasure. Where is it? What is it? Audiences and actors will love helping Inspector Detector put all of the pieces together in this delightful, animated puzzle.
The Mysterious Case of The Mysterious Call (September 18 - December 4)
There are “Dadd jokes” galore in this fast-talking film-noir spoof. Featured is Detective Hugo Dadd, whose idea of justice is served with a punny dish of corn. When a mysterious suitcase goes missing from the bus station, Dadd is on the case of the missing case. He uses an arsenal of wordplay, one-liners and meets silly characters along the way. This class will have your child laughing while they figure out who is telling the truth. Find out in this mile-a-minute comedic homage to “The Maltese Falcon.”
Wine, Cheese and Murder (September 18 - December 4)
This educational course is focused on helping actors deepen their knowledge of storytelling. It uses a combination of dialogue, objectives, tactics and conflict while enjoying the newest story from best-selling mystery playwright Michael Druce. Vineyard owner Chardonnay Boudreaux invites wine expert Beau Jolie to host a wine tasting. This tasting immediately turns sour when Beau discovers the wine is contaminated with gasoline. This vintage mystery murder is ripe with suspects and motives.
Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (Through December 22)
View this post on Instagram
Experience the grandeur of world class artists, Broadway theatricals, musical acts, comedians and more at the Genesee Theatre. It is available to rent for private occasions if you need a large space that shows it history with a modern spirit. There is ample room for any number of special events including the main auditorium and numerous auxiliary spaces.
Charlie Berens (September 24)
Oh, you betcha! With his thick "Up Nort" accent, comedian Charlie Berens has created a hilarious YouTube character that has become a viral phenomenon. Charlie pokes fun at all things Wisconsin. The "M'waukee" native captures the quirky charm of speaking "'Scansin" which is unique to the Badger State. The Midwest Survival Guide has rocketed the sketch comedian and Emmy®-winning journalist to become a New York Times best-selling author, don't cha know. Berens brings that same charismatic wit to his standup. You'll be laughing so hard your sides will hurt, honest to Pete. Holy moly, tickets are going to sell fast. You betcha!
Kalabante Acrobats Presents: Africa En Cirque (September 29)
This performance will have you on the edge of your seat as you witness spellbinding athleticism and jaw-dropping acts. Hypnotic rhythms of West African drums and melodies will set the pace for the performance that combines dance, live music, theater and some utterly astonishing feats. This feast for the senses fuses long-established African performance art with European circus traditions. Be astonished by the creation of human pyramids, contortionists who intertwine into one another and aerial acrobatics. Witness firsthand the strength, balance and agility of some of the world's most elite dancers, contortionists, gymnasts and acrobats
Theresa Caputo Live! (October 14)
Theresa Caputo shared her psychic gift with millions of viewers on TLC's hit reality series Long Island Medium for 14 seasons. She continues to channel their healing messages to those who need them most. In this one-of-a-kind live performance, the spirited psychic and best-selling author shared personal stories and explains how her remarkable gift works. She'll do readings for a few lucky fans who need comfort and closure.
Eddie B: Teachers Only Comedy Tour (October 15)
Eddie B tells the audience what it is really like to be a teacher in today's public schools. Through his Teachers Only Comedy Tour, he uses his piercing wit, spot-on impressions and gift for physical comedy to make the audience laugh with his unique brand of comedy all his own. Eddie B is a former educator turned stand-up comic and his breakout success came after racking up millions of views of his viral video, “What Teachers Really Say”. Now, the multi-platform social media superstar is on stage tapping into the minds of teachers everywhere.
Randy Rainbow (November 11)
Randy Rainbow is one of America's favorite musical satirists and returns to the Genesee with his Pink Glasses Tour. The four-time Emmy® nominee will take on the hottest topics and political elites with his hilarious musical parodies. He is accompanied by some of Broadway's finest musicians and the multi-talented performer will perform new songs that he wrote with Marc Shaiman ("Hairspray," "Mary Poppins Returns") and Alan Menken ("Little Shop of Horrors," "Beauty and the Beast").
State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine Presents Sleeping Beauty (November 17)
The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine presents Sleeping Beauty, one of the greatest classical ballets of all time. This full-scale production is set to the lush music of Tchaikovsky and based on the Brothers Grimm's timeless fairy tale. Follow a handsome young prince as he works to free a beautiful maiden from an evil spell. Ukraine's 55 brightest ballet stars bring this romantic fantasy of true love to life in this traditional adaption. Share the glorious artistry of this world-class performance with the whole family or make it a romantic evening for two.
Legally Blonde: The Musical (November 19)
This production is based on the novel and movie of the same name. Legally Blonde: The Musical chronicles the journey of the perky Elle Woods, a fashion-savvy SoCal sorority girl who follows her ex-boyfriend to Harvard Law School. She succeeds in her studies and wins a major court case and graduates at the top of her class. There will be rousing songs and show-stopping dance numbers backed by a live orchestra. Nominated for seven Tony Awards and winner of three Laurence Olivier Awards, this new production of the beloved Broadway musical is as hilarious as it is heartwarming.
Dancenter North Presents The Magic of The Nutcracker (December 21 & 22)
Dancenter North's The Magic of the Nutcracker is a must-see play in Lake County for the holiday season. It is lavish and features the classic elements that makes The Nutcracker unforgettable. The Genesee Theatre production features over 100 performers, elaborate sets, graceful dancers and Tchaikovsky's beautiful score. This anniversary performance celebrates 34 years and will delight audience members, both young and old. Share the beauty of this classic holiday treat with your family.
Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer: The Musical
Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer: The Musical tells the story of a storm that strands Santa’s sleigh. The namesake reindeer gets the chance to light the way and save Christmas. Relive this unforgettable story and the joyful songs, including those made famous by Burl Ives. This musical adaption features the classic characters: Santa, Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Yukon Cornelius, the Abominable Snow Monster and of course Rudolph!
James Lumber Center for The Performing Arts at The College of Lake County
View this post on Instagram
The James Lumber Center for The Performing Arts at College of Lake County is home to a wide variety of entertainment acts, musical performances and live theatre shows. The facilities include the 600-seat Mainstage Theatre, the 250-seat Studio Theatre, the 400-seat C005 Auditorium and three conference rooms. The theatre presents a season of incredible variety featuring internationally acclaimed performers.
The Second City: Out of The House Party (September 17)
The Second City is bringing back their favorite e.t.c. stage for a night of raucous laughs, silly sketches and rapid-fire jokes. This show is normally hosted at The Second City in Chicago, but they bring the laughs to us here in Lake County. They play improv games where anything goes. Skits from their laugh archives will make appearances with updated comedy elements. It will be a night full of chuckles, laughs and side-splitting humor.
Lions in Illyria (September 30 - October 2)
Separated from her brother by a sea storm, the young lioness Violet must brave an unknown country all alone. She disguises herself as a boy and finds work helping a preposterous peacock win the love of the most graceful gazelle in town. But soon her adventures take a wacky turn and Violet finds herself entangled in the clownish antics of a warthog and his featherbrained sidekick. Travel to the wonderful land of Illyria in this comedy about friendship, love, and the importance of being oneself. Recommended ages five and up.
The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (November 11 - 19)
An outrageously funny phenomenon known worldwide, "The Complete Works of William Shakespeare" explores what happens when three actors attempt the feat of performing every piece of the playwright's works. The catch is that the attempt is all done in a single two-hour stage production. This performance will appeal to all the lovers of William Shakespeare and his unique form of drama and those who may find Shakespeare to be a bit of a bore.
Winter Dance (December 2 & 3)
The Winter Dance by the College of Performing Arts is a culmination of hours of practice and choreography. Come watch students and community members perform in a series of dance styles. These include ballet, modern, hip hop, tap, jazz, yoga, along with other dance forms.
Ruth Page Civic Ballet's The Nutcracker (December 17)
Marriott Theatre at the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort (Through December 31)
View this post on Instagram
See the best of Broadway at the Marriott Theatre featuring five great musicals every year. The theatre earns lavish praise from critics, receiving a record 370 "Joseph Jefferson Award" nominations, Chicago's highest theatrical honor for artistic achievement.
Hello, Dolly! (August 24 - October 16)
This is a musical adaption of Thornton Wilder's hit play, "The Matchmaker." It is made to burst with romance, humor and fantastic songs in musical history. It stars the Marriott Theatre's favorite Heidi Kettenring and is directed by two-time Tony Award nominee Denis Jones.
Southern Nights: Michael Ingersoll Sings Glen Campbell (October 17 and 18)
Michael Ingersoll is an acclaimed actor and PBS touring star who will be singing to remind the crowd of the warmth and genius of Glen Campbell. Ingersoll will lead a band of sensational musicians and connect Campbell's rags-to-riches story with grit, grace and gratitude. Michael starred in "Jersey Boys" and with PBS retro rock group Under The Streetlamp.
A Christmas Story (November 2 - December 31)
See the beloved 1983 movie-turned musical performance on stage. The songwriting team behind "Dear Evan Hansen" and other hits will bring the production to life. This is the classic tale of Ralphie as he works to be a good boy for Christmas for the reward of the official Red Ryder Air Rifle. The leg lamp, pink bunny pajamas and freezing flag pole will all appear.
The Wizard of Oz: Winter Edition (November 15 - December 31)
Travel down the “Yellow Brick Road” to the Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire to witness “The Wizard of Oz.” Their production of Lyman Frank Baum’s original tale returns after a two-year hiatus following protagonists Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion, accompanied by run-ins with the Wicked Witch of the West. It is the classic story of four unlikely friends and features the classic melodies “Follow the Yellow Brick Road,” “Ding Dong the Witch is Dead” and “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”
Christmas Pageant at Quentin Road Baptist Church in Lake Zurich (December 15-18)
View this post on Instagram
Quentin Road Baptist Church strives to make a difference in their community and looks forward to reaching more. They throw a wonderful Christmas pageant yearly with performers, choreography and live downright cute animals. They have a cast of over 300 performers including "angels" hooked up to harnesses to "fly" across the stage, elaborate staging of the set, surreal lighting and a brilliant musical score. There are six showings between December 15 and 18 for ample opportunity to catch the spectacle.
Improv Playhouse Theater in Libertyville (Through Late December)
View this post on Instagram
Improv Playhouse is a professional theatre and entertainment organization. The acting school specializes in comprehensive improv. Divisions include corporate team building, business and private entertainment, talent management, performing arts camps, community outreach and education. They have two locations in Libertyville and Highland Park. Saturday nights are their improv shows and as part of the First Fridays on MainStreet Libertyville, are stand-up nights.
Dracula: A Live Radio Play! (TBA in October)
This weekend, celebrate Halloween with an ode to the medium that often terrorized the audiences of yesteryear. Improv Playhouse Theater in downtown Libertyville brings to life their interpretation of the 1938 Orson Welles Mercury Radio Theatre production of Bram Stoker’s classic, “Dracula.” The iconic radio play is performed live onstage by the talented group of thespians, as audiences will conjure images of fright and terror with this heralded tale. The theater encourages visitors to wear Halloween costumes as there will be prizes and giveaways for those audience members voted best dressed. Shows are scheduled for Friday and Saturday night. The performances have a $5 corking fee for “BYOB” show-goers ages 21 and older.Radio Player's It's A Wonderful Life (TBA in December)
The Improv Playhouse Radio Players, professional drama troupe of the Libertyville based theatre company, performs the live staged radio drama of "It's A Wonderful Life." This is the classic holiday tale familiar to most and regarded as perhaps the best Christmas movie ever made. To take this story and set it in a 1940s radio studio complete with commercials and a sound effects artist is a great concept, and it is clear why this show has become a staple of the holiday season. Live the classic tale with a comedic twist as only the Improv Playhouse can deliver.Showstoppers Presents: Elf Jr. (August 26 - November 12)
Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa's bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. With Santa's permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity.Fourth through seventh grades. In-person musical theatre classes.
Broadway Bound Presents: Disney Frozen Kids (August 30 - November 3)
You’ll love this fanciful and heartwarming stage adaptation of the celebrated animated film. Join Anna, Elsa, Olaf, Sven, and all of your favorite characters as they embark on an epic, ice-filled journey of self-discovery, camaraderie, and the real meaning of true love. Experience favorites and sing along to “Love Is an Open Door,” “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?,” and “Let It Go” and new songs from the Broadway production.Fourth through seventh grades. In-person musical theatre classes.
Triple Threat Workshop at Improv Playhouse (August 27 - November 5)
The workshop allows kids in fourth through seventh grades to work on their acting chops. It is a chance to improve their performance skills with directors offering feedback immediately. Strengths and weaknesses will be assessed to guide young thespians from starting onto a path of performative growth.
To find more of the dramatic arts and live entertainment throughout Lake County, click here.
See everything happening in Lake County and find something to do this weekend.
