Theater events: 'Burning Bluebeard' returns while Blue Man Group, magicians welcome 2019

Posted December 21, 2018 5:00 am

Halena Kays directs the 2018 remount of The Ruffians' "Burning Bluebeard," by Jay Torrence, produced in collaboration with The Neo-Futurists. Seen here is the cast from the 2014 production. Courtesy of Evan Hanover

• Actor/comedian Michael Colyar ("Black-ish," "Everybody Hates Chris") brings his adults-only solo show to the DuSable Museum of African American History, 740 E. 56th Place, Chicago. Titled "Momma," the autobiographical show reflects the role his mother played through his life's highs (winning "Star Search," network appearances) and lows (drug addiction and financial problems). The show runs Friday through Sunday, Dec. 21-23. See dusablemuseum.org.

• Illusion and technology combine in magician Jamie Allan's iMagician show making its U.S. premiere Saturday, Dec. 22, at the Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St., Chicago. Allan incorporates lasers and visuals in his show, which includes versions of Harry Houdini's most dangerous illusions. Performances run through Jan. 6. (312) 334-7777 or harristheaterchicago.org.

The Ruffians and The Neo-Futurists remount their acclaimed, bittersweet production "Burning Bluebeard" based on the devastating 1903 Iroquois Theatre fire. Ryan Walters, seen here, appeared in the 2011 production. Courtesy of Evan Hanover

• "Burning Bluebeard," the acclaimed holiday co-production between The Ruffians and The Neo-Futurists, returns for seven performances from Wednesday through Monday, Dec. 26-31, at 5153 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago. Based on the 1903 Iroquois Theatre fire, during which more than 600 audience members were killed at a matinee performance of the musical "Mr. Blue Beard," Jay Torrence's fantastical tale involves six clowns who emerge from the fire's burned remains to perform the show one last time. Halena Kays directs the production. A special New Year's Eve double bill that includes dinner and a performance of the Neo-Futurists "The Infinite Wrench" costs $75. See neofuturists.org.

• The Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St., hosts a sensory-friendly-relaxed performance of "A Christmas Carol" in partnership with Autism Speaks at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 29. The accommodations include a quiet area for patrons who need a break during the performance; dimmed houselights; space for standing and movement; and limited crowds. (312) 443-3800 or goodmantheatre.org.

• The Chicago Magic Lounge has added holiday performances of its "Signature Show," which tips its hat to Chicago's magic bar scene by pairing close-up magic with stage magic. Performances run at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 26; 7 and 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Dec. 27-29; and 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 30, at 5050 N. Clark St., Chicago. Tickets for the Signature Show range from $39.50 to $54.50. The Magic Lounge hosts a family-friendly New Year's Eve show at 3:30 p.m. Dec. 31 for kids 5-16 and their parents. Tickets cost $25. Doors open at 8:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 31, for the adults-only NYE show, which includes close-up and stage magic, mentalism, live jazz and a champagne toast at midnight. Performers include headliner and mind reader Mark Toland; magician/comedian Trent James; close-up magician Ryan Plunkett; and the Dillard Organ Trio. Tickets range from $65 to $80. (312) 366-4500 or chicagomagiclounge.com.

Chicago's Blue Man Group hosts New Year's Eve performances for children and adults. Courtesy of Blue Man Group Chicago

• The Blue Man Group rings in 2019 with four New Year's Eve Performances at the Briar Street Theatre, 3133 N. Halsted St., Chicago. Kid-friendly shows are at 1 and 4 p.m. Monday, Dec. 31, and include pre-performance face painting and a faux midnight countdown. At the 7 p.m. performance, adults receive complimentary champagne and party hats. Those who attend the 10 p.m. performance can participate in a countdown with noisemakers, a champagne toast and a confetti drop. Tickets range from $49-$99. (800) 258-3626 or blueman.com.

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