Love, loss, and creation merge in unexpected ways as the Studebaker Theater and Fine Arts Building co-present Manual Cinema’s thrilling version of the classic Gothic tale Frankenstein. The Chicago-based performance collective imaginatively combines shadow puppetry, cinematic techniques, sound effects, and live music in haunting shows like nothing else you’ve ever seen.
Set in the underground clubs, radio stations, and recording studios of 1950s Memphis, the Tony Award®-winning Broadway musical Memphis tells an inspiring story of music, passion, and breaking barriers.
Experience the foundational masterpiece of horror cinema like never before. WBEZ presents a special screening of F.W. Murnau’s iconic 1922 silent film Nosferatu, brought to life with a live, original score composed and performed by Chicago’s own Circuit Des Yeux (Haley Fohr) and accompanied by special guest Alan Sparhawk.
Yang Meng’en (Youngmoon) brings his sharp, fearless stand-up special, Renegade, to the Studebaker Theater for one night of bold comedy and unexpected laughs.
Pulitzer-Prize winning author Hernan Diaz will take the Studebaker Theater stage to discuss his new novel, Ply, in conversation with Greta Johnsen.
Join the Chicago Jazz Orchestra and renowned vibraphonist Thaddeus Tukes as we celebrate the music of the jazz vibraphone from its origins in Chicago to its established place in the current jazz scene.
Award-winning performer Carisa Hendrix stars as charming socialite and cocktail enthusiast Lucy Darling as she continues her vivacious vagabond voyages live at The Studebaker Theater. This ever-charming variety show features her razor-sharp wit, unquestionable advice, and skillful magic.
The Umbilical Brothers are an international comedy phenomenon, whose performances use a fast-paced mix of movement, vocal sound effects and verbal interplay to cleverly twist theatrical rules and everyday situations into comedy triumph.
The phenomenal Champions Of Magic bring their acclaimed illusion spectacular to Chicago for a limited engagement this summer. See the production that critics have described as ‘the most spectacular show’, ‘two hours of mind-twisting, logic-defying entertainment’ and ‘the summer blockbuster of magic shows."
Through a dynamic score by COT’s Vanguard Composer in Residence, Aaron Israel Levin, and a taut, contemporary libretto by Marella Martin Koch, the opera delves into the complexities of family bonds, the weight of inherited legacies, and the search for redemption in a world where trust—once lost—may never be regained.
Join WBEZ for a special event with Senator Chris Murphy as he unpacks his new book, Crisis of the Common Good: The Fight for Meaning and Connection in a Broken America.
With lyrical beauty and emotional honesty, this pathbreaking new opera illuminates how we can reach understanding across generations and open doors of memory, hope and compassion.
Bluebird is a collective of some of the best improvisers on the planet. The show is inspired by a short conversation with audience members and what follows is an evening of never before (and never again) scenes and characters that cascade into a hilarious and original freewheeling show.
Chicago! K-pop boy group AMPERS&ONE are returning to the United States on their 2026 live tour 'Born To Define'. Known for their exciting performances and energetic music, the group is ready to meet fans and create an unforgettable night together.
The Chicago Academy for the Arts Dance Department presents its Spring Dance Concert on Saturday, May 9 with two shows beginning at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Join the Chicago Jazz Orchestra as we celebrate the legacy of jazz icon Roy Eldridge with renowned trumpeter Jon Faddis and extraordinary vocalist Alyssa Allgood.
Enjoy a fabulous spring evening filled with Mozart! Camerata Chicago is delighted to present Evren Ozel, a winner of the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition performs Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 20 with Camerata Chicago.
The world's premier Barbra Streisand impressionist and foremost Judy Garland interpreter unite for a one-night only concert to benefit Season of Concern.
Porchlight In Concert debuted in 2024 with sold out performances of Sunday in the Park with George and this season returns to the Studebaker for a limited engagement of another Stephen Sondheim classic, Follies.
Step into a musical time capsule with the ten singers of Chicago a cappella as they revisit the Brill Building era of the 1950s and ’60s with narrator Geoffrey Baer. These irresistible pop classics evoke songwriting genius converging under one roof—and their magic still strikes a chord today.
With her unmistakable voice and deeply emotional expression, Yasmin creates an intimate musical experience where Ladino heritage meets contemporary sound.
Get ready to celebrate a spectacular evening of music, theatre, dance, visual arts, musical theatre, and media arts at The Academy’s all school showcase!
A 25th anniversary celebration of Ballet Folklorico's Mexican traditions and our commitment to passing these customs down to the younger generation through the art of dance.
Potted Potter, the spellbinding, international smash-hit parody has enchanted sold-out audiences around the globe - and now it is heading back to Chicago for a limited run!
In this fast-paced production we bring you the entire 144 episodes of the hit 90s TV show, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, as told through the eyes of the one person who knows it inside out… Spike.
A genre-defying masterpiece that blurs the boundaries between opera, operetta, and musical theater, paving the way for the future of music drama.
Enjoy a romantic evening with the wonderful violinist Yi-Jia Susanne Hou on Valentines Day Weekend serenading you with romances for violin and orchestra by Beethoven and love inspired works by Kreisler.
A wickedly funny musical adventure based on Roald Dahl's snappy book, featuring a menagerie of puppets and perfect for the whole family!
Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival presents Wakka Wakka's mesmerizing musical odyssey about survival, transformation, and the power of true friendship.
This concert is part of the America 250 artistic programming taking place nationwide in 2026 to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. COT celebrates this milestone by uplifting the profound contributions of immigrant composers and of America’s enduring role as a haven for creative freedom.
A trailblazing and electrifying new show that fuses Irish dance, music, theater and cinema to explore the ancient origins of Ireland.
The Chicago Bar Association presents “Moo Court.” In its 102nd annual year, the Chicago Bar Show continues to entertain lawyers and non-lawyers alike. We promise wackiness, fun, music, and more cowbell (less politics)!
Manual Cinema's awe-inspiring, one-of-a-kind rendition of the Dickens classic returns to the Studebaker Theater this holiday season!
COT honors the 200th Anniversary of Salieri’s death in 1825 with the Chicago premiere of his sparkling comedy, Falstaff, ossia Le tre burle (Falstaff, or The Three Tricks).
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom: The Musical bursts onto the stage in a bright, musical, and joy-filled celebration of letters, words, and imagination that will captivate kids and adults alike. With infectious rhythms, dazzling puppets, lively dancing, and playful audience interaction, this high-energy production transforms the beloved story into a whirlwind of color, creativity, and fun.
Join the original 'MISS SCARLET' - LESLEY ANN WARREN - as she hosts a screening of the cult cinema hit CLUE! Based on the popular board game, this iconic comedy is now celebrating its 40th anniversary with a national tour.
Within is a powerful Indian contemporary dance production that chronicles the emotional landscape of a family grappling with unspoken words and the eventual triumph of rediscovered connection.
Experience early FINAL FANTASY classics alongside the newest musical innovations of the series in this thrillingly personal and engaging format!
The Yordano Ida y Vuelta 2025 Tour celebrates the Venezuelan singer-songwriter’s legendary career, taking fans on a musical journey through his timeless hits.
The tension between freedom and safety sits at the heart of this live debate where we will ask: Would America be safer without the Second Amendment?
We’re excited to welcome CAM to our stage on Friday, October 24th! Tickets go on sale Friday, August 22nd at 10am. Be sure to grab your tickets and we'll see you there!
Shakespeare Sings takes audiences on an unforgettable journey through the passion, comedy, tragedy, and romance inspired by the lasting genius of Shakespeare.
Step into a vibrant celebration of sound, spirit, and light with "Bollywood & Beyond"—just in time for Diwali, the Festival of Lights.
Camerata Chicago is thrilled to present Peter and the Wolf by Prokofiev, narrated by renowned soprano Robin Wiper. Bring the entire family to this educational concert in which you will hear also Jupiter from Holst’s Planets Suite, Mozart’s Horn Concerto played by Lee Shirer and works by Handel.
The inaugural Mobilize Chicago Summit, presented with the Chicago Department of Transportation and the Chicago Architecture Biennial, is a half-day gathering that blends art, design, and civic imagination to reimagine people-first streets.
Academy Award, Golden Globe and Emmy Award-nominated actor Elizabeth McGovern stars as Hollywood's original femme fatale Ava Gardner in a critically acclaimed new play lauded by Entertainment Weekly as “mesmerizing and electric!”
Join Yulia Lipmanovich and Alexander Anisimov as they present a special concert in Curtiss Hall at the Fine Arts Building!
44 is the story of Obama you won't read about in history books...because history books are now banned in most states. But also because 44 is the story of Obama as Joe Biden kinda sorta remembers it... as a Musical.
Get ready to be amazed at the Northern Mid West Regional Aerial Competition, where aerial artists of all ages and skill levels will dazzle you with their strength, grace, and creativity! An electrifying celebration of aerial artistry for all levels and ages! From rising stars to elite performers, this unforgettable event brings together passion, power, and performance on every apparatus. In a thrilling finale, our world-renowned judges join the spotlight, showcasing their own breathtaking talents alongside fierce professional competitors—vying for the $1,000 grand prize. Witness a one-of-a-kind fusion of competition and showmanship in a single, spectacular event. Don’t miss your chance to be inspired—get your tickets now and experience the magic in the air!
Hoofing at the legendary Studebaker Theater, join the Chicago Human Rhythm Project’s final festival concert!
Join the Chicago Human Rhythm Project’s fourth festival concert! CHRP brings its annual tap dance show from Rhythm World 35 down to the Studebaker Theater.
Often an audience favorite, young artists from around the world share their rhythms, passion and in many cases, blistering technical prowess. Previous performers included MacArthur “Genius” Michelle Dorrance, Jazz at Lincoln Center soloist, Jared Grimes and CHRP’s Artistic Director Jumaane Taylor. The Student Showcase is a window into the future of tap!
The Fine Arts Building welcomes Chicago Sculpture International artists to the Second Floor Gallery this summer!
Curated by Wait Wait Don't Tell Me's Peter Sagal, featuring Hari Kondabolu, Negin Farsad & other special guests, this panel is about why and how religion is used in comedy, from Oh God! to The Good Place.
The award-winning dance film Prohairesis makes its Midwest Premiere!
Honoring the life and songs of the most influential composer & lyricist of the modern musical, Liz Callaway celebrates the master with a carefully curated evening of the words and music of Stephen Sondheim.
A world premiere production, She Who Dared recenters the spotlight on the courageous women who helped desegregate the Montgomery bus system in the 1950s.
Get ready to party like it’s 1999 with the Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus! Featuring over 200 voices and all the iconic pop classics you can handle, this high-energy show celebrates the music, fashion, and unforgettable moments of the 1990s. From boy bands to divas, grunge to dance hits, As If...the Gay '90s is a totally rad tribute to the decade that defined a generation.
Join The Chicago Academy for the Arts' Dance Department for their final performance of the 2024–2025 school year!
Featuring parodies of all of the classic characters, The Empire Strips Back: A Burlesque Parody takes audiences to a galaxy far, far away, creating one of the most unforgettable (and unauthorized) theatrical interpretations of the beloved franchise.
Join collage artist Diana Slaviero to toast the conclusion of her exhibition, Poppies, Poison & Peacocks. Share your thoughts and reactions to the evocative artwork while enjoying refreshments with fellow art lovers.
Seven Thirty Theatre presents the iconic Tony Award-winning Broadway musical!
An intimate evening of songs and stories with two living legends of instrumental music In support of their brand new unprecedented duet album, "Just Us".
Meet collage artist Diana Slaviero and view her vibrant new exhibition, Poppies, Poison & Peacocks. This collection is meant to inspire joy and passionate resistance to the poisonous political forces and intensity of modern life. Lively conversation and refreshments will be provided.
Andrés López, pioneer of stand-up comedy in Colombia and winner of the “HOLA” Award in the category of “Outstanding Solo Performance”, comes to the Studebaker Theater with his renowned and award-winning monologue LA PELOTA DE LETRAS.
The 2025 Winter Jazz Fair will conclude with a heartfelt tribute to one of Chicago's most iconic musical legends, Quincy Jones.
Join us on February 20 as we welcome House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries to the Studebaker Theater.
For one night only, this unique concert will be filled with intimate and funny behind-the scenes stories peppered with Rudetsky's encyclopedic knowledge of Broadway and mixed with incredible performances from Mueller's Broadway career and beyond!
Enjoy a romantic evening with the wonderful violinist Yi-Jia Susanne Hou on Valentines Day serenading you with romances for violin & orchestra by Beethoven, Dvorak and Svendsen and love inspired works by Kreisler. The Camerata Chicago Orchestra will complete the concert delighting you with the most celebrated romantic melody of all time: Romeo & Juliet Fantasy by Tchaikovsky.
"Ahora el Malandro sí está Asustado" es el más reciente show de stand-up comedy del comediante venezolano Emilio Lovera, en el que combina su característico humor ácido y observador con una crítica social cargada de ingenio.
Roosevelt University’s Chicago College of Performing Arts (CCPA) Symphony Orchestra presents a concert under the direction of CCPA Orchestra Director Stephen Squires. This performance also features CCPA Student Solo Competition Winner, Sava Velkoff, in Bartók’s Viola Concerto.
Celebrate the life and legacy of Lee Newcomer with this special concert at the Studebaker Theater, featuring Rachel Barton Pine.
Neko Case will take the Studebaker Theater stage to discuss her new book, The Harder I Fight the More I Love You: A Memoir. An unforgettable portrait of an extraordinary life—one forged through a poverty-stricken childhood in “slummy, one-horse towns”; obsessive desire; bursts of comedy; and indispensable friendships, reflecting on the way art, music, and a deep connection to nature helped her on a singular journey to become a beloved, Grammy-nominated artist.
Join The Chicago Academy for the Arts for a presentation of top work form all six of their arts departments. Secure your tickets today!
Created and performed by clown, nerd cheerleader, and Chicago favorite Vanessa Valliere with support from longtime collaborator Lindsey Noel Whiting, Look! Look! is a must-see celebration of the gross and beautiful, the sweet and creepy, the euphemistic and earnest and, most importantly, the weirdos. Performances of Look! Look! will take place in the Fine Arts Building's Little Studio, suite 732.
With puppets by Handspring Puppet Company, known for building the War Horse and Little Amal, Cape Town’s Baxter Theatre brings us a new level of exquisite bunraku-style puppet theater.
Iniskim – Return of the Buffalo is an intercultural artistic response to the return of the buffalo, as wild animals, to North America. We watch as a group of puppeteers are transformed by their experience of ‘being buffalo’ at night under the stars, guided by the stories of the Blackfoot Elders.
Take a break between the many Puppet Hub shows and exhibits in this puppet-inspired pop-up cafe inside the Fine Arts Building. Meet fellow puppetry enthusiasts for coffee, tea, winter soups and baked treats.
From the makers of Moby Dick and Chambre Noire, Plexus Polaire returns flaunting its mastery of the form and serving up large-scale spectacle, human size bunraku puppets, hypnotic video projection and their signature style of imbuing the puppet with storytelling power.
The Chicago Bar Association presents "Bar to the Future!" In its 101st annual year, the Chicago Bar Show continues to entertain lawyers and non-lawyers alike. We promise wackiness, fun, music and more.
Learn landscape painting and improve your plein air painting indoors with Fine Arts Building artist Don Yang!
Manual Cinema's awe-inspiring, one-of-a-kind rendition of the Dickens classic comes to the Studebaker Theater this holiday season.
The Chicago Jazz Orchestra performs the authentic edition of Tchaikovsky's "Nutcracker Suite," as arranged in 1960 by Billy Strayhorn and Duke Ellington, as well as Elvis tribute artist Victor Trevino Jr. performing holiday favorites from Elvis's best-selling Christmas album.
Seven Thirty Theatre presents the iconic Tony Award-winning Broadway musical!
Dog Man: The Musical is a hilarious production based on the worldwide bestselling series from Dav Pilkey, the creator of Captain Underpants and Cat Kid Comic Club.
Love, loss, and creation merge in unexpected ways as Manual Cinema presents its thrilling version of the classic Gothic tale Frankenstein. The Chicago-based performance collective imaginatively combines shadow puppetry, cinematic techniques, sound effects, and live music in haunting shows like nothing else you’ve ever seen.
This fall, WBEZ is proud to present a new film & live concert experience - A Century of Silent Cinema. Storied guitarist Marc Ribot joins us on October 20 at the Studebaker Theater as he performs his original score to Aelita: Queen of Mars. Unveil the power of cinema & music with silent films that speak volumes with their vivid imagery that will keep you on your toes the entire time. And who better to add a layer of sonic suspense than the eclectic and avant-garde Marc Ribot?
Absent Moon is an evening length performance of Winifred Haun & Dancers Repertoire. It will feature the world premiere of Winifred Haun's “Absent Moon,” a work for 9 dancers and 2 benches. The program will also include "The Fight to be Found" by Imani English, "When the Rain Speaks" by Julia Schaeffer, and the acclaimed "Your nearest exit may be behind you" choreographed by Winifred Haun in 2016.
The Camerata Chicago Orchestra is thrilled to present Brazilian violinist Guido Sant’Anna in his North American debut. Guido gained international recognition in 2022 when at seventeen he became the first South American violinist to win the prestigious International Fritz Kreisler Competition in Vienna.
Join us for an unforgettable night with Dalal Abu Amneh, the renowned Palestinian singer, songwriter, and neuroscientist. With her powerful voice and unique style, Dalal brings a fresh take on Arabic music, blending traditional Palestinian folk melodies with contemporary sounds.
Show off your creativity at the Fine Arts Building's Open Mic! Live from the Little Studio during select Second Fridays, join us for comedy, music, and more!
An off-the-wall break up story about a friend group navigating multiple apocalypses.
Leonora is based on a deeply moving, true story that took place in France in the 18th century that revolves around a young woman who disguises herself as a man and under the name of Fidelio to rescue her wrongfully imprisoned husband.
A funny and heartfelt journey to India. Sometimes words aren't enough when it comes to family and heritage. Presented in collaboration with Silk Road Cultural Center.
A raw and tender portrait of a family in dysfunction, set in a hoarder's house filled with inherited trash.
/ v. anthology / marks the culmination of PARA.MAR's fifth season, featuring an exclusive collection of works curated by founder and director Stephanie Martinez with renowned choreographers Jennifer Archibald, Xavier Nuñez, Hélène Simoneau, and Yin Yue.
Welcome to KAYODE'S solo art show: HOPE. Join us for a day filled with creativity and inspiration at the Little Studio in the Fine Arts Building.
Frank Sinatra’s recording legacy stands as the greatest of all American singers. Jeff Lindberg and the Chicago Jazz Orchestra team up with vocalist Paul Marinaro and you to honor this legacy.
Worldwide sensation - the MAGIC MEN AUSTRALIA are finally coming your way! Voted Australia’s BEST MALE DANCE GROUP, find out what makes these group of guys the talk of the town. So, grab your girls and enjoy an epic GIRLS NIGHT OUT, and be treated like a queen and experience a night of fun, laughter and lots of eye-candy.
New musicals. Open studios. Podcast tapings. Architecture tours. All this and more at the Fine Arts Building!
See the calendar