by Rachel Weinberg - March 03, 2026
THE BRIEF WONDROUS LIFE OF OSCAR WAO is a lopsided stage adaptation of Junot Díaz’s 2007 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. While the first act is tight and focuses squarely on the budding relationship between ultra-nerd Oscar Wao and his freshman year college roommate Yunior, the second act incorpora...
by Tina St. Angelo - February 23, 2026
The Joffrey Ballet is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year. The current offering is called Icons. What a gift to the audience. I don’t know if Robert Joffrey had any idea what his company has become. Icons recreate 4 different ballets from different decades over the 20th Century....
by Rachel Weinberg - February 19, 2026
When I think of Steppenwolf, I often think of family members crying, screaming at one another, or some combination of the two. So the sparring between spouses Alice and Captain Edgar in August Strindberg’s 1900 play THE DANCE OF DEATH feels right at home. In a surprisingly funny and sharp version ...
by Tina St. Angelo - February 17, 2026
What did our critic think of DEAR EVAN HANSEN at Paramount Theatre Aurora IL?...
by Rachel Weinberg - February 14, 2026
Royal Shakespeare Company’s HAMNET is a dramatic and languid stage adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s 2020 buzzy novel of the same name....
by Rachel Weinberg - February 13, 2026
THE OUTSIDERS presents an original and vibrant stage adaptation of S.E. Hinton’s classic 1967 novel about the conflict between Tulsa teen gangs the Greasers and the Socs (short for socialites). The musical — and particularly director Danya Taymor’s inventive and visually dynamic staging — pu...
by Tina St. Angelo - February 12, 2026
What did our critic think of ON YOUR FEET! at Drury Lane Theatre Oakbrook Terrace, IL?...
by Rachel Weinberg - February 10, 2026
Goodman Theatre continues its centennial season with the endearing and lively romantic comedy HOLIDAY....
by Tina St. Angelo - February 07, 2026
What did our critic think of LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS at Marriott Theatre, Lincolnshire IL?...
by Misha Davenport - February 07, 2026
What did our critic think of DRACULA: A COMEDY OF TERRORS at Lazy Susan Theatre Co.?...
Past Shows
Joe Gatto, renowned for his roles in Impractical Jokers and The Misery Index, brings his Let's Get Into It tour to the UIS Performing Arts...
Charlie Berens will perform at the UIS Performing Arts Center on February 2, 2025. Known for his comedic online news show, the Manitowoc Minute, Berens...
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas returns to the UIS Performing Arts Center on December 21, featuring the distinctive sounds of Chip Davis and his ensemble. With over...
Doctor Voynich and Her Children is a thought-provoking production presented by the UIS Performing Arts Center in collaboration with Coalescence Theatre Project. This play delves...
All Access: A Show for Every Body showcases a diverse array of artists with disabilities, highlighting themes of inclusion and representation. Hosted by artist-in-residence Steve...
Date Night with Voice and Guitar: Love Songs features singer-songwriter Kevin Aldrich and vocalist Diane Dietz as they present a selection of love songs spanning...
Experience Tator Tots is a 60-minute performance that invites audiences to enjoy an engaging and accessible theatrical experience. Set to take place on November 14,...
UIS Performing Arts Center presents a free Writing for the Stage workshop series, offering aspiring playwrights the chance to learn the fundamentals of playwriting. Led...
Date Night with It Takes Four to Tango features the UIS Music Faculty String Quartet as they share and explore dance traditions from around the...
One Hundred Strings: Traditional Music of India offers a cultural exploration of Indian music through live performance, showcasing the rich musical heritage of the region....
David Becker brings his acclaimed performance, PLANETS, to the UIS Performing Arts Center on October 5, 2024. This engaging evening promises a captivating blend of...
The Lifespan of a Fact explores the complex interplay between truth and fiction in a compelling narrative that resonates long after the performance. This engaging...
Date Night with Electric Bass Quintet features Max Beckman leading a unique ensemble of four bass guitarists, showcasing original compositions that blend bass and vocals....
Date Night with Comedy Magic and Mentalism features local magicians Jesse James and Rha-Bea, who will deliver an engaging performance filled with comedy magic and...
Videos