Why Chicago Is America's Perfect Theater Escape
Growing up, live theater was simply part of our family’s life. Some families spent Friday nights at football games; mine spent them in Chicago theaters.
Although we lived in the suburbs, my parents were regular theatergoers. They subscribed to the Goodman long before I understood what a subscription was, eagerly supported emerging companies like Wisdom Bridge and Organic Theater, and rarely missed a production at the Lyric Opera. Looking back, I realize they were witnessing the growth of what would become one of the greatest theater cities in America.
I didn’t usually go to those evening performances – they were a little too grown-up for me – but theater still found its way into my life. There always seemed to be an older cousin starring in a high school musical, and I was completely captivated. I was certain that one day I’d be on stage too.
For one glorious moment, I was.
I landed a role in a youth production of The Wonderful White Ice Cream Suit. 😅 I can’t tell you much about my performance, and somewhere along the way my dream of becoming an actress quietly faded. But my love of live theater never did.
Looking back, I realize I wasn’t just growing up around theater. I was growing up during one of the most exciting periods in Chicago’s theatrical history.
I still get excited when the lights dim and the curtain rises.
Today, one of my favorite things about owning Magic Factory Lofts is helping guests discover the Chicago theater scene that has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. Whether it’s an intimate production at Steppenwolf, a thought-provoking evening at Timeline, or a Broadway musical that sends you out humming all the way back to the loft, I love matching people with a show they’ll still be talking about over breakfast the next morning.
When people think of theater destinations, New York usually gets all the attention. But ask serious theater lovers where they return year after year, and Chicago is always part of the conversation.
What makes Chicago special isn’t just the number of theaters—it’s the culture that surrounds them. With more than 200 professional theater companies, Chicago offers everything from intimate storefront productions to world premieres, Tony Award-winning regional theater, and Broadway musicals. Many productions that eventually make their way to New York begin their lives here, where playwrights, directors, and actors have the freedom to take creative risks before a discerning audience.
One of the things that makes Chicago theater so special is that it’s artist-driven. At Steppenwolf, the ensemble of actors has always been at the heart of the company’s identity, developing extraordinary performances through years of working together. At the Goodman, each season is carefully crafted by artistic leaders who bring together visionary directors, playwrights, designers, and performers to create productions that are both entertaining and thought-provoking. Every company has its own personality, but they all share a commitment to great storytelling rather than simply putting on a show.
What keeps me coming back, though, is the variety. One night you can spend an evening deeply moved by an intimate drama, the next night laughing through a Broadway musical, and then discover a historical story at Timeline Theatre that sends you home wanting to learn more. Every theater has its own personality, and part of the fun is discovering which ones speak to you.
One of Chicago’s best-kept secrets, however, has nothing to do with the stages themselves.
You don’t have to wait for the weekend.
One of the things I love about Chicago’s theater scene is that it’s just as vibrant on a Tuesday night as it is on a Saturday. In fact, I often prefer a midweek performance. Restaurants are easier to get into, parking and traffic are a little less hectic, and there’s something that feels wonderfully indulgent about taking a break from the normal workweek for a great dinner followed by an unforgettable performance.
One of Chicago’s best-kept secrets, however, has nothing to do with the stages themselves.
You don’t have to wait for the weekend.
One of the things I love about Chicago’s theater scene is that it’s just as vibrant on a Tuesday night as it is on a Saturday. In fact, I often prefer a midweek performance. Restaurants are easier to get into, parking and traffic are a little less hectic, and there’s something that feels wonderfully indulgent about taking a break from the normal workweek for a great dinner followed by an unforgettable performance.
