SAVE THE DATES: THE HOUSE THEATRE OF CHICAGO ANNOUNCES THE 18TH SEASON OF ORIGINAL PLAYS

ChiIL Live Shows on our radar

THE HOUSE THEATRE OF CHICAGO ANNOUNCES THE 18TH SEASON OF ORIGINAL PLAYS 

FEATURING THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE HIT HOLIDAY PRODUCTION, 

THE NUTCRACKER, 

A WORLD PREMIERE AND THE CONTINUED SUCCESSFUL OPEN RUN OF 

THE MAGIC PARLOUR

The House Theatre of Chicago is proud to announce its productions for the 18th season. The 2019 – 2020 Season will include the 10th anniversary production of The House’s original ballet-free production of The Nutcracker, November 7 – December 29; the world-premiere of Brett Neveu’s Verböten, January 16 – March 8, 2020; Shakespeare’s Henry V, directed by The House’s Artistic Director Nathan Allen, March 19 – May 10, 2020. The Magic Parlour, featuring magician Dennis Watkins, will continue its open run at The Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel. Subscriptions and Tickets may be purchased by calling (773) 769-3832 or by visiting www.thehousetheatre.com.   

Memberships for the 18th season are now available. To purchase memberships or for more information, please visit www.thehousetheatre.com or call the box office at (773) 769-3832. Single tickets for Season 18 productions go on sale starting August 1.

The House’s 18th Season is supported by The MacArthur Fund for Arts and Culture at Prince. ComEd is the Official Lighting Sponsor of The House Theatre of Chicago. This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency.

The House Theatre of Chicago’s 18th Season includes:

The Nutcracker
10th Anniversary Production
Created by Company Members Jake Minton, Phillip Klapperich, Kevin O'Donnell, and Tommy Rapley
Based on the story by E.T.A. Hoffmann
Direction and Choreography by Company Member Tommy Rapley

November 7 – December 29
PRESS OPENING: Friday, Nov. 15 at 7:30 p.m.
Chopin Upstairs Theatre, 1543 W. Division Street 

Celebrating a full decade of making holiday memories with more than 30,000 audience members, The House brings this wholly original, ballet-free show back for its 10th Anniversary production. Appearing again at the Chopin Theatre, and featuring all new puppets, The Nutcracker is fast-paced, beautifully choreographed, family-friendly, and moving, even for those of us that might be on the Grinch’s side from time to time.

This fantastical expansion of the holiday classic centers on young Clara’s journey to save Christmas in the face of grief. With the help of a magical nutcracker, the brave girl risks the darkness, fights the Rat King, and saves her family. A modern holiday tradition weaving together riveting dialogue, astonishing puppetry, original songs, this spellbinding spectacle tells a heartwarming, darkly moving story of magic and hope—a fun outing fit for the whole family.

Verböten
A story about how punk saves lives
Music and Lyrics by Jason Narducy
Book by Brett Neveu
Directed by Artistic Director Nathan Allen

January 16 – March 8, 2020
PRESS OPENING: Sunday, Jan. 26, 2020 at 7 p.m.
Chopin Upstairs Theatre, 1543 W. Division Street
Production Sponsor: The Poetry Foundation

1983. Chicago. It’s do-or-die for Verböten—a band made up of outsider teens with seriously complex home lives. As they gear up for a show at The Cubby Bear that is sure to change their lives forever, can they keep their parents from destroying the fabric of their self-made punk rock family? With lyrics and music by Verböten’s original guitarist Jason Narducy (Split Single, Superchunk, Bob Mould) and book by Brett Neveu (Odradek, Pilgrim's Progress, Traitor), Verböten is inspired by the true story of Chicago's own young punks.

Henry V
O For a Muse of Fire
By William Shakespeare
Directed by Artistic Director Nathan Allen

Featuring Company Member Brenda Barrie as Henry, with Company Members Desmond Gray, Michael E. Smith, Kevin Stangler, Kara Davidson, Ben Hertel, Derek Matson, Christine Mayland Perkins, Joseph Steakley, and, as the Chorus, Nathan Allen

March 19 – May 10, 2020
PRESS OPENING: Sunday, March 29, 2020 at 7 p.m.
Chopin Upstairs Theatre, 1543 W. Division Street

As Henry attempts to accomplish the impossible, so does Shakespeare in one of his most demanding works of stagecraft. The House adventures back and forth across oceans for justice, intrigue, romance, and the “alarms and excursions” of the battlefield. Featuring Brenda Barrie as Henry and Nathan Allen as the Chorus, The House entreats you to “let us on your imaginary forces work,” and witness one of Shakespeare’s most compelling examinations of our capacity for leadership.

Artistic Director, Nathan Allen, reflects, “A few of us started dreaming about starting a theatre company while studying classical theatre in London. Like Shakespeare’s theatre, the company we imagined would be founded to engage the audience’s imagination in ‘amazing feats of storytelling.’ Nowhere are those founding ideas better described than by Shakespeare himself. And for many in The House’s ensemble, returning to this text feels like returning to the root ideas of our work together.”

The Magic Parlour

An intimate evening of classic magic starring Dennis Watkins
OPEN RUN

Fridays at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 4:30, 7:30 and 9:30 p.m.
Tickets: $79 – $89 (and includes wine, beer or soft drink selections)
Now on sale through October 2019!
The Palmer House Hotel, 17 E. Monroe St.
Tickets are available at www.themagicparlourchicago.com

Award-winning, third-generation magician Dennis Watkins invites you to his evening of sophisticated tomfoolery in one of the Windy City's most exclusive and long-running entertainment experiences. The Magic Parlour is replete with mind-blowing magic and mind reading to ignite your imagination in an intimate suite at the historic Palmer House Hilton Hotel in downtown Chicago. Guests convene at Potter's Lounge and will be escorted to the private performance venue. The performance lasts approximately 80 minutes.

Following select performances of The Magic Parlour, experience Dennis Watkins’ world-class sleight of hand in an even more intimate and exclusive setting with The Encore Room. Limited to 10 guests at a time, The Encore Room also offers guests a unique opportunity to participate in a Q&A with Watkins where they can learn more about his family legacy, his remarkable life in magic, and his work as one of this country’s premier magical entertainers.

ABOUT THE HOUSE THEATRE OF CHICAGO 
The House is Chicago's premier home for intimate, original works of epic story and stagecraft. Founded and led by Artistic Director Nathan Allen and driven by an interdisciplinary ensemble of Chicago’s next generation of great storytellers, The House aims to become a laboratory and platform for the evolution of the American theatre as an inclusive and popular artform.

The House was founded in 2001 by a group of friends to explore connections between Community and Storytelling through a unique theatrical experience. Since becoming eligible in 2004, The House has won 24 Joseph Jefferson Awards, became the first recipient of Broadway in Chicago’s Emerging Theater Award in 2007, and was awarded a 2014 National Theatre Company Grant by the American Theatre Wing, founder of the Tony Awards. The 18th season of original work begins this November and The House will continue its mission to unite Chicago in the spirit of community through amazing feats of Storytelling.   

REVIEW: The House Theatre’s Nutcracker playing through December 30th, 2018

ChiIL Mama's ChiIL Picks List: Top Family Friendly Holiday Theatre Productions

The House Theatre's "Ballet Free" Nutcracker 

Photo Credit: Kimberly Robb Baker

Guest Review:
by Kimberly Robb Baker

The House Theatre’s Nutcracker is a loving, poignant and joyful experience for family members of all ages.  

I attended with my 10-year-old son, 8-year-old daughter and ageless mother. The production was a hit with all three generations and one we’re sure to return to in coming years. Though we love Tchaikovsky, it didn’t bother us a bit that this was a ballet-free version. In fact, the absence of toe shoes—along with an innovative book/adaptation by Jake Minton, Phillip Klapperich, Kevin O’Donnell, and Tommy Rapley—made the story accessible for audiences looking for less formal entertainment.


All production photos by Michael Brosilow

There was dancing and singing of a musical theatre variety, including an opening number which made the small cast seem like one several times its size. There were cookies and laughter and gasps—also moments so still I could hear many others quietly weeping and know I wasn’t the only one who was touched by the performance.

Hailey Bolithon as Clara and Desmond Gray as her brother (and nutcracker) Fritz were the emotional anchors of the story. Clara’s love for Fritz and desire to rescue Christmas from the ratty little teeth of grief are compelling, as are Clara and Fritz’s connected sibling relationship and powerful singing voices.

Ben Hertel (Hugo, the Robot), Johnny Arena (Sock Monkey) and Rachel Shapiro (Phoebe, the doll--the favorite of both the kids) round out Clara’s posse with humor and warmth that balance the sadness, anger, and tension of her parents, deftly played by Nicholas Bailey and Amanda de la Guardia. Rom Barkhordar was enchanting as Clara’s eccentric uncle, and all “adult” actors played double-duty as convincing rats that were scary enough to startle, but portrayed within a cartoonish reality in which death is but a temporary inconvenience.

The snow play at intermission was tremendous fun and gave the kids a chance to get their wiggles out before the second half.

Photo Credit: Kimberly Robb Baker

This was our first time seeing the show, but I’m told there are new musical pieces added this year that further enhance the production many have come to love.

The House Theatre is appropriately named. A homey hospitality defined our time there from the self-accompanied singer on the lower level to the warm welcome from the ushers and even a parting gift of stationary kids could use to write to the characters with a guarantee of hearing back from them.

The sense of intimacy and family was cemented in its theatre-in-the-round setup as well as actors and ushers who interacted with the audience before and during the show.

Nutcracker will be playing through December 30th.

Kimberly Robb Baker is a Chicago based writer, blogger, consultant, story teller, and mother. 
You can find her worky stuff here: ThisLittleBrand.com and her artsy fartsy stuff here:  DisruptiveMama.com.

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar: 

The House Theatre's Nutcracker 

The House Theatre of Chicago's all-original, ballet-free and family-friendly production of The Nutcracker has been a family favorite of ours for years. The kids love to play in the fake snow at intermission, making snow angels on stage, and having snow fights. Toys come to life to sing and dance, and even the scary parts are fun, with a giant, multi headed rat puppet to be battled inside of cracking walls. We love that the nutcracker is a hero Marine in real life, who makes the ultimate sacrifice and returns to come to life each night and battle beside his sister. We also love that the main character is a brave girl and a rockin' role model who fights not only giant rats, but grief and loss as well. You may think you've seen The Nutcracker story many times before, but you've never seen it like THIS. Highly recommended. 

THE HOUSE THEATRE OF CHICAGO 

CONTINUES ITS HOLIDAY TRADITION AND ANNOUNCES CASTING FOR THE ANNUAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY, BALLET-FREE ADAPTATION OF THE HOLIDAY CLASSIC 

THE NUTCRACKER, 

NOVEMBER 8 – DECEMBER 30, 

AT THE CHOPIN THEATRE

*NOTE: special family events on Nov. 25th and Dec. 2nd!

FAMILY DAY

Sunday, Nov 25, 1pm - 4:30pm 

Family Day offers "extras" for our younger guests ages 5+. Come early for kids' crafts including cookie decorating from our partners at Whole Foods Lakeview. Watch the 2pm matinee, and then join in a talkback for kids after the show lead by teen reviewer Ada Grey!

RELAXED/SENSORY-FRIENDLY PERFORMANCE

Sunday, Dec 2, 2pm - 5pm 

Relaxed/Sensory-Friendly performances welcome everyone to attend the production in a safe, non-judgmental space. Stage lights and sounds are dimmed, and house lights are dimmed but remain on. Guests can come and go from the audience as needed - we’ll provide quiet spaces in the lobby. We aim to ease the experience for those with sensory sensitivities, very young children, and anyone who would benefit from more leeway as an audience member. Before the show, the stage, lobby, puppets, and actors will be available to help everyone get acclimated.

Use code ACCESS for $20 tickets for this show.

Tommy Rapley Returns to Direct The House Theatre of Chicago’s 

Annual Performance of The Nutcracker

The House Theatre of Chicago brings back the hit holiday production with its annual engagement of The Nutcracker, an all-original, ballet-free and family-friendly production playing at The Chopin Theatre upstairs theatre, 1543 W. Division, November 8 – December 30. Company Members Jake Minton, Phillip Klapperich, Kevin O’Donnell and Tommy Rapley created the adaptation based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s story with original direction and choreography by Tommy Rapley. 




The regular performance schedule is Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. with an added Sunday 6 p.m. performance on December 9, 16 and 23. Note: There are no performances on Nov. 9 or 17 and there are additional added performances on Friday, Nov. 23 at 3 p.m., and Wednesday, Dec. 19.

Regular run tickets $30 – $50. Student and industry same-day discounted tickets are available for $20 for all dates, based on availability. Tickets may be purchased by calling 773.769.3832 or by visiting www.thehousetheatre.com.







The House’s unique take on this classic story has become an annual tradition for many offering something for everyone during the holiday season. The show is fast-paced, beautifully choreographed, family-friendly and moving for even those who might be on the Grinch’s side from time to time.

This fantastical expansion of the holiday classic centers on Clara’s journey to save Christmas in the face of grief. With the help of a magical nutcracker, the brave girl risks the darkness, fights the Rat King and saves her family. A modern holiday tradition weaving together riveting dialogue, astonishing puppetry, original songs and spellbinding spectacle to tell a heartwarming, darkly moving story of magic and hope — a meaningful outing fit for the whole family.



The House’s production of The Nutcracker is adapted from “The Nutcracker and the Mouse,” a story by E.T.A. Hoffmann by Jake Minton, Phillip Klapperich, Kevin O’Donnell, and Tommy Rapley. The production premiered at the Steppenwolf Theatre in 2007 under the Visiting Company Initiative and has enjoyed highly acclaimed runs with The House since 2010, as well as productions in Miami. In 2016, The House revamped the show during a workshop at the Chicago Performance Lab. Repeat fans will notice the addition of new musical pieces and new audience members continued to delight in the production’s creativity and heart 

The 2018 ensemble features many returning faces including Company Members Ben Hertel as Hugo, the Robot, and Johnny Arena as Monkey. Also returning are Desmond Gray as Fritz, the Nutcracker, Rachel Shapiro as Phoebe, the doll, Nicholas Bailey as David and Quite Scary Rat, and Amanda de la Guardia as Martha and Really Scary Rat. New to the cast are Rom Barkhordar as Uncle Drosslemeyer and Really Quite Scary Rat, and in the leading role, actress Hailey Bolithon (recently starring in Hatfield & McCoy) plays Clara. 


All production photos by Michael Brosilow

ABOUT THE HOUSE THEATRE OF CHICAGO 

The House is Chicago's premier home for intimate, original works of epic story and stagecraft. Founded and led by Artistic Director Nathan Allen and driven by an interdisciplinary ensemble of Chicago’s next generation of great storytellers, The House aims to become a laboratory and platform for the evolution of the American theatre as an inclusive and popular artform.

The House was founded in 2001 by a group of friends to explore connections between Community and Storytelling through a unique theatrical experience. Since becoming eligible in 2004, The House has won 22 Joseph Jefferson Awards, became the first recipient of Broadway in Chicago’s Emerging Theater Award in 2007, and was awarded a 2014 National Theatre Company Grant by the American Theatre Wing, founder of the Tony Awards. The 17th season of original work is underway and The House will continue its mission to unite Chicago in the spirit of Community through amazing feats of Storytelling.  

GIVEAWAY: WIN 4 tickets to The House Theatre's "Ballet Free" Nutcracker (Up to $200 Value)

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar: 

WIN 4 tickets to The House Theatre's "Ballet Free" Nutcracker (Up to $200 Value)

The House Theatre of Chicago's all-original, ballet-free and family-friendly production of The Nutcracker has been a family favorite of ours for years. The kids love to play in the fake snow at intermission, making snow angels on stage, and having snow fights. Toys come to life to sing and dance, and even the scary parts are fun, with a giant, multi headed rat puppet to be battled inside of cracking walls. We love that the nutcracker is a hero Marine in real life, who makes the ultimate sacrifice and returns to come to life each night and battle beside his sister. We also love that the main character is a brave girl and a rockin' role model who fights not only giant rats, but grief and loss as well. You may think you've seen The Nutcracker story many times before, but you've never seen it like THIS. Highly recommended. 

THE HOUSE THEATRE OF CHICAGO 

CONTINUES ITS HOLIDAY TRADITION AND ANNOUNCES CASTING FOR THE ANNUAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY, BALLET-FREE ADAPTATION OF THE HOLIDAY CLASSIC 

THE NUTCRACKER, 

NOVEMBER 8 – DECEMBER 30, 

AT THE CHOPIN THEATRE

Giveaway Details: Winner's choice of any show date/time **through December 9th. Enter through midnight 11/26/18.

*NOTE: special family events on Nov. 25th and Dec. 2nd!

FAMILY DAY

Sunday, Nov 25, 1pm - 4:30pm 

Family Day offers "extras" for our younger guests ages 5+. Come early for kids' crafts including cookie decorating from our partners at Whole Foods Lakeview. Watch the 2pm matinee, and then join in a talkback for kids after the show lead by teen reviewer Ada Grey!

RELAXED/SENSORY-FRIENDLY PERFORMANCE

Sunday, Dec 2, 2pm - 5pm 

Relaxed/Sensory-Friendly performances welcome everyone to attend the production in a safe, non-judgmental space. Stage lights and sounds are dimmed, and house lights are dimmed but remain on. Guests can come and go from the audience as needed - we’ll provide quiet spaces in the lobby. We aim to ease the experience for those with sensory sensitivities, very young children, and anyone who would benefit from more leeway as an audience member. Before the show, the stage, lobby, puppets, and actors will be available to help everyone get acclimated.

Use code ACCESS for $20 tickets for this show.

Tommy Rapley Returns to Direct The House Theatre of Chicago’s 

Annual Performance of The Nutcracker

The House Theatre of Chicago brings back the hit holiday production with its annual engagement of The Nutcracker, an all-original, ballet-free and family-friendly production playing at The Chopin Theatre upstairs theatre, 1543 W. Division, November 8 – December 30. Company Members Jake Minton, Phillip Klapperich, Kevin O’Donnell and Tommy Rapley created the adaptation based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s story with original direction and choreography by Tommy Rapley. 




The regular performance schedule is Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. with an added Sunday 6 p.m. performance on December 9, 16 and 23. Note: There are no performances on Nov. 9 or 17 and there are additional added performances on Friday, Nov. 23 at 3 p.m., and Wednesday, Dec. 19.

Regular run tickets $30 – $50. Student and industry same-day discounted tickets are available for $20 for all dates, based on availability. Tickets may be purchased by calling 773.769.3832 or by visiting www.thehousetheatre.com.







The House’s unique take on this classic story has become an annual tradition for many offering something for everyone during the holiday season. The show is fast-paced, beautifully choreographed, family-friendly and moving for even those who might be on the Grinch’s side from time to time.

This fantastical expansion of the holiday classic centers on Clara’s journey to save Christmas in the face of grief. With the help of a magical nutcracker, the brave girl risks the darkness, fights the Rat King and saves her family. A modern holiday tradition weaving together riveting dialogue, astonishing puppetry, original songs and spellbinding spectacle to tell a heartwarming, darkly moving story of magic and hope — a meaningful outing fit for the whole family.



The House’s production of The Nutcracker is adapted from “The Nutcracker and the Mouse,” a story by E.T.A. Hoffmann by Jake Minton, Phillip Klapperich, Kevin O’Donnell, and Tommy Rapley. The production premiered at the Steppenwolf Theatre in 2007 under the Visiting Company Initiative and has enjoyed highly acclaimed runs with The House since 2010, as well as productions in Miami. In 2016, The House revamped the show during a workshop at the Chicago Performance Lab. Repeat fans will notice the addition of new musical pieces and new audience members continued to delight in the production’s creativity and heart 

The 2018 ensemble features many returning faces including Company Members Ben Hertel as Hugo, the Robot, and Johnny Arena as Monkey. Also returning are Desmond Gray as Fritz, the Nutcracker, Rachel Shapiro as Phoebe, the doll, Nicholas Bailey as David and Quite Scary Rat, and Amanda de la Guardia as Martha and Really Scary Rat. New to the cast are Rom Barkhordar as Uncle Drosslemeyer and Really Quite Scary Rat, and in the leading role, actress Hailey Bolithon (recently starring in Hatfield & McCoy) plays Clara. 



ABOUT THE HOUSE THEATRE OF CHICAGO 

The House is Chicago's premier home for intimate, original works of epic story and stagecraft. Founded and led by Artistic Director Nathan Allen and driven by an interdisciplinary ensemble of Chicago’s next generation of great storytellers, The House aims to become a laboratory and platform for the evolution of the American theatre as an inclusive and popular artform.

The House was founded in 2001 by a group of friends to explore connections between Community and Storytelling through a unique theatrical experience. Since becoming eligible in 2004, The House has won 22 Joseph Jefferson Awards, became the first recipient of Broadway in Chicago’s Emerging Theater Award in 2007, and was awarded a 2014 National Theatre Company Grant by the American Theatre Wing, founder of the Tony Awards. The 17th season of original work is underway and The House will continue its mission to unite Chicago in the spirit of Community through amazing feats of Storytelling.  

WIN 4 tickets to The House Theatre's "Ballet Free" Nutcracker (Up to $200 Value)!

Giveaway Details: Winner's choice of any show date/time **through December 9th. Enter through midnight 11/26/18. 

Age range: All (scary giant rat puppet and themes of death and loss may be tough for very young or sensitive children, but my kids have loved it from their preschool through teen days) 

ENTER HERE for your chance to WIN 4 Tickets to The House Theatre's Nutcracker

Holiday Favorite THE HOUSE THEATRE BALLET-FREE ADAPTATION OF THE HOLIDAY CLASSIC THE NUTCRACKER Returns NOVEMBER 8 – DECEMBER 30, 2018

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar: 

THE HOUSE THEATRE OF CHICAGO 

CONTINUES ITS HOLIDAY TRADITION AND ANNOUNCES CASTING FOR THE ANNUAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY, BALLET-FREE ADAPTATION OF THE HOLIDAY CLASSIC 

THE NUTCRACKER, 

NOVEMBER 8 – DECEMBER 30, 

AT THE CHOPIN THEATRE

Tommy Rapley Returns to Direct The House Theatre of Chicago’s 

Annual Performance of The Nutcracker

The House Theatre of Chicago brings back the hit holiday production with its annual engagement of The Nutcracker, an all-original, ballet-free and family-friendly production playing at The Chopin Theatre upstairs theatre, 1543 W. Division, November 8 – December 30. Company Members Jake Minton, Phillip Klapperich, Kevin O’Donnell and Tommy Rapley created the adaptation based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s story with original direction and choreography by Tommy Rapley. Previews take place Thursdays, November 8 and 15, Friday, Nov. 10 and Saturday, Nov. 11 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 9 at 6 p.m. The press opening is Friday, Nov. 16 at 7:30 p.m. The regular performance schedule is Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. with an added Sunday 6 p.m. performance on December 9, 16 and 23. Note: There are no performances on Nov. 9 or 17 and there are additional added performances on Friday, Nov. 23 at 3 p.m., and Wednesday, Dec. 19.

Preview tickets are $20 with regular run tickets $30 – $50. Student and industry same-day discounted tickets are available for $20 for all dates, based on availability. Tickets may be purchased by calling 773.769.3832 or by visiting www.thehousetheatre.com.

The House’s unique take on this classic story has become an annual tradition for many offering something for everyone during the holiday season. The show is fast-paced, beautifully choreographed, family-friendly and moving for even those who might be on the Grinch’s side from time to time.

This fantastical expansion of the holiday classic centers on Clara’s journey to save Christmas in the face of grief. With the help of a magical nutcracker, the brave girl risks the darkness, fights the Rat King and saves her family. A modern holiday tradition weaving together riveting dialogue, astonishing puppetry, original songs and spellbinding spectacle to tell a heartwarming, darkly moving story of magic and hope — a meaningful outing fit for the whole family.

The House’s production of The Nutcracker is adapted from “The Nutcracker and the Mouse,” a story by E.T.A. Hoffmann by Jake Minton, Phillip Klapperich, Kevin O’Donnell, and Tommy Rapley. The production premiered at the Steppenwolf Theatre in 2007 under the Visiting Company Initiative and has enjoyed highly acclaimed runs with The House since 2010, as well as productions in Miami. In 2016, The House revamped the show during a workshop at the Chicago Performance Lab. Repeat fans will notice the addition of new musical pieces and new audience members continued to delight in the production’s creativity and heart 

The 2018 ensemble features many returning faces including Company Members Ben Hertel as Hugo, the Robot, and Johnny Arena as Monkey. Also returning are Desmond Gray as Fritz, the Nutcracker, Rachel Shapiro as Phoebe, the doll, Nicholas Bailey as David and Quite Scary Rat, and Amanda de la Guardia as Martha and Really Scary Rat. New to the cast are Rom Barkhordar as Uncle Drosslemeyer and Really Quite Scary Rat, and in the leading role, actress Hailey Bolithon (recently starring in Hatfield & McCoy) plays Clara. 

ABOUT THE HOUSE THEATRE OF CHICAGO 

The House is Chicago's premier home for intimate, original works of epic story and stagecraft. Founded and led by Artistic Director Nathan Allen and driven by an interdisciplinary ensemble of Chicago’s next generation of great storytellers, The House aims to become a laboratory and platform for the evolution of the American theatre as an inclusive and popular artform.

The House was founded in 2001 by a group of friends to explore connections between Community and Storytelling through a unique theatrical experience. Since becoming eligible in 2004, The House has won 22 Joseph Jefferson Awards, became the first recipient of Broadway in Chicago’s Emerging Theater Award in 2007, and was awarded a 2014 National Theatre Company Grant by the American Theatre Wing, founder of the Tony Awards. The 17th season of original work is underway and The House will continue its mission to unite Chicago in the spirit of Community through amazing feats of Storytelling.  

REVIEW: “Magic is Real” at The House Nutcracker!

Review by Catherine Hellmann, guest contributor 

The House Theatre of Chicago indeed produces magic. It is tough to be a Scrooge, even this early in the season on the night of our first snowfall, and resist the Christmas spirit with this delightful production of The Nutcracker. Everything feels merry and bright in the theater, from the lovely set with its numerous tall, elegant doors, the decorated Christmas tree, to the cast mingling with the crowd before the performance. There is such a big party atmosphere that gets everyone in the audience involved in the energy and enthusiasm. 

It’s hard to believe that this is the same space where I saw United Flight 232 just two months ago with its tunnel leading to the interior of the airplane. Or flying monkeys in Oz last March. Now the Chopin Theater is transformed with holiday cheer. The creativity and surprises that persist at House Theatre always amaze me. Little touches abound, like when each actor making an entrance from outside tosses a handful of fake snow into the air upon entrance, as if just stepping in from the cold. 



The show begins with a Christmas gathering of family; spirits are high as beloved son Fritz, a soldier, is due home for the holidays. The transition from gaiety to tragedy (spoiler alert!) is shocking as a somber figure appears suddenly at the door, dashing the party, a dreadful, military-folded funeral flag in hand. The Christmas tree is carried out like a coffin with pall bearers. The contrast is astounding. As my new BFF Kait Mikitin, the Audience Services Manager, told me,” Some audience members weep at that part or even walk out.” But that would be a shame to miss Clara’s grand adventure with her animated friends. 





Just as in the familiar version of The Nutcracker, Drosselmeyer is an intense, curious figure, both loving and slightly sinister. Torrey Hanson does not disappoint as the uncle everyone wants to have around for his company and awesome presents. (Everyone should have an Uncle Drosselmeyer who adores them and spoils them.) His gift is an odd one this time, a nutcracker version of her revered brother, Fritz. 



Haley Seda as Clara poignantly sings to her toys, and uses different funny voices to have them “respond” to her.  These toys later come to life and have the voices she portrayed earlier. 



The three toys are all so enchanting and wonderful, it is hard to pick a favorite. Rachel Shapiro as Phoebe the Doll has a good voice she uses to great effect in their songs. (I loved her yarn hair!) Ian Maryfield as the French sock monkey has a hilarious French accent and a couple of the best lines in the show. He was very playful and would startle and interact with audience members which was a hoot. Ben Hartel as Hugo, with his light-up hat, is the...uh...strange clown-like creature, was adorable and had great physical presence. All of them were dancing with children in the audience at intermission which was just charming.



 
Which brings up another point: this is a family-friendly show that kids can attend, although little ones might get a bit freaked out by the rats appearing in Act II. They are a bit creepy…   During one scene, an actor asked a question in the dialogue, and a small voice in the crowd answered. It was sweet and speaks to how this show is magical in its power to draw us in. 

My teen daughter thought “the walls opening up was cool.” Again, this is a trademark of House Theatre and how clever their theatrics are. When I asked my girl what she thought of the show, she answered: “The rats wanted Clara to stay in darkness with her brother, but she chose to enter the light where he was dead. It was like a closure thing.” Sounds like someone is paying attention in English class! 



Be sure to make a point of seeing House Theatre’s The Nutcracker this holiday season.  So much is going on in this show that you can see it repeatedly to catch the magic you missed the first time around. If you have family or out-of-town guests visiting over the holidays, this would be an unusual, hip holiday show for you to share with them that isn’t the typical fare. Be sure to buy a “Magic is Real” or “Time to Make Cookies” button at the Swag counter while you are there. 

For ticket links and further show info click HERE:

The House Theatre of Chicago once again brings holiday cheer for the whole family with its eighth annual engagement of the all-original, ballet-free The Nutcracker playing at The Chopin Theatre upstairs theatre, 1543 W. Division, November 3 – December 30. Company Members Jake Minton, Phillip Klapperich, Kevin O’Donnell and Tommy Rapley created the adaptation. New to the 2017 holiday production, based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s story, is director and Company Member Chris Mathews with original direction and choreography by Tommy Rapley. 

Performances are Thursdays – Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Additional Saturday matinees at 3 p.m. begin regularly on Saturday, Nov. 25 and additional regular Sunday evening 7 p.m. performances begin on Sunday, Dec. 10. 

Preview tickets are $15 with regular run tickets $25 – $50. Student and industry same-day discounted tickets are available for $15 for all dates, based on availability. Tickets may be purchased by calling 773.769.3832 or by visiting www.thehousetheatre.com. 

The Nutcracker is adapted from “The Nutcracker and the Mouse,” a story by E.T.A.
Hoffmann by Jake Minton, Phillip Klapperich, Kevin O’Donnell, and Tommy Rapley. 

Note: There are no performances on Christmas Eve, Sunday, Dec. 24th. 

OPENING: Ballet Free Nutcracker Returns To House Theatre 11/3-12/30

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

THE HOUSE THEATRE OF CHICAGO ANNOUNCES CAST FOR ITS ANNUAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY THEATRICAL ADAPTATION OF THE HOLIDAY CLASSIC 

THE NUTCRACKER

NOVEMBER 3 – DECEMBER 30 

AT THE CHOPIN THEATRE

This Year’s Clara will be Performed by Haley Seda, Daughter of Jon Seda, Chicago Actor Currently Starring on Chicago PD

The ballet free House Nutcracker has been an annual family favorite of ours here at ChiIL Mama for years. We highly recommend this music filled, contemporary, family friendly feast of holiday theatre fun. It has a dark, edgy side, with scary, giant rat puppets, a soldier's grieving family, and a brave young girl ready to face her fears and save her family from themselves. And it has plenty of what the holidays should center on, like beloved toys, Christmas trees, fresh baked cookies, friends and family and epic adventure. Whether it's your first time to see The House Nutcracker or already a beloved holiday tradition, don't miss this! 

The House Theatre of Chicago once again brings holiday cheer for the whole family with its eighth annual engagement of the all-original, ballet-free The Nutcracker playing at The Chopin Theatre upstairs theatre, 1543 W. Division, November 3 – December 30. Company Members Jake Minton, Phillip Klapperich, Kevin O’Donnell and Tommy Rapley created the adaptation. New to the 2017 holiday production, based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s story, is director and Company Member Chris Mathews with original direction and choreography by Tommy Rapley. Previews take place November 3 – 9 following the regular schedule, excluding matinees.

Performances are Thursdays – Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. with 3 p.m. matinees Saturdays and Sundays. Preview tickets are $15 with regular run tickets $25 – $50. Student and industry same-day discounted tickets are available for $15 for all dates, based on availability. 

Tickets may be purchased by calling 773.769.3832 or by visiting www.thehousetheatre.com. 

The House Theatre of Chicago brings the wholly original, ballet-free version of The Nutcracker back because it truly has something for everyone. The show is fast-paced, beautifully choreographed, family-friendly, and moving for even those of us that might be on the Grinch’s side from time to time. This fantastical, “smart [and] layered” (Chicago Reader, 2016) expansion of the holiday classic that “simultaneously evokes smiles, tears, mirth and cringes“ (PerformInk, 2016) centers on young Clara’s journey to save Christmas in the face of grief. With the help of a magical nutcracker, the brave girl risks the darkness, fights the Rat King and saves her family. “The play’s willingness to embrace that darker side of life makes the triumph of the light side all the brighter” (NewCity, 2016).  A modern holiday tradition weaving together riveting dialogue, astonishing puppetry, original song and spellbinding spectacle to tell a heartwarming, darkly moving story of magic and hope -- a fun outing fit for the whole family. The run time for The Nutcracker is approximately 2 hours, including one 15 minute intermission.

The production premiered at the Steppenwolf Theatre in 2007 under the Visiting Company Initiative and has enjoyed highly acclaimed new productions at The House since 2010, as well as simultaneous productions in Chicago and Miami in 2012. In 2016, The House revamped the show during a workshop at the Chicago Performance Lab. Repeat fans of the show have enjoyed new musical additions and new audience members continued to delight in the production’s creativity and heart.

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

The Nutcracker is adapted from “The Nutcracker and the Mouse,” a story by E.T.A. Hoffmann by Jake Minton, Phillip Klapperich, Kevin O’Donnell, and Tommy Rapley.

The cast for The Nutcracker includes newcomers Haley Seda (Clara) and Company Member Ben Hertel (Hugo) and welcomes back 2016 cast members Rachel Shapiro (Phoebe), Desmond Gray (Fritz), Torrey Hanson (Drosselmeyer), Amanda de la Guardia (Martha), Nicholas Bailey (David) and Ian Maryfield (Monkey).

The creative and production team for The Nutcracker includes Company Members Chris Mathews (Director), Tommy Rapley (Original Director and Choreographer), Jake Minton (Writer), Phillip Klapperich (Writer), Kevin O’Donnell (Composer), Collette Pollard (Scenic Designer), Lee Keenan (Lighting Designer), Debbi Baer (Costume Designer) and Michael Griggs (Sound Designer). Guest artists include Mieka van der Ploeg (Associate Costume Designer/Costume Manager), Tracee Bear (Assistant Costume Designer), Grover Hollway (Associate Sound Designer), Matthew Muniz (Music Director/Orchestrations) and Hillary Aarons (Choreographer).

ABOUT THE HOUSE THEATRE OF CHICAGO 

The House is Chicago's premier home for intimate, original works of epic story and stagecraft. Founded and led by Artistic Director Nathan Allen and driven by an interdisciplinary ensemble of Chicago’s next generation of great storytellers, The House aims to become a laboratory and platform for the evolution of the American theatre as an inclusive and popular artform.

The House was founded in 2001 by a group of friends to explore connections between Community and Storytelling through a unique theatrical experience. Since becoming eligible in 2004, The House has been nominated for 60 Joseph Jefferson Awards (23 wins), became the first recipient of Broadway in Chicago’s Emerging Theater Award in 2007, and was awarded a 2014 National Theatre Company Grant by the American Theatre Wing, founder of the Tony Awards. The 16th season of original work will begin September 2017 and The House will continue its mission to unite Chicago in the spirit of Community through amazing feats of Storytelling.  

The House Theatre of Chicago once again brings holiday cheer for the whole family with its eighth annual engagement of the all-original, ballet-free The Nutcracker playing at The Chopin Theatre upstairs theatre, 1543 W. Division, November 3 – December 30. Company Members Jake Minton, Phillip Klapperich, Kevin O’Donnell and Tommy Rapley created the adaptation. New to the 2017 holiday production, based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s story, is director and Company Member Chris Mathews with original direction and choreography by Tommy Rapley. Previews take place November 3 – 9 following the regular schedule, excluding matinees. The press opening is Friday, Nov. 10 at 7 p.m. Performances are Thursdays – Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. with 3 p.m. matinees Saturdays and Sundays. Preview tickets are $15 with regular run tickets $25 – $50. Student and industry same-day discounted tickets are available for $15 for all dates, based on availability. Tickets may be purchased by calling 773.769.3832 or by visiting www.thehousetheatre.com. 

GIVEAWAY: WIN A Family 4 Pack (up to $180 value--2 available) To The House Theatre Nutcracker!

ChiIL Mama & The House Theatre want to take YOU to 
CHICAGO'S MACABRE, BALLET FREE, FAMILY-FRIENDLY, THEATRICAL ADAPTATION OF THE NUTCRACKER, THROUGH DECEMBER 31,

AT THE CHOPIN THEATRE

ChiIL Mama's ChiIL Picks List: 

Best Chicago Family Holiday Shows

ChiIL Live Shows on Our Radar

The House Nutcracker is a hotly anticipated annual family tradition for us here at ChiIL Mama. Where else is your ticket a take home ornament (rats if you're lucky) and your program contains a recipe for Martha's Famous Sugar Plum Cookies?! We dig the singing toys, creepy giant, multi headed rat puppets, mourned Marine, and NO BALLET whatsoever. We adore this utterly unique holiday take on The Nutcracker, overcoming grief, and conquering fears. It's even a huge hit with the tweens and teens, a notoriously hard to please demographic between children's theatre and full on adult productions. Highly recommended. We're thrilled to partner up with The House on a fabulous ticket giveaway!

Disclosure: Thanks to The House Theatre for providing tickets for our giveaway and review comps for our family. We have not been compensated in any other way for our coverage. As always, all opinions are our own.

We're giving away TWO Family Four Packs of Tickets to the House Nutcracker (up to $180 value each--2 available). ENTER HERE. Winners' choice of dates pending availability. Enter often through midnight Monday 12/14.

An exciting part of 

Now through December 18th

The House’s modern holiday theatrical production weaves together riveting dialogue, astonishing puppetry, original song and spellbinding spectacle to tell a heartwarming, darkly moving story of magic and hope -- a fun outing fit for the whole family.

Check out our family's adventures at the press opening in the full slide show right here:

Live music is a boon to this excellent production.



And you can bring beer into the snow... erm, I mean SHOW.

We love that the audience can get hands on with the show snow over intermission & meet some of the characters! 

The House Theatre of Chicago once again brings holiday cheer with its sixth annual return of the all-original, family-friendly version of The Nutcracker playing at the The Chopin Theatre Upstairs Theatre, 1543 W. Division, through December 31. The show was created by Company Members Jake Minton, Phillip Klapperich, Kevin O’Donnell and Tommy Rapley. Company Member Rapley reprises his role as director and choreographer of the holiday production based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s story. 

Snow fun being a tween at The House Nutcracker!

The House’s fantastical expansion of this holiday classic centers on young Clara’s journey to celebrate Christmas in the face of grief after the death of her brother. With the help of a magical nutcracker, this brave little girl will fight the Rat King and save her family. 

The House’s original play version of The Nutcracker has become a Chicago Holiday tradition for many families. It premiered at the Steppenwolf Theatre in 2007 under the Visiting Company Initiative and enjoyed highly acclaimed new productions at The House from 2010 through 2014, as well as simultaneous 2012 productions in both Chicago and Miami.

The Magic IS Real! Who knew I married a NUTCRACKER?! 

Performances are Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m. with 3 p.m. matinees Saturdays and Sundays. Additional remaining holiday weekend performances are Tuesday, Dec. 22 at 7 p.m.; Wednesday, Dec. 23 at 7 p.m.; Monday, Dec. 28 at 7 p.m.; Tuesday, Dec. 29 at 7 p.m., and 
Wednesday, Dec. 30 at 7 p.m.

PRICES: $15 - $45

TIMES: Thursdays & Fridays 7:30, Saturdays 3:00 & 7:30, Sundays 3:00 & 7:00

SEATS: Performed in the round, with seats on all sides, and always general admission

RUN TIME: 2 hours, including one 15 minute intermission

AGES: 5 to 105! Read more in the Parent's Guide from co-writer Jake Minton.

HEP RATS: We got a huge kick out of this T.U.K. shoes wearin', British accented rat pack!

NOTE:  The House hosts a family-friendly New Year’s Eve extravaganza following the closing performance December 31 and will last until 1:00am. Tickets to the New Year’s Eve Extravaganza are on sale NOW. Regular run tickets are $25 - $45. Student and industry same-day discounted tickets are available for $10 for all dates, based on availability. Tickets may be purchased by calling 773.769.3832 or by visiting www.thehousetheatre.com.

About the New Year’s Eve Extravaganza:

Following the closing performance Thursday, Dec. 31, The House  hosts a family-friendly New Year’s Eve Extravaganza. The party features music from House Company members, led by Kevin O’Donnell, a dance floor, full table-top and party game room, photo booth and savory and sweet eats and drinks. Tickets will go on sale Thursday, Nov. 5.

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

The Nutcracker is adapted by Jake Minton and Phillip Klapperich from “The Nutcracker and the Mouse,” a story by E.T.A. Hoffmann with original music by Kevin O’Donnell. 

The cast for The Nutcracker features the return of House Company Members Chris Matthews in the role of “Monkey” and Marika Mashburn as “Martha/Really Scary Rat” and welcomes Company Member Abu Ansari as “David/Quite Scary Rat.” Returning to the cast are guest artists Jaclyn Hennell as “Clara” and Andrew Lund as “Hugo the Robot.” Rounding out the cast and new to The Nutcracker this year are guest artists James Houton as “Drosselmeyer/Really Quite Scary Rat,” Rachel Shapiro as “Phoebe the Babydoll” and Desmond Gray as “Fritz the Nutcracker.” 

ABOUT THE HOUSE THEATRE OF CHICAGO
The House is Chicago's premier home for intimate, original works of epic story and stagecraft. Founded and led by Artistic Director Nathan Allen and driven by an interdisciplinary ensemble of Chicago’s next generation of great storytellers, The House aims to become a laboratory and platform for the evolution of the American theatre as an inclusive and popular artform.

The House was founded in 2001 by a group of friends to explore connections between Community and Storytelling through a unique theatrical experience. Since becoming eligible in 2004, The House has been nominated for 60 Joseph Jefferson Awards (19 wins) and became the first recipient of Broadway in Chicago’s Emerging Theater Award in 2007, and was awarded a 2013 National Theatre Company Grant by the American Theatre Wing, founder of the Tony Awards. Now in its 14th year of original work, The House continues its mission to unite Chicago in the spirit of Community through amazing feats of Storytelling.

Check back with ChiIL Mama like we vote in Chi, IL... early and often. It's rewarding! 

Now through December 18th

Here are more of our favorite family shots from the press opening. 

Great gift ideas abound here, at House Theatre. Their t-shirts are some of the coolest in the Chicago theatre scene and their posters are ahhhhmazing! Then there's always season subscriptions or tickets to an upcoming show. Experience based gifts are great clutter busters and make lifelong cool memories.

Blizzard in a box! Hooray for the awesome clean up crew and for letting us play first. You rock!!

Whatever you do this holiday season, don't miss THIS!

Disclosure: Thanks to The House Theatre for providing tickets for our giveaway and review comps for our family. We have not been compensated in any other way for our coverage. As always, all opinions are our own.