Several veteran Chicago theater artists, including producer Joshua Altman, are central to “To Have and To Hold.” This new off-Broadway production, written by and starring Laura Lapidus, offers a modern take on “The Taming of the Shrew,” focusing on the dynamic between sisters Kate and Bianca. Yuriy Sardarov, known for “Chicago Fire,” joins Tedra Millan in the cast. Joshua Altman, founder of Lily Jack Productions, will see the play open on August 23 at Chashama’s 154 Theater, located at 154 Christopher Street, New York.
Chicago Shakespeare Theater marks its 40th anniversary with a grand celebration. Barbara Gaines, founder of Shakespeare Repertory of Chicago, first staged “Henry V” 40 years ago on a Lincoln Park rooftop. To honor this milestone, the company offers a free, family-friendly open house on Navy Pier. Attendees can enjoy activities in all three performance spaces, including backstage tours, theatrical design displays, verse readings with Artistic Director Edward Hall, and a silent auction. Ian McKellen, a recent visitor, has signed books for the event. Photo opportunities and birthday cake are also available. Tours start at 5 p.m., with the season preview at 7 p.m. on August 3. Reservations can be made at www.chicagoshakes.com.
The Umbilical Brothers, known from the Nickelodeon series “The Upside Down Show,” bring their show “The Distraction” to the Studebaker Theater this fall. This physical comedy duo, Shane Dundas and David Collins, begins their U.S. tour in Chicago on September 19. For more details, visit www.fineartsbuilding.com.
The Umbilical Brothers, seen here at the 2008 Movie Extra FilmInk Awards in Sydney, Australia, are set to entertain audiences in Chicago.
A Red Orchid Theater’s 2026-27 season focuses on the theme of a “world on fire.” The 34th season begins with Will Arbery’s “Heroes of the Fourth Turning,” directed by ensemble member dado. This will be the Chicago premiere this fall. In 2027, Keiko Green’s dark comedy “You Are Cordially Invited to the End of the World!” will premiere. Directed by Terry Guest, it features ensemble members dado and Sadieh Rifai. The season concludes with a world premiere adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s “Rosmersholm,” adapted by Steve Haggard and Shade Murray. Murray also directs, with performances by Sherman Edwards, Haggard, Travis A. Knight, and Natalie West.
Rivendell Theatre showcases the cast for the fall world premiere of Eliza Bent’s “Bonnie’s Last Flight.” Performers include Rebecca Spence, Eric Slater, Jessica Ervin, Glenn Obrero, and Paul Oakley Stovall.
Goodman Theatre’s hit show “Octet” closes on Sunday. This is the last chance to witness this distinguished piece of Chicago theater.
Chris Jones recommends various highlights, including “Theater of the Mind” by Goodman Theatre, “Octet” by Raven Theatre, and “Champions of Magic” at the Studebaker Theater, among others.