Goodman Theatre has released footage of scenes from MA RAINEY'S BLACK BOTTOM, August Wilson's landmark drama now playing through May 3, 2026 at the Albert Theatre, extended by popular demand.
MA RAINEY’S BLACK BOTTOM is a well-acted, slow-burn character study. August Wilson’s 1982 play centers on a fictitious 1927 Chicago album recording, as the musicians gather and wait for the notorious Ma Rainey (or Madam Rainey, as she demands they call her) to record her latest album. Ma Rainey has some dramatic tendencies — she’s an hour late to her own recording session and then comes in with a whirl of demands and suggestions for the session.
You can now get a first look at photos and videos of The Goodman’s Centennial Season revival of August Wilson’s Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom—helmed by Director Chuck Smith.
The 52nd Jeff Awards recognize excellence in Chicago's non-equity theaters, celebrating numerous artists and theater companies. Check out the full list of winners here!
At the 52nd Anniversary Joseph Jefferson Awards for Non-Equity Theater, more than 150 recognized artists and new emerging faces and voices will be honored in a program under the artistic direction of Adrian Abel Azevedo.
August Wilson’s Ma Rainey‘s Black Bottom returns to The Goodman, helmed by Chicago legends Chuck Smith and Harry J. Lennix. See rehearsal photos here!
Sister Act is now playing at Drury Lane Theatre, with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Glenn Slater, book by Cheri Steinkellner and Bill Steinkellner. Check out all new photos and video from the show here!
The 2025 Black Theatre Alliance Awards have announced nominations celebrating excellence in Chicago’s African American theatre community. The ceremony will take place October 27, 2025, at the Beverly Arts Center and honor ILesia Duncan with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Northlight Theatre will conclude its 2024–2025 season with the story of soul music icon Donny Hathaway in Twisted Melodies, written and performed by Kelvin Roston, Jr. Learn more and see how to purchase tickets.
The Black Rep has provided St. Louis audiences many opportunities to see the works of August Wilson. This is an entertaining, well-acted production of Radio Golf. It’s not only an aesthetically pleasing production, but it is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness a part of theatrical history with two actors reaching a personal theatrical milestone having now performed in all ten of Wilson’s century cycle plays. Wilson’s works give voice to the black experience in 20th century America with themes that are relatable to all theatergoers. This is an outstanding opportunity to see Wilson’s final and most contemporary play staged by a skilled director and a cast of five extraordinarily talented actors.
The 2024 Samuel G. Roberson Jr. Resident Fellowship, awarded to artivist Abby Thompson and Filament Theatre, was awarded for the development of the play Alex in Windyland, now slated for production at Filament Theatre.
Porchlight Music Theatre has revealed the young performers and dancers who will be joining its previously unveiled slate of Porchlight favorites and special guests at its annual fundraising concert. Learn more!
Porchlight Music Theatre has announced the cast for its annual fundraising concert celebrating Porchlight’s 30th anniversary, Chicago Sings 30 Years of Porchlight.
Mosaic Theater Company’s benefit The Spark 2025 will honor philanthropists Joan P. & David O. Maxwell, for their dedication to new plays, and award-winning playwright Mona Mansour, for her commitment to art and activism.
The Driehaus Museum and the African American Museum of Performing Arts have announced casting for A Nativity Tribute, an adaptation of Langston Hughes’ gospel song-play, Black Nativity.
Roche Schulfer and Charles Newell will receive the Special Equity Theater Award at the 56th Anniversary Jeff Awards. Learn more about the awards.
Court Theatre revealed the cast for EAST TEXAS HOT LINKS, directed by Ron OJ Parson. Learn more about the show and see how to purchase tickets.
The Jeff Awards revealed nominations for their 56th anniversary, celebrating excellence in Chicago's Equity theaters. Learn more!
The League of Chicago Theatres has awarded the 2024 Samuel G. Roberson Jr. Resident Fellowship to artivist Abby Thompson and Filament Theatre to collaborate on development of the play Alex in Windyland.
Court Theatre will present East Texas Hot Links. Learn more about the show and see how to purchase tickets.
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