REVIEW: THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL NATIONAL TOUR LAUNCH AT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO’S ORIENTAL THEATRE THROUGH JANUARY 13, 2019

ChiIL Live Shows on our radar

THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL

THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER IS NOW A THRILLING NEW ROCK MUSICAL

NATIONAL TOUR LAUNCH

AT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO’S ORIENTAL THEATRE

 Review

by bonnie kenaz-mara

Any show that gets kids and tweens excited about and engaged in live theatre, reading more novels, and curious about Greek mythology is a win in my book, and THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL does that! My kids have read all the books and enjoyed all the movies so they were super stoked to hear there's now a stage version on tour. If your littles are fans of the franchise, hustle out and catch the national tour launch of this award winning musical adaption before it vanishes like a demigod on a quest. The audience was full of enthusiastic littles for the press opening last night, and they seemed to be enjoying it immensely. What's not to love? There's adventure, a bit of diversity in the cast, and strong male and female characters who are kids. There's a pop score with live musicians, stage combat, Greek Gods, and mythical creatures to battle. 

The Drama Desk nominated book by Joe Tracz is a celebration of misfits and outcasts with absentee parents and problems that are relatable. It's encouraging to see kids with dyslexia, ADHD, discipline problems, and troubled home lives hit their stride and find camaraderie and success on an epic quest. The musical cuts quite a lot from the books and even the film version, skipping or skimming over many main scenes like the Lotus Eaters and Hydra battle, and changing many plot points outrightly. That said, the basic road trip, buddy plot remains intact, as this intrepid band of demigods battle for their lives and their parents' attention. There are still plenty of familiar Greek Gods, Goddesses, myths and monsters. 

Do manage your expectations. If you're anticipating a big budget spectacle with breathtaking special effects, set design, and visuals, this is not the show you're looking for. There are no set changes and props and vehicles are made from simple scaffolding, a wheel chair, handlebars and shop lamps. 

Explosions are confetti canons and monsters are masks and puppets. The stunning water scenes from the movie are a bit anticlimactic when recreated with leaf blowers and rolls of toilet paper. 

All the music is fairly nondescript vanilla pop, with few standouts. The worst element was the lighting, which was frequently aimed at the audience in blinding, headache inducing sweeps, for little apparent reason. I can only assume they were trying to foster a rave or concert vibe.

The Lightning Thief was a hit in New York, but an Off-Broadway hit, and it still feels like it would play better in a much smaller venue. Still, the storyline is solid, the characters are familiar, and the young and young at heart may be charmed by this modern take on classic characters and their offspring, despite its shortcomings. When I heard they were only planning to play The Oriental for a week, I felt a bit of trepidation. That's an extremely short window for a Chicago tour launch. In the parking garage elevator after the show, I overheard an adult remarking, "At least it wasn't as bad as I'd feared it would be." I concur. Somewhat recommended. 

Bonnie Kenaz-Mara is a Chicago based writer-theater critic-photographer-videographer-actress-artist-general creatrix and Mama to two terrific teens. She owns two websites where she has published frequently since 2008: ChiILLiveShows.com (adult) & ChiILMama.com (family friendly). 

Broadway In Chicago is thrilled that 

THE LIGHTNING THIEF: 

THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL, 

the musical adaptation of The New York Times bestseller, launches its national tour for a limited one-week engagement at Broadway In Chicago’s Oriental Theatre (24 W. Randolph) through January 13, 2019.

With more than 100 million copies of the book series sold worldwide, this global phenomenon has found a new home on the live stage in a "mesmerizing" theatrical event that proves "lightning can strike twice!" (TheaterMania). Following a sold-out run in New York City, where it garnered 3 Drama Desk Award nominations, including Best Musical, this "winning adaptation" (The Hollywood Reporter) is coming to rock Chicago.



As a son of Poseidon, Percy Jackson has newly discovered powers he can’t control, monsters on his trail, and is on a quest to find Zeus’ lightning bolt to prevent a war between the Greek gods. Based on the best-selling novel by Rick Riordan and featuring a thrilling original rock score, THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL is an action- packed theatrical adventure that has been celebrated by audiences and critics alike.

THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL has a Drama Desk nominated book by Joe Tracz, music and lyrics by Rob Rokicki, and is directed by Stephen Brackett, with choreography by Patrick McCollum, with set design by Lee Savage, costume design by Sydney Maresca, Obie award winning sound design by Ryan Rumery, lighting design by David Lander, fight direction by Rod Kinter and orchestrations by Wiley DeWeese and Rob Rokicki. The production is being presented by special arrangement with Rick Riordan and the Gallt & Zacker Literary Agency.
  
THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL is produced by Theaterworks USA, Martian Entertainment, Greg Schaffert Productions, Lang Entertainment Group and in partnership with The Road Company.
  
Official show site: Facebook: Twitter: Instagram:
http://www.lightningthiefmusical.com http://www.facebook.com/LightningThiefMusical http://www.twitter.com/LTMusical

http://www.instagram.com/LTMusical 

Fans will also be thrilled to learn the full cast album has been released on Spotify for streaming. Check out the album here. 

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
Tuesday, Jan. 8 at 7:30PM
Wednesday, Jan. 9 at 2:00PM & 7:30PM Thursday, Jan. 10 at 7:30PM
Friday, Jan. 11 at 7:30PM
Saturday, Jan. 12 at 2:00PM & 8:00PM Sunday, Jan. 13 at 2:00PM

TICKET INFORMATION
Individual tickets are currently on sale and range in price from $25-$80 with a select number of premium seats available. Tickets are available now for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710 or emailing GroupSales@BroadwayInChicago.com. For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

CHRIS McCARRELL (Percy Jackson) originated the role of Percy Jackson in the Off-Broadway production of The Lightning Thief in 2017. He was also seen as Marius in the Tony Nominated revival of Les Misérables. Television credits include Nibs in “Peter Pan Live” and “The OA”. Most recently Chris originated the role of Gilbert Blythe in Anne of Green Gables: A New Folk Rock Musical at the Finger Lakes Musical Theatre Festival. Other regional credits include Jimmy Livingston in Bubble Boy the musical, Hermie in Summer of ‘42, Gabe in Next to Normal, Anthony in Sweeney Todd, and Lewis in Pippin. He has sold out concerts at 54 Below ranging from Christmas Carols with Chris McCarrell to his most recent coming of age story Both Sides Now. Developmental workshops include October Sky, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, The World Will Not Contain Us, Nikola Tesla Drops the Beat and Manhattan Kids. He is a 2013 graduate of Baldwin Wallace Conservatory of Music.

IZZY FIGUEROA (Understudy for Grover, Mr. Brunner, Assistant Stage Manager). Thrilled to be a part of TLT touring co. Tours/Regional: James...Peach (NJ Premiere, TGS), Click, Clack,
Moo (TWUSA), Joseph...Technicolor Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ Superstar (PIP), Carded (Feinstein’s/54 Below). Thanks to Stewart/Whitley, TLT team, and Meg Pantera Agency! For my Bern. @izzyyfig

JORREL JAVIER (Grover, Mr. D). Stoked to join Camp Half-Blood! Regional credits: Mamma Mia! (Casa Mañana), In the Heights (Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma & ZACH Theatre). Texas State University (BFA Musical Theatre c/o ‘18). Love and thanks to his parents and sister, his Texas State family, and the folks at CGF Talent. www.JorrelJavier.com. IG: @Jorrel_

RYAN KNOWLES (Chiron and others) originated the role of “Buddy” in the national tour of We Will Rock You, the Queen musical. Tours: How The Grinch Stole Christmas, Todrick Hall's OZ: The Musical. Off- B’way: Bulldozer, NEWSical, Caligula Maximus. Regional: For The Record: The Brat Pack, Disney’s Hunchback...(WI). TV: Host of Nickelodeon's daily live program “Me:TV”.

SAM LEICHT (Understudy for Percy, Luke) is so excited to be making his national tour debut with The Lightning Thief! Previous regional credits include Link in Hairspray, Will Bloom in Big Fish, and Gabe in Next to Normal. Proud Baldwin Wallace University alum. So much love to family and friends. Instagram: @leichtning

SARAH BETH PFEIFER (Clarisse and others, understudy for Annabeth) is PUMPED to hit the road and continue her journey with this amazing show! Notable past credits include The Lightning Thief (Lucille Lortel), Goldstein (The Actors Temple), and Legally Blonde (National Tour). She is an active voice over artist and a member of the Constellation Choir. www.sarahbethpfeifer.com

JAMES HAYDEN RODRIGUEZ (Luke and others) originated the role of Luke in NYC and is on the Original Cast Album. Favorite credits: The Visitor (The Public Theater), Spring Awakening (First National Tour), Man of La Mancha (Shakespeare Theatre Company), Hairspray (Signature Theatre). TV: CONAN @ The Apollo. Sending love to my boys at home! www.jameshaydenrodriguez.com @jameshaydn

JALYNN STEELE (Sally and others). Overjoyed to be a part of this amazing show! Off Broadway: Sistas: The Musical (Dr. Simone). National/International Tours: Fosse (Lead & Gotcha Girl) Regional: Mamma
    
Mia! (Tanya), Beehive, Little Shop of Horrors (Ronette). Other Credits: After Midnight (Star), Rock of Ages (Justice). Grateful to my family and husband. @Jalynn_The*Entertainer

T. SHYVONNE STEWART (Understudy for Sally, Clarisse) is a navy brat, but considers Dallas home. National Tour debut! Credits include: Sister Act (Ensemble, Tina, u/s Deloris), AIDA Cruises (Lead Soloist), Kennedy Center Honors, Christmas in Washington. Degrees from Spelman College, George Washington, and Georgetown. Thanks to God, family, friends, Creative Team, & my amazing representation. IG: @chosenmelody, tshyvonnestewart.com


KRISTIN STOKES (Annabeth) is “Feelin’ Stoked” to pack her bags for this “Killer Quest”! She has had the honor of bringing Annabeth to life since The Lightning Thief’s first workshop; playing both off Broadway runs, and recording the Original Cast Album. Other credits include: The Ballad of Little Jo (Kate), Two River Theatre (OCR); Fly By Night (Miriam), Dallas Theatre Center; Agent 355 (Anna/Simcoe), Musical Theatre Factory; Tales From the Bad Years,Theatreworks Silicon Valley; Junie B’s Essential Survival Guide.. (Junie B), TWUSA, The Secret Garden (Martha), The Willow’s Theatre. Love to the Cast, Crew, and Creatives of TLT, my Family, JD, and all the AMAZING Fans!

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 19 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country. A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining more than 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, Oriental Theatre (will become the Nederlander Theatre in February 2019), and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. 

For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.
Facebook @BroadwayInChicago ● Twitter @broadwaychicago ● Instagram @broadwayinchicago ● #broadwayinchicago 

The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LightningThiefMusical
Twitter: @LTMusical
Instagram: @LTMusical

REVIEW: The Play That Goes Wrong at Chicago’s Oriental Theatre Through December 16th, 2018

ChiIL Live Shows on our radar

Fantastically Fun Farce, 

The Play That Goes Wrong Will Leave You 

In Stitches

My 17 year old son, Dugan, and I caught the press opening of The Play That Goes Wrong at Chicago's iconic Oriental Theatre last night, and I can attest, my abs are still aching from laughing throughout the whole show. This cast is adept at physical comedy as well as witty wordplay, slapstick, and negotiating a deathtrap set with humor and finesse. Like classic farce, numerous unusual entry and exit ways are used and physical obstacles abound. 



The cleverly constructed set... or should I say deconstructed, is a joy to see in action, and this intrepid cast works the space well. The Play That Goes Wrong is a fast paced, bumbling buffet of buffoonery that turns every actor's nightmare into energetic entertainment. What begins as minor set malfunctions, missed lighting and sound cues, late entrances, misplaced props, and bungled lines, soon escalate to major mishaps. Multiple characters are knocked out or left bleeding, poisoned, or beset by falling set pieces. 



There are fires, duals, electrical problems, combative leading ladies, runaway dogs, Duran Duran, and that cure all for everything... duct tape. The escalating gags are a hoot, even when you see them coming. 





We love the premise of building a whole show where everything goes wrong, and this one lives up to its name, before the lights even dim. The action begins during pre-show, when the house lights are still up, so put down your cell phone and watch hilarity ensue. Errors abound, on stage and off! When we first saw the upside down marquee show listing and the Playbill type setting screw up, we were hooked! 

There's never been a Broadway touring show so wrong that's done so right. The Play That Goes Wrong is nothing short of brilliant. Highly recommended. 



Broadway In Chicago is thrilled that the national tour of the Tony Award-winning hit Broadway comedy THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG opens December 5th for a limited two- week engagement at Broadway In Chicago’s Oriental Theatre (24 W Randolph St) through Sunday, December 16, 2018.



What would happen if Sherlock Holmes and Monty Python had an illegitimate Broadway baby? You’d get THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG, Broadway & London’s award-winning smash comedy! Called “A GUT-BUSTING HIT” (The New York Times) and “THE FUNNIEST PLAY BROADWAY HAS EVER SEEN” (HuffPost), this classic murder mystery is chock-full of mishaps and madcap mania delivering “A RIOTOUS EXPLOSION OF COMEDY” (Daily Beast). Welcome to opening night of The Murder at Haversham Manor where things are quickly going from bad to utterly disastrous. With an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can’t play dead, and actors who trip over everything (including their lines), it’s “TONS OF FUN FOR ALL AGES” (HuffPost) and “COMIC GOLD” (Variety) – sure to bring down the house!





Co-written by Mischief Theatre company members Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer and Henry Shields, THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG is a riotous comedy about the theatre. The play introduces The ‘Cornley University Drama Society’ who are attempting to put on a 1920s’ murder mystery, but as the title suggests, everything that can go wrong...does, as the accident-prone thespians battle on against all odds to get to their final curtain call.

The Broadway production of THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG opened at the Lyceum Theatre on April 2, 2017. The show, which was slated to close on Broadway in August of this year, will extend its run due to popular demand through January 6, 2019. By then, the Broadway production will have played 27 previews and 745 performances, making it the 2nd longest running show in the history of the Lyceum Theatre. THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG received a Tony Award for Best Set Design, Broadway.com’s Audience Choice Award for Best Play, and the Theater Fans Choice Award for Best Play.





Awarded the 2015 Olivier Award for Best New Comedy, 2014 WhatsOnStage Best New Comedy and 2015 UK BroadwayWorld Best New Play Awards, THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG is now in its fourth year in the West End, is currently on a 30 week UK tour and playing on six continents. The producers have avoided Antarctica for fear of a frosty reception.



It is a remarkable rags-to-riches story for a play which started its life at a London fringe venue with only four paying members of the public at the first performance, and has gone on to play to an audience of over 2 million people around the world.

Mischief Theatre, the Olivier Award-winning theatre company led by Artistic Director Henry Lewis and Company Director Jonathan Sayer, was founded in 2008 by a group of graduates of The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) and began as an improvised comedy group. Mischief Theatre performs across the UK and internationally with improvised and original scripted work.

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG tour is directed by Matt DiCarlo with original Broadway direction by Mark Bell, featuring set design by Nigel Hook, lighting design by Ric Mountjoy, sound design by Andy Johnson and costume design by Roberto Surace.

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG is produced on Broadway by Kevin McCollum, J.J. Abrams, Kenny Wax, Stage Presence Ltd., Catherine Schreiber, Ken Davenport, Double Gemini Productions / deRoy-Brunish, Damian Arnold / TC Beech, Greenleaf Productions / Bard-Roth, Martian Entertainment / Jack Lane / John Yonover, and Lucas McMahon.


For more information, visit www.BroadwayGoesWrong.com or follow THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram: @BwayGoesWrong

PERFORMANCE DATES
Tuesdays at 7:30PM
Wednesdays at 2PM and 7:30PM
Thursdays at 7:30PM
Fridays at 7:30PM
Saturdays at 2:00PM and 8:00PM
Sundays at 2:00PM and 7:30PM (no evening performance on Sunday, December 16)

TICKET INFORMATION
Individual tickets are on sale now and range in price from $25-$98 with a select number of premium tickets available. Tickets are available now for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710 or emailing GroupSales@BroadwayInChicago.com. For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 18 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country. A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining more than 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, Oriental Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.


Facebook @BroadwayInChicago ● Twitter @broadwaychicago ● Instagram @broadwayinchicago ● #broadwayinchicago

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG $25 TICKETS VIA FREE LOTTERY BEGIN MONDAY, DEC. 3

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

BROADWAY IN CHICAGO ANNOUNCES DIGITAL LOTTERY

FOR 20 TICKETS FOR $25 EACH FOR EVERY SHOW

TO BEGIN MONDAY, DEC. 3

ORIENTAL THEATRE

DEC. 4-17, 2018

ChiIL Mama will be out for the press opening, so check back soon for our full review.

Broadway In Chicago is delighted to announce that a digital lottery will begin Monday, Dec. 3 at 9 a.m. for the National Tour of the Tony Award-winning THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG. The show will play at Broadway In Chicago’s Oriental Theatre (24 W. Randolph) for a limited two-week engagement December 4—16, 2018.

Twenty tickets will be sold for every performance at $25 each. The lottery will happen online only the day before each performance.  Seat locations vary per performance.

HOW TO ENTER
·Visit http://www.broadwayinchicago.com/show/the-play-that-goes-wrong/
·Follow the link “Click here for details and to enter the lottery”
·Click the “Enter Now” button for the performance you want to attend.
·Fill out the entry form including the number of tickets you would like (1 or 2). Patrons will receive a confirmation email once they have validated their email (one time only) and successfully entered the lottery.
·After the lottery closes, patrons will be notified via email within minutes as to whether they have won or not.
·Winners have 60 minutes from the time the lottery closes to pay online with a credit card.
·After payment has been received, patrons can pick up tickets at the Oriental Theatre (24 W. Randolph) no sooner than 30 minutes before show time with a valid photo ID.

ADDITIONAL RULES
Limit 1 entry per person, per performance. Multiple entries will not be accepted. Patrons must be 18 years old and have a valid, non-expired photo ID that matches the names used to enter. Tickets are non-transferable. All lottery prices include a $3.00 facility fee. Ticket limits and prices displayed are at the sole discretion of the show and are subject to change without notice. Lottery prices are not valid on prior purchases. Lottery ticket offer cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. All sales final - no refunds or exchanges.  Lottery may be revoked or modified at any time without notice. No purchase necessary to enter or win.  A purchase will not improve your chances of winning.

ABOUT THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG
What would happen if Sherlock Holmes and Monty Python had an illegitimate Broadway baby?  You’d get THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG, Broadway & London’s award-winning smash comedy!  Called “A GUT-BUSTING HIT” (The New York Times) and “THE FUNNIEST PLAY BROADWAY HAS EVER SEEN” (HuffPost), this classic murder mystery is chock-full of mishaps and madcap mania delivering “A RIOTOUS EXPLOSION OF COMEDY” (Daily Beast).  Welcome to opening night of The Murder at Haversham Manor where things are quickly going from bad to utterly disastrous. With an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can’t play dead, and actors who trip over everything (including their lines), it’s “TONS OF FUN FOR ALL AGES” (HuffPost) and “COMIC GOLD” (Variety) – sure to bring down the house!

Co-written by Mischief Theatre company members Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer and Henry Shields, THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG is a riotous comedy about the theatre. The play introduces The ‘Cornley University Drama Society’ who are attempting to put on a 1920s’ murder mystery, but as the title suggests, everything that can go wrong…does, as the accident-prone thespians battle on against all odds to get to their final curtain call.

The Broadway production of THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG opened at the Lyceum Theatre on April 2, 2017. The show, which was slated to close on Broadway in August of this year, will extend its run due to popular demand through January 6, 2019. By then, the Broadway production will have played 27 previews and 745 performances, making it the 2nd longest running show in the history of the Lyceum Theatre. THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG received a Tony Award for Best Set Design, Broadway.com’s Audience Choice Award for Best Play, and the Theater Fans Choice Award for Best Play.

Awarded the 2015 Olivier Award for Best New Comedy, 2014 WhatsOnStage Best New Comedy and 2015 UK BroadwayWorld Best New Play Awards, THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG is now in its fourth year in the West End, is currently on a 30 week UK tour and playing on six continents. The producers have avoided Antarctica for fear of a frosty reception. 

It is a remarkable rags-to-riches story for a play which started its life at a London fringe venue with only four paying members of the public at the first performance, and has gone on to play to an audience of over 2 million people around the world.

Mischief Theatre, the Olivier Award-winning theatre company led by Artistic Director Henry Lewis and Company Director Jonathan Sayer, was founded in 2008 by a group of graduates of The London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) and began as an improvised comedy group. Mischief Theatre performs across the UK and internationally with improvised and original scripted work.

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG tour is directed by Matt DiCarlo with original Broadway direction by Mark Bell, featuring set design by Nigel Hook, lighting design by Ric Mountjoy, sound design by Andy Johnson and costume design by Roberto Surace.

THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG is produced on Broadway by Kevin McCollum, J.J. Abrams, Kenny Wax, Stage Presence Ltd., Catherine Schreiber, Ken Davenport, Double Gemini Productions / deRoy-Brunish, Damian Arnold / TC Beech, Greenleaf Productions / Bard-Roth, Martian Entertainment / Jack Lane / John Yonover, and Lucas McMahon.

For more information, visit www.BroadwayGoesWrong.com or follow
THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram: @BwayGoesWrong

PERFORMANCE DATES 
Tuesdays at 7:30PM
Wednesdays at 2PM and 7:30PM (no matinee performance on Wednesday, December 5)
Thursdays at 7:30PM
Fridays at 7:30PM
Saturdays at 2:00PM and 8:00PM
Sundays at 2:00PM and 7:30PM (no evening performance on Sunday, December 16)

TICKET INFORMATION
Individual tickets are on sale now and range in price from $25-$98 with a select number of premium tickets available. Tickets are available now for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710 or emailing GroupSales@BroadwayInChicago.com.  For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 18 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country.  A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining more than 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, Oriental Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University.   For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Facebook @BroadwayInChicago ● Twitter @broadwaychicago ● Instagram @broadwayinchicago ● #broadwayinchicago

OPENING: The Play That Goes Wrong December 4-6th at Chicago's Oriental Theatre

ChiIL Live Shows on our radar

December 4-6th at Chicago's Oriental Theatre

Find out more info and order your tickets HERE.

THE ORIENTAL THEATRE TO HONOR JAMES M. NEDERLANDER AND HIS BROADWAY LEGACY IN CHICAGO WITH FEBRUARY 2019 NAME CHANGE

BROADWAY IN CHICAGO

HONORS THE LATE 
JAMES M. NEDERLANDER 

BY RENAMING THE ORIENTAL THEATRE

Over the past decade that I've been reviewing theatre in Chicago, and for twenty years before that as a performer and theatre fan, I've enjoyed numerous productions at Chicago's iconic Oriental Theatre. It's my favorite for ornate decor and mythical creatures, not to mention some of Broadway in Chicago's finest pre-Broadway world premiers and touring shows. As of February 2019 it will be sporting a new name with a long legacy, the JAMES M. NEDERLANDER THEATRE. 

Broadway In Chicago proudly announced their plans to honor the late James M. Nederlander, the legendary Broadway theatre owner and producer, patriarch of Broadway and champion of Chicago’s Downtown Theatre District, by renaming the Oriental Theatre as the JAMES M. NEDERLANDER THEATRE. As founder of Broadway In Chicago, it is appropriate for the name James M. Nederlander to grace the marquee of Chicago’s iconic theatre at 24 W. Randolph. The new marquee and signage will be unveiled as the NEDERLANDER THEATRE, on Tuesday, February 12, 2019, with the opening of DEAR EVAN HANSEN.   

“In 1954, James M. Nederlander had faith in Chicago as a long-run theatre town and has supported Chicago getting the best of Broadway since then. He brought his shows to the finest theatres in Chicago including the Blackstone, the Studebaker, the Shubert and the Michael Todd, and in creating Broadway In Chicago, changed the landscape of Chicago theatre, making this great city one of the most successful commercial homes for Broadway outside of New York. Renaming the theatre gives us a way to say thank you and to acknowledge the extraordinary difference he made for Chicago in his lifetime,” Lou Raizin, President of Broadway In Chicago, said.

Upcoming productions for the new NEDERLANDER THEATRE include DEAR EVAN HANSEN (Feb. 12 – March 10, 2019), A BRONX TALE (March 12 - 24, 2019), ANASTASIA (March 26 - April 7, 2019), TAP DOGS (April 16 - April 21, 2019), RENT 20th Anniversary Tour (May 10 - 19, 2019), FALSETTOS (May 28 - June 9, 2019) and CATS (July 16 - August 4, 2019).

James L. Nederlander, now president of The Nederlander Organization, said, “The renaming of the theatre on Randolph, in honor of my father, is something he would have been so proud of, as he had a love for Chicago that manifested in his steadfast support of Chicago’s theatre community until the day he died. I am lucky to have inherited his love for Chicago and I am moved by this acknowledgement of his work on Broadway and his commitment to Chicago as a beacon for theatre across the country.”

ABOUT JAMES M. NEDERLANDER
1922-2016
The late James M. Nederlander was a visionary theatrical impresario who built his family business into one of the largest private live entertainment companies in the world that now encompasses venue ownership and management, theatrical producing and concert presentation, merchandising, concessions and patron services, including Broadway In Chicago.

Beloved by the industry, Jimmy produced over 100 of the most acclaimed Broadway musicals and plays. He was the recipient of many distinguished honors including the United Nations Foundation Champion Award (2012), The Broadway League's Schoenfeld Vision for Arts Education Award (2010), the New York Pop's Man of the Year (2008), the Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement (2004), The Actors' Fund Medal of Honor (2002), The Broadway League's Distinguished Lifetime Service Award (2002), United Jewish Appeal-New York Federations' Bernard B. Jacobs Excellence in the Theatre Award (1997) and the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, located outside the Pantages Theatre at 6233 Hollywood Blvd. In 2009, the National High School Musical Theatre Award was established and named the Jimmy to celebrate his career-long dedication to supporting young talent.

In Chicago, he is responsible for bringing hundreds of shows to Chicago since 1954.  After creating Broadway In Chicago in 2000, he was able to lure long-run shows to Chicago beginning with the success of WICKED and its three-and-a-half-year run, followed by two and a half years of JERSEY BOYS, a year of LION KING, and many more and including the current run of HAMILTON for over two years. As a legendary theatrical producer, he was able to establish Chicago as a breeding-ground for Pre-Broadway including the premieres of THE PRODUCERS, SPAMALOT, MOVIN OUT, KINKY BOOTS, to name only a few, and most recently PRETTY WOMAN THE MUSICAL and TOOTSIE.  For more information about the Nederlander Organization or James M. Nederlander, visit www.nederlander.com

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 18 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country.  A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining over 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, Oriental Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Facebook @BroadwayInChicago ● Twitter @broadwaychicago ● Instagram @broadwayinchicago ● #broadwayinchicago

Tickets On Sale: THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL JANUARY 8 – 13, 2019

ChiIL Live Shows on our radar

NATIONAL TOUR LAUNCHING IN CHICAGO

BROADWAY IN CHICAGO’S ORIENTAL THEATRE

THE MUSICAL ADAPTATION OF THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL

JANUARY 8 – 13, 2019

TICKETS GO ON SALE FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9

Here at ChiIL Mama, our family has read all the Percy Jackson books and seen all the movies. Now we're ready to check out Percy Jackson on stage, in this new musical adaptation for the stage, launching their national tour in Chicago. Tickets are on sale now, so don't wait till it's too late. THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL is in town for one week only! 

Broadway In Chicago is delighted to announce tickets for THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL, an “electrifying” (Newsday) musical adaption of The New York Times best-selling novel written by Rick Riordan, will go on sale on Friday, November 9. THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL will launch its national tour at Broadway In Chicago’s Oriental Theatre (24 W. Randolph) for a limited one-week engagement January 8 – 13, 2019.

With more than 100 million copies of the book series sold worldwide, this global phenomenon has found a new home on the live stage in a "mesmerizing" theatrical event that proves "lightning can strike twice!" (TheaterMania).  Following a sold-out run in New York City, where it garnered 3 Drama Desk Award nominations, including Best Musical, this "winning adaptation" (The Hollywood Reporter) is coming to rock Chicago.  

As a son of Poseidon, Percy Jackson has newly discovered powers he can’t control, monsters on his trail, and is on a quest to find Zeus’ lightning bolt to prevent a war between the Greek gods.  Based on the best-selling novel by Rick Riordan and featuring a thrilling original rock score, THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL is an action-packed theatrical adventure that has been celebrated by audiences and critics alike.

THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL has a Drama Desk nominated book by Joe Tracz, music and lyrics by Rob Rokicki, and is directed by Stephen Brackett, with choreography by Patrick McCollum, with set design by Lee Savage, costume design by Sydney Maresca, Obie award winning sound design by Ryan Rumery, lighting design by David Lander, fight direction by Rod Kinter and orchestrations by Wiley DeWeese and Rob Rokicki. The production is being presented by special arrangement with Rick Riordan and the Gallt & Zacker Literary Agency.

THE LIGHTNING THIEF: THE PERCY JACKSON MUSICAL is produced by Theaterworks USA, Martian Entertainment, Greg Schaffert Productions, Lang Entertainment Group and in partnership with The Road Company.



Official show site:             http://www.lightningthiefmusical.com
Facebook:                        http://www.facebook.com/LightningThiefMusical
Twitter:                           http://www.twitter.com/LTMusical
Instagram                       http://www.instagram.com/LTMusical


PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE
Tuesday, Jan. 8 at 7:30PM
Wednesday, Jan. 9 at 2:00PM & 7:30PM
Thursday, Jan. 10 at 7:30PM
Friday, Jan. 11 at 7:30PM
Saturday, Jan. 12 at 2:00PM & 8:00PM                                                                                                                                   
Sunday, Jan. 13 at 2:00PM

TICKET INFORMATION
Individual tickets will go on-sale to the public on Nov. 9, 2018 and range in price from $25-$80 with a select number of premium tickets available. Tickets are available now for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710 or emailing GroupSales@BroadwayInChicago.com.  For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com. 

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 18 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country.  A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining more than 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, Oriental Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University.
For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com.

Facebook @BroadwayInChicago ● Twitter @broadwaychicago ● Instagram @broadwayinchicago ● #broadwayinchicago

THEATERWORKS USA (Barbara Pasternack, Artistic Director; Michael Harrington, Managing Director) is America’s foremost professional not-for-profit theater company dedicated to creating exceptional, transformative theatrical experiences for young and family audiences in diverse communities throughout New York City and North America. Since 1961, the company has captured the imaginations of 100 million new and veteran theatergoers with an award-winning repertoire of over 130 original plays and musicals. Acclaimed creative alumni include Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez (Disney’s Frozen), Jerry Zaks (Hello, Dolly!), Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (Dear Evan Hansen), Tina Landau (SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical), and Michael Mayer (Spring Awakening). www.twusa.org.
 ​ 
MARTIAN ENTERTAINMENT is a Tony Award-winning theatrical production and general management company owned and operated by Carl D. White and Gregory Rae, and Associate Producer Tyrus Emory.  Credits include: The Normal Heart (Tony Award); Hedwig and the Angry Inch (Tony Award); Kinky Boots (Tony Award); The Play That Goes Wrong (Broadway); Priscilla Queen of the Desert; Gore Vidal's The Best Man; A Clockwork Orange; Bare the Musical; The Temperamentals; [title of show]; Potted Potter; Naked Boys Singing!; Altar Boyz; Immediate Family; and many others.  Film/TV projects include the feature film musical Hello Again; and the award-winning TV pilot "Sox News."  MartianEntertainment.com  @MartianEntNYC

GREG SCHAFFERT PRODUCTIONS: Greg is a Tony Award winning producer with over 30 years of experience working in every facet of the theatre. Producing credits: Peter and the Starcatcher (5 Tony Awards); All Shook Up; Burn the Floor; Bat Boy The Musical; Striking 12; Shear Madness; Analog & Vinyl; Three Musketeers; No Wake; Magnetic North; Great Wall; The Girl in the Frame, and many others. In development: Bat Boy revival; Atlantis; Something in the Game; Looking for Christmas; The Singing River;Painted Alice; Hot Mess in Manhattan. gregschaffert.com

LANG ENTERTAINMENT GROUP Victoria Lang has enjoyed a wide-ranging producing career in theatre, film and television. Broadway: Sylvia,1984, Private Lives, A View From The Bridge, (Tony nomination), Joseph…Dreamcoat (Tony nomination), The Little Foxes, Peter Pan and more.   Off-Broadway and Tours: Found (Atlantic Theatre Co., Philadelphia Theatre Co.),Silence! The Musical! (Best Musical: Off Broadway Alliance Award, Top 5 Musicals: Time Magazine), Matt & Ben (Top 5 Plays: Time Magazine), SHOUT! The Mod Musical, Johnny Guitar (Outer Critics Circle Award), Listen to My Heart: The Songs of David Friedman (Drama Desk nomination), Girls Night! The Musical and Divorce Party The Musical. West End:  Funny Girl (Olivier nomination), SHOUT!, Bat Boy. Television: Live With Regis & Kathie Lee (3 Emmy nominations), Specials for PBS and A&E. Film: Macbeth in Manhattan (Winner:S.Beach & LI Film Festivals), Perfect Lies, Dark Tides, Chao Theory & more.

THE ROAD COMPANY was founded in 1997 by Stephen Lindsay and Brett Sirota. In addition to The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical current representation includes Wicked, Charlie and The Chocolate Factory, War Paint, The Band’s Visit, SpongeBob SquarePants, A Clockwork Orange, The Sound of Music, The Illusionists, Dirty Dancing, Kinky Boots, and Elf the Musical

SAVE THE DATES: Chicago debut of ANASTASIA at Broadway In Chicago’s Oriental Theatre MARCH 26 - APRIL 7, 2019

Chi IL Live Shows On Our Radar:

ANASTASIA

JOURNEYS TO BROADWAY IN CHICAGO’S 

ORIENTAL THEATRE

CHICAGO PREMIERE ENGAGEMENT

MARCH 26 - APRIL 7, 2019

“A sweeping adventure!” – Time Out New York

“Intelligent and exhilarating!” –The Wall Street Journal

Broadway In Chicago and the producers of ANASTASIA are delighted to announce that ANASTASIA, the romantic and adventure-filled new musical inspired by beloved films, will make its Chicago debut at Broadway In Chicago’s Oriental Theatre (24 W. Randolph) for a limited two-week engagement March 26 through April 7, 2019. ANASTASIA will be part of Broadway In Chicago’s upcoming season. Subscriptions will go on sale in the fall of 2018.

ANASTASIA will join the line-up of performances at the annual Broadway In Chicago Summer Concert, sponsored by ABC 7 Chicago and hosted by Janet Davies, ABC 7 Chicago’s entertainment reporter and host of the entertainment and lifestyle program 190 NORTH on ABC 7. The Broadway In Chicago Summer Concert will take place on Monday, August 13, 2018 at 6:15 p.m. at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion at Millennium Park (201 E Randolph St).

From the Tony Award®-winning creators of the Broadway classic Ragtime, ANASTASIA is a dazzling new show that transports us from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing conman and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love, and family. 

This 2017 Broadway hit features book by celebrated playwright Terrence McNally, a lush new score by Stephen Flaherty (music) and Lynn Ahrens (lyrics) that features favorites "Journey to the Past” and “Once Upon a December,” and direction by Tony Award® winner Darko Tresnjak. 

For more information, visit www.anastasiabroadway.com/tour/

TICKET INFORMATION
Tickets are available now for groups of 10 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710 or emailing GroupSales@BroadwayInChicago.com.  Individual tickets for ANASTASIA will go on-sale at a later date.  For more information, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com. 

ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 18 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country.  A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining more than 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, Oriental Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University.

Facebook @BroadwayInChicago ● Twitter @broadwaychicago ● Instagram @broadwayinchicago ● #broadwayinchicago

Wicked Good Deal: $25 Day of Show Ticket Lottery at Block 37

WICKED ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF THE DAY OF SHOW DRAWING FOR $25 TICKETS

20 TICKETS HELD FOR EACH PERFORMANCE AT BLOCK 37

BY STEPHEN SCHWARTZ AND WINNIE HOLZMAN

BASED ON THE NOVEL BY GREGORY MAGUIRE

ORIENTAL THEATRE

DEC. 6, 2017 - JAN. 21, 2018

Want to catch Broadway In Chicago's WICKED without breaking the bank? My family entered this lottery a few years back and WON 2 pairs of front row tickets for $25 a seat (cash only)! So it is doable. Chances of being picked of course depend on turnout for any given show, but you've gotta be in it to win it, and it certainly doesn't hurt to try. Ticket lottery is free to enter. 

Broadway In Chicago is delighted to announce that a WICKED day-of-show drawing for a limited number of seats will take place inside Block 37. Throughout the run of the show on each performance day, people can pick up entry forms at the Block 37 guest services booth during business hours up until two hours prior to the performance. Entry forms are placed into the WICKED hat, one entry per person. Names will be drawn two hours before each performance for twenty seats at $25 each, cash only.

This drawing is available only in-person at Block 37 with a limit of two tickets per person. Drawing participants must have a valid photo ID when submitting their entry form and, if chosen, when purchasing tickets. Block 37 is located at 108 N. State across from the Oriental Theatre (24 W. Randolph). Chicago’s most popular musical will return to Broadway In Chicago’s Oriental Theatre during the holiday season for a limited seven-week engagement December 6, 2017 - January 21, 2018.

Mary Kate Morrissey returns to the WICKED National Tour as Elphaba after touring as the Elphaba standby in 2016. Off-Broadway: David Byrne’s Joan of Arc: Into the Fire (The Public Theater), Tamar of the River (Prospect Theater). International tour: Hair as Sheila. Regional: Elmer Gantry (Signature Theatre), Lizzie: The Musical (Portland Center Stage), Little Women (Syracuse Stage) and the workshop of Fun Home (Sundance Lab). Syracuse University.

Ginna Claire Mason comes directly from playing the Glinda standby on Broadway to play Glinda in the National Tour. National tour: Newsies (Katherine u/s), Flashdance (Gloria). Vegas: Duck Commander Musical (Korie). Regional favorites include Thoroughly Modern Millie (Millie), Grease (Sandy), Hairspray (Shelley). NYC concerts: How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying (Rosemary). Recently performed in Japan at the World Musical Concert. B.F.A., Elon University.

The company includes Judy Kay as Madame Morrible, Tom McGowan as The Wizard, Harry Bouvy as Doctor Dillamond, Catherine Charlebois as Nessarose, Robin De Jesús as Boq, John Robert Hall as Fiyero, and Chelsea Emma Franko, Deanna Aguinaga-Whyte, Allison Bailey, Kerry Blanchard, Beka Burnham, Lauren Cannon, Autumn Crockett Cooper, Michael Di Liberto, Michael Drolet, Ryan Patrick Farrell,  Napoleon W. Gladney, Sara Gonzales, Lauren Haughton, Chris Jarosz, John Krause, Kelly Lafarga, Chase Madigan, Tiffany Rae Mallari, Matt Meigs, Olivia Polci, Anthony Sagaria, Wayne Schroder, Tregoney Shepherd, Ben Susak and Justin Wirick.

With music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz (Pippin, Godspell, Academy Award®-winner for Pocahontas and The Prince of Egypt) and book by Winnie Holzman (“My So Called Life,” “Once And Again” and “thirtysomething”), WICKED is directed by two-time Tony® Award winner Joe Mantello (Take Me Out, Love! Valour! Compassion!, The Vagina Monologues) and features musical staging by Tony® Award winner Wayne Cilento (Aida, The Who’s Tommy, How To Succeed…). The musical is based on the best-selling 1995 novel by Gregory Maguire.

The Broadway sensation, WICKED, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle.  Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emerald-green skin, who is smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “wicked.”

With a thrilling score that includes the hits “Defying Gravity,” “Popular” and “For Good,” WICKED has been hailed by The New York Times as “the defining musical of the decade,” and by Time Magazine as “a magical Broadway musical with brains, heart, and courage.” 

Winner of over 100 international awards including the Grammy Award and three Tony Awards, WICKED has been performed in over 100 cities in 15 countries around the world (U.S., Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland, Japan, Germany, Holland, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, The Philippines, China, Mexico, and Brazil) and has thus far been translated into six languages: Japanese, German, Dutch, Spanish, Korean, and Portuguese. 

Grammy Award-Winning Cast recording available on Decca Broadway. For more information about WICKED log on to www.wickedthemusical.com or www.BroadwayInChicago.com. Follow WICKED on Twitter and Facebook.

CAST BIOGRAPHIES
MARY KATE MORRISSEY (Elphaba) is air­borne with excitement to return to this electric company after touring as the Elphaba Standby in 2016. Off-Broadway: David Byrne’s Joan of Arc: Into the Fire (The Public Theater), Tamar of the River (Prospect Theater). International tour: Hair as Sheila. Regional: Elmer Gantry (Signature Theatre), Lizzie: The Musical (Portland Center Stage), Little Women (Syracuse Stage) and the workshop of Fun Home (Sundance Lab). Syracuse University. “Epic thanks: Christopher Freer and CGF, Craig Burns, Matt Farnsworth and my friends and family. For TC, Mom and Dad. Never underestimate the power of listening, beauty and beat drops.” @maryspacekate.

GINNA CLAIRE MASON (Glinda) is thrillified to travel by bubble with Wicked on tour! She comes directly from Broadway as the Glinda standby. National tour: Newsies (Katherine u/s), Flashdance (Gloria). Vegas: Duck Commander Musical (Korie). Regional favorites include Thoroughly Modern Millie (Millie), Grease (Sandy), Hairspray (Shelley). NYC concerts: How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying (Rosemary). Recently performed in Japan at the World Musical Concert. B.F.A., Elon University. Many thanks to DGRW, Telsey + Co. and the Wicked creative team. “For mom and dad and my Prince Eric.” Instagram/Twitter: @ginnaclaire.

JUDY KAYE (Madame Morrible) joins the tour after having played Madame Morrible on Broadway. Other Broadway: Nice Work If You Can Get It (Tony Award, Drama Desk Award, Outer Critics Circle Award); Souvenir (Tony nomination, L.A. Ovation Award); The Phantom of the Opera (Tony Award); Mamma Mia! (Tony nomination); Ragtime (L.A. Ovation Award); On the Twentieth Century (TheatreWorld Award); Grease; Oh, Brother; Cinderella; Candide (NYCO); The Pajama Game (NYCO); Brigadoon (NYCO); Bells Are Ringing; Face the Music; Little Me (Encores!). For more: JudyKaye.com.

TOM McGOWAN (The Wizard). Broadway: Wicked, She Loves Me, Casa Valentina, Chicago, Ivanov, La Bete (Tony and Drama Desk noms.). Off-Broadway: The Food Chain (Obie). West End: Wicked. Television: Uncle Jax on “The Good Fight,” Kenny on “Frasier,” Bernie on “Everybody Loves Raymond,” “Veep,” “Modern Family,” “CSI,” “ER,” “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” Film: Freeheld, The Birdcage, Heavyweights, Ghost World, Bad Santa, As Good As It Gets, Bean, Family Man. M.F.A., Yale. B.F.A., Hofstra. Thanks to daughter, Mary, for introducing him to Wicked when she and her best friend, Sara, spent the entire summer of ’04 playing Glinda and Elphaba in the backyard.

HARRY BOUVY (Doctor Dillamond). Off-Broadway: Silence! The Musical (original cast re­cording). Tour: The Producers. Vegas: Spamalot. Regional: Yale Rep, St. Louis Rep, Cincinnati Playhouse, Actors Theatre of Louisville, Pittsburgh Public, City Theatre Company, TheaterWorks Hartford, Montana Shakespeare, Arrow Rock Lyceum, Drury Lane Oakbrook, Syracuse Stage. Film: The Producers. Television: “The Good Wife,” “Law & Order,” “Sex and the City.” For Sean, always and all ways. harrybouvy.com.

CATHERINE CHARLEBOIS (Nessarose). Broadway and national tour: Wicked (Nessarose). Regional : Beauty and the Beast (Belle) at Ogunquit Playhouse, Music Theatre Wichita and North Carolina Theatre; Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Milly) at Music Theatre Wichita; Steel Magnolias (Shelby) at Triad Stage. Catherine can be seen in the parody video Downton Abbey at 54 Below as Lady Mary Crawley and Michelle Dockery. Catherine is also a style blogger: follow along at CharleboisChic.com and on social media @CharleboisNYC!

ROBIN DE JESÚS (Boq). Broadway: In the Heights (Tony nomination, Drama Desk Award), La Cage aux Folles (Tony, Drama Desk nomina­tions), Rent. Select Off-Broadway and regional: Domesticated (Lincoln Center), In the Heights, Patti Issues, Cabaret, Aladdin, Two Gentlemen of Verona, Grease and Homos, Or…. Select film: Camp, HairBrained, Gun Hill Road, Elliot Loves, 11:55 Holyoke, Fat Girls. Select TV: “Law & Order: SVU,” “How to Make It in America.” Cabaret: Crush to Crushed, The Struggle is Real (54 Below). Tweet and Instagram @RobinOfJesus.

JON ROBERT HALL (Fiyero) is a Los Angeles native. He recently played Tom Chisum in the Emmy Award-winning “Grease: Live!” on Fox, as well as recurring on “Glee.” He also played Stacee Jaxx in the Vegas production of Rock of Ages at the Venetian. In addition, Jon produces music for young social media stars and helps develop them. His company HallPass Productions is an L.A. staple for many of the heavy-hitting kids in the social media world. Go to his website or DM for ways to work with him. Jonroberthall.com. Insta/twitter/Musical.ly: @jonhall28 and @hallpassproductions.

CHELSEA EMMA FRANKO (Standby for Elphaba) is ecstatic to be making her national tour debut with Wicked. Most recently, she was Live at the Hyperion in Disney’s California Adventure. Favorite regional credits: Company (Marta), Damn Yankees (Gloria Thorpe), Meet Me in St. Louis (Esther), Oklahoma! (Ado Annie), Monty Python’s Spamalot (Lady of the Lake), Chicago (Roxie Hart), Hairspray, Sunset Boulevard and Shrek. For mum, dad and SRO. @thechelseaemma.

DEANNA AGUINAGA-WHYTE (Assistant Dance Captain, Swing). Broadway: Mamma Mia! West Side Story, A Chorus Line. Tours: Fame the Musical, Evita, Radio City Christmas Spectacular. B.A. sociology, Cal State University of Long Beach and 200 Hour Yoga Alliance Certification. “Love and gratitude to husband Blake and our daughter Kya for sharing this Wicked dream adventure.”

ALLISON BAILEY (Ensemble, u/s Glinda). National tour debut! Regional credits: Goodspeed and New London Barn Playhouse. The Boston Conservatory ’14. “Thanks to God and much love to my family, DGRW and Telsey + Co.” Allison-Bailey.com.

KERRY BLANCHARD (Ensemble) is so happy to be a part of Wicked. Thanks to everyone at Wicked, Telsey and MSA. “All my love to my wonderful family and amazing friends for their never-ending support, love and laughter.”

BEKA BURNHAM (Ensemble, u/s Glinda, Nessarose). Back in Oz! Previously with the com­pany for almost two years. BoCo ’14. “Love and thanks to Craig/Telsey, DGRW, my Wicked fam­ily, Mom and Dad and especially my pup Root.”

LAUREN CANNON (Ensemble). Thrilled to be in Oz! Credits include West Side Story (nat’l/int’l/Ogunquit Playhouse), Radio City Christmas Spectacular and recently seen on the 2016 Tony Awards. “Love to my family.” @L_cannon.

AUTUMN CROCKETT COOPER (Ensemble). Credits include Rihanna, LeAnn Rimes, Billy Gilman, CeCe Winans, I Kissed a Vampire (film), “America’s Got Talent,” CW’s “The 100,” Cirque de la Symphonie, Odyssey Dance Theatre, Eclipse, Frozen Live, La Mirada Theatre production of Cats and West Side Story.

MICHAEL DI LIBERTO (Swing, u/s Witch’s Father, Ozian Official, The Wizard, Dr. Dillamond). National tours: Annie, Cinderella, Strike Up the Band. Select regional: The Producers (Helen Hayes nomination), Sweeney Todd, Elf, Oliver!, LMNOP, Spamalot, The 39 Steps, Titanic. MichaelDiLiberto.net

MICHAEL DROLET (Ensemble, u/s Boq). Broadway: Wicked. National tours: Wicked—L.A. cast (Boq), Saturday Night Fever (Vinnie). Regional: Peter Pan—Dorset Theatre Festival (Peter Pan), Of Mice and Men—Palace Theatre (Curley), Cyrano—Fulton Opera House. TV: “The Tonight Show.” B.F.A.: University of the Arts. Follow him on Instagram and Twitter: @michael_drolet.

RYAN PATRICK FARRELL (Ensemble, u/s Chistery). A Michigan native. Began danc­ing at age 8. Ryan is thrilled to join Wicked on tour. Credits include Wicked (Chicago), Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Cats national tour (Mistoffelees), Copacabana (Mill Mountain), Princess Cruises, Chase Brock Experience (Joyce Soho) and Boyz II Men. Love to Mom and Dad.

NAPOLEON W. GLADNEY (Dance Captain, Swing, u/s Chistery). B.F.A. dance performance, Chapman University. Select credits include Wicked first/second nat’l tours, Me & Caesar Lee (Chor.), Odyssey Dance Theatre European tour, Backhaus Dance, “The Late Late Show,” “Good Morning America” and The Dance Cartel. @napogladney.

SARA GONZALES (Ensemble, u/s Madame Morrible). Webster University B.F.A. in musical theater. Regional: Bridget in Bring It On (L.A.), Daniela in In the Heights (L.A.) and more. Award-winning jazz vocalist, performing internationally at IAJE in Toronto, Monterey Jazz Festival and 54 Below. Saragonzales.weebly.com.

LAUREN HAUGHTON (Swing, u/s Nessarose). Broadway: Wicked. Off-Broadway: Fools in Love. Regional favorites: Sammy with Leslie Bricusse (Old Globe Theatre), Turn of the Century with Tommy Tune (Goodman Theatre). B.F.A.: musi­cal theater, Syracuse University. Thanks to Mom, Dad, the Gillis family. “Je t’aime Michael.” IG: @laurenhaughton. Website: laurenhaughton.com.

CHRIS JAROSZ (Ensemble). La La Land, “Glee,” Radio City’s New York Spectacular, Cirque du Soleil, “SYTYCD.” Excited to be joining the national tour of Wicked. “Love to my Mom, Dad and my MSA family.”

JOHN KRAUSE (Ensemble, u/s Fiyero, Witch’s Father, Ozian Official). Broadway: Fun Home. Off-Broadway: Camp Rolling Hills. Tour/regional: Green Day’s American Idiot, Drew in Rock of Ages (Vegas) and Cruel Intentions: The Musical (L.A.).The Boston Conservatory. Instagram/Twitter: @johnakrause.

KELLY LAFARGA (Swing) feels honored to join Wicked. Film: Step Up 2: The Streets, Step Up 3D. TV: “Glee,” “Bones,” “How I Met Your Mother,” “DWTS.” Tours: Eve, Donnie Klang. Marymount Manhattan College. Thanks Mom, Nina, and Sasha for their endless love and sup­port. “Dad, I love and miss you always.”

CHASE MADIGAN (Chistery). West Side Story (Broadway), Radio City Christmas Spectacular, The New York Spectacular, Rock the Ballet (inter­national tour). Thrilled to be joining the national tour of Wicked! Love to Mom and Dad!

TIFFANY RAE MALLARI (Ensemble) has been lucky to perform for the past 10 years. Some accomplishments include High School Musical 3, Cirque du Soleil’s Viva! Elvis and Disneyland’s California Adventure.

MATT MEIGS (Ensemble, u/s Boq). Broadway: Holiday Inn, Tuck Everlasting, Matilda. Vegas: Rock of Ages (Franz). National tour: Mary Poppins. “For mom—who taught me to live with an open heart and open mind.” @matt_meigs.

OLIVIA POLCI (Ensemble, u/s Elphaba) re­cently completed two solo shows at Feinstein’s/54 Below in New York City. Other credits in­clude The Threepenny Opera (Jenny), Wendy’s Shadow (Young Wendy) and Foolerie (Kate). Thanks to Telsey + Co., her family and friends. B.F.A. in musical theater from Montclair State University. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter: @oliviafpolci.

ANTHONY SAGARIA (Ensemble, u/s Fiyero). Broadway: American Psycho. NYC/regional: The Bad Years, Murder Ballad, Into the Woods. TV/film: “OITNB,” “Madam Secretary,” Block Island. Thanks to family, SMS, BWU, Telsey + Co. Twitter/Instagram: @Anthony_Sagaria.

WAYNE SCHRODER (Witch’s Father, Ozian Official, u/s The Wizard, Doctor Dillamond). Broadway: 9 to 5, A Christmas Carol. Tours: 9 to 5. Off-Broadway: The Prince and the Pauper, Mimi le Duck. Film: The Producers, Brando, Welcome Home. Television: “Guiding Light,” “All My Children.” Concert: Kristina at Carnegie Hall and Royal Albert Hall in London.

TREGONEY SHEPHERD (Midwife, u/s Madame Morrible) is excited to make her home in Munchkinland. Broadway: Been there. National tours: Done that. Regional theater: Check. One woman shows: Check again. Education: D.M.A. vocal performance. Love to Lafayette. TregoneyShepherd.com.

BEN SUSAK (Swing, u/s Chistery) is very grate­ful to be back with the Munchkinland family! Credits: Cirque du Soleil, “SYTYCD,” Lady Gaga, Britney Spears, Florence + the Machine, Ke$ha, Kelly Clarkson, “American Music Awards,” “Video Music Awards,” “Billboard Awards,” “DWTS,” “American Idol,” San Francisco Ballet.

JUSTIN WIRICK (Ensemble). Joined Jan. 2010. 3,000+ performances. 20 Green Girls. Denizen of Pittsburgh, Pa. Travel enthusiast: eight plus years of touring, 50 states, eight provinces, 15 countries. Passions/hobbies: Wicked, gymnastics, figure skat­ing, fundraising, event coordinating, photography, motivational speaking. “Success is where prepara­tion and opportunity meet.” Adventures and full bio on Insta @justinwirick88.

TICKET INFORMATION
Individual tickets for WICKED at the Oriental Theatre range from $62-$212 with a select number of premium seats available. Tickets are available now for groups of 15 or more by calling Broadway In Chicago Group Sales at (312) 977-1710.  Tickets are available at all Broadway In Chicago Box Offices (24 W. Randolph St., 151 W. Randolph St., 18 W. Monroe St. and 175 E. Chestnut), the Broadway In Chicago Ticket Line at (800) 775-2000 and online.



ABOUT BROADWAY IN CHICAGO
Broadway In Chicago was created in July 2000 and over the past 17 years has grown to be one of the largest commercial touring homes in the country.  A Nederlander Presentation, Broadway In Chicago lights up the Chicago Theater District entertaining well up to 1.7 million people annually in five theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents a full range of entertainment, including musicals and plays, on the stages of five of the finest theatres in Chicago’s Loop including the Cadillac Palace Theatre, CIBC Theatre, Oriental Theatre, and just off the Magnificent Mile, the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place and presenting Broadway shows at The Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University.