Chicago Theater Updates: Shows Closing, Extensions, and Board Changes

Closing Shows and Missing Extensions

‘Going Bacharach: The Songs of an Icon’ will close Sunday at the Apollo Theater. Although ticket sales initially soared, momentum waned, leading to a halt in its proposed extension. The show seeks other cities for continuation. This week is the last chance for Chicago audiences to enjoy this elegant revue of Burt Bacharach’s songs.

Laurie Metcalf’s Acknowledgments and Steppenwolf Tensions

Laurie Metcalf triumphed at the Tony Awards but received attention for omitting Steppenwolf Theatre in her acknowledgments. A past dispute involved Steppenwolf’s decision not to collaborate on ‘Little Bear Ridge Road’ with producer Scott Rudin, who enjoyed his own Tony success with ‘Death of a Salesman.’ At Metcalf’s request, Steppenwolf eventually released the rights to the Tony-nominated show.

Successful Broadway Run for ‘Purpose’

Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ ‘Purpose,’ which originated at Steppenwolf Theatre, recouped its $5.25 million Broadway capitalization. The achievement was aided by the New York State Tax Credit, alongside profits from its record-breaking run. All investors were reimbursed, and Steppenwolf was listed as a producer.

Carrie Coon Celebrates Regional Theatre Win

Carrie Coon, renowned for her performance in ‘Bug,’ took the stage to announce the Regional Theatre Tony Award for American Players Theatre in Spring Green, Wisconsin, a favorite among Chicago audiences.

Aurora’s Paramount Theatre Board Changes

Aurora’s Paramount Theatre faces significant board changes. Mayor John Laesch appointed new members, aiming for ‘diverse programming’ and ‘financial stability.’ New appointees include Juan Sifuentes, Diane Lantz, Natasha Prunty, and Christopher Childress. Paramount CEO Tim Rater was unavailable for comment, but mayoral influence is growing.

Theater Promotions and Extensions

The League of Chicago Theatres is offering a ‘Thank You 5’ summer promotion, providing $5 off at the Hot Tix box office from June 18 to July 3 using promo code THANKYOU5. Writers Theatre has extended ticket availability for ‘Leopoldstadt,’ now running at least through August 9. TUTA Theatre extended ‘Crime and Punishment’ to August 23 due to consistent sell-outs.

Upcoming and Ongoing Shows

This weekend, previews include ‘Leopoldstadt,’ ‘Untitled Vampire Play’ at Lookingglass Theatre, and ‘Catch As Catch Can’ featuring Gary Cole at Steppenwolf. Chris Jones recommends ‘Theater of the Mind’ at Goodman, ‘Going Bacharach: The Songs of an Icon’ at the Apollo Theater through Sunday, ‘Job’ at Writers Theatre through July 5, and several other shows around Chicago.