Everyone who thinks of NYC as the place to go see Broadway shows should think again. Chicago is home to magnificent theaters and acclaimed Broadway shows that are constantly rotating. With some of the best productions, musicals, and comedy shows, there is something for everyone here.
With all the things to do in Chicago at least once, seeing one of the Broadway shows in Chicago should be at the top of your list. To make it a little easier, we’ve compiled a list of productions happening right now!
Experience the Magic of Harry Potter on Broadway
Potterheads rejoice! The Tony Award-winning play, “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child”, has embarked on its first-ever North American tour, debuting in Chicago. The production brings to life the magical story of Harry Potter’s son, Albus, as he embarks on an unforgettable journey at Hogwarts. This captivating play combines breathtaking performances with a heartfelt narrative, making it a must-see for fans of the Wizarding World.
📍 Location: James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601
🗓️ Dates: September 10th, 2024 – February 1st, 2025
& Juliet
While there are a ton of Broadway shows in Chicago, this one is a fresh take on a Shakespeare classic. & Juliet flips the script on the greatest love story ever told, offering a hilarious and innovative take on Shakespeare’s classic. This captivating musical imagines Juliet’s journey beyond her famous ending, giving her a second chance at life and love on her own terms. Created by the Emmy®-winning writer from “Schitt’s Creek,” the show combines witty storytelling with a playlist of contemporary pop anthems, promising an unforgettable theatrical experience that breathes new life into a timeless tale.
📍 Location: Cadillac Palace Theatre
🗓️ Dates: December 4th, 2024 – December 15th, 2024
Yippee Ki Yay
Yippee Ki Yay is a lively parody of Die Hard for fans and newcomers. This comic show celebrates the iconic 80s festive favorite, Die Hard, through an unauthorized parody by Richard Marsh, a Fringe First-winner and acclaimed storyteller. This unique retelling of the classic film combines action-packed humor with the heartfelt personal story of a lifelong Die Hard fan. It’s an essential viewing for both Hans Gruber connoisseurs and those new to the franchise.
📍 Location: Broadway Playhouse At Water Tower Place
🗓️ Dates: November 19—December 15, 2024
The Hip Hop Nutcracker
The Hip Hop Nutcracker reimagines Tchaikovsky’s timeless music with a dynamic hip-hop twist, creating one of the dazzling Broadway shows in Chicago. Directed and choreographed by Jennifer Weber, this modern retelling brings Maria-Clara and the Nutcracker Prince’s adventure to life with a powerhouse cast of dancers, a DJ, a violinist, and hip-hop legend Kurtis Blow. This vibrant production transforms the 19th-century classic into a celebration of love, community, and the magic of the holiday season set against the backdrop of contemporary New York City.
📍 Location: CIBC Theatre
🗓️ Dates: December 10th—December 15th, 2024
Les Misérables
This is one of the Broadway shows in Chicago that’s a beloved classic. Cameron Mackintosh’s acclaimed production of Boublil and Schönberg’s Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon, LES MISÉRABLES, makes a triumphant return to Chicago. This captivating staging brings to life the story of broken dreams, unrequited love, and redemption set against the backdrop of 19th-century France. With its magnificent score featuring beloved songs like “I Dreamed a Dream” and “One Day More.”
📍 Location: Cadillac Palace Theatre
🗓️ Dates:December 17th—January 5th, 2025