Circus Themed CATS & More Lead Chicago's May 2025 Top Theatre Shows
Check out our top shows for May 2025 in Chicago.
By: Team BWW Apr. 30, 2025
Chicago is never lacking outstanding theatre, whether epic Broadway shows, engrossing dramas or bold fringe offerings. BroadwayWorld is rounding up our top recommended theatre every month.
We understand the importance of choosing the perfect show, especially for new theatregoers. That's why our experienced editorial team meticulously reviews a wide range of productions each month. We consider various factors including a producer's track record, audience reviews, and overall production value, to bring you the very best recommendations for the following month.
See what the experts recommend! Check out our editorial team's top picks for the best shows to see in Chicago for May 2025.
Cats
Paramount Theatre - Now through June 15, 2025
Paramount Theatre presents a circus-themed revival of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Cats, running from April 30 to June 15, 2025. Directed by Trent Stork, this production will feature stunning acrobatics and performances from a talented cast, including Emily Rohm as Grizabella, Lorenzo Rush Jr. as Old Deuteronomy, and Donovan Hoffer as Rum Tum Tugger. Audiences will be immersed in the whimsical world of the Jellicle cats as they explore themes of identity and redemption through music and dance, highlighted by iconic songs like “Memory.” This reimagining promises to be a unique experience, showcasing the athletic grace of circus performers alongside the beloved characters of the musical.
For tickets: click here.
The Book of Grace
Steppenwolf Theatre Company - March 27, 2025 through May 18, 2025
Grace looks for the good in everything: in her husband’s rules, in the border he patrols, in the return of his estranged son. But a want for goodness cannot unwind the past, as this taut family reunion explodes in all directions. The Chicago premiere of Suzan-Lori Parks’ The Book of Grace is an incendiary family portrait from the Pulitzer Prize-winning writer of Topdog/Underdog. Witness this startling reminder that the search for common ground can be a brutal journey for those on every side of the divide.
For tickets: click here.
The Da Vinci Code
Drury Lane Theatre - April 09, 2025 through June 01, 2025
Dan Brown’s global best-selling thriller comes to life on stage in this action-packed Chicago premiere. Adapted by Rachel Wagstaff and Duncan Abel, The Da Vinci Code follows Professor Robert Langdon and cryptologist Sophie Neveu as they race to unravel an ancient mystery hidden in plain sight. Directed by Elizabeth Margolius and starring Jeff Parker and Vaneh Assadourian, this gripping theatrical event promises suspense, secrets, and high-stakes intrigue.
For tickets: click here.
Legally Blonde
The Edge Theater - April 25, 2025 through May 04, 2025
A fabulously fun award-winning musical based on the adored movie, Legally Blonde The Musical, follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. Totally catchy and exploding with memorable songs and dynamic dances - the musical is so much fun, it should be illegal!
For tickets: click here.
Hadestown (Chicago)
CIBC Theatre - May 06, 2025 through May 18, 2025
Welcome to HADESTOWN, where a song can change your fate. Winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards® including Best Musical and the 2020 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Theater Album, this acclaimed new show from celebrated singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and original director Rachel Chavkin (Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812) is a love story for today… and always. Intertwining two mythic tales — that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife Persephone — HADESTOWN is a haunting and hopeful theatrical experience that grabs you and never lets go.
For tickets: click here.
Looking to include your shows? Submit them to our listings here.
Videos