Robert Falls is making a return to the Chicago theater scene, directing at Redtwist Theatre. Located at 1044 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., this small venue seats fewer than 50 people. Falls expressed excitement about returning to the Chicago storefront theater scene. His new project follows his restaging of the Mozart opera “Don Giovanni” at the Lyric Opera, a much larger venue. The upcoming show at Redtwist Theatre is a world premiere titled “Flying Monkeys,” written by Chicago’s L.C. Bernadine. It explores the world of the “troubled teen” transportation industry, where teens are taken from their families, sometimes at night. The show is scheduled to run from Dec. 6 to Jan. 17, 2027.
Bernadine, a producer and writer, is associated with the New Theatre Project, known for working in non-traditional spaces. Falls is eager to support Bernadine’s work. Casting has yet to be announced. Redtwist offers non-Equity actors a chance to work with an acclaimed director like Falls.
On Broadway, Bruce Norris’ “Downstate” is set to play at the Booth Theatre for a limited run. Directed by Joe Mantello, it features Chicago actors Francis Guinan and K. Todd Freeman. Many Chicagoans will make their Broadway debuts with “Paranormal Activity” at the August Wilson Theatre, including Cher Álvarez, Travis A. Knight, and Shannon Cochran. This production originated at Chicago Shakespeare Theater.
Shattered Globe Theatre has announced its 36th season at Theater Wit. Shows include the Midwest premiere of “Vladimir” by Erika Sheffer this fall, “The Waterfall” by Phanésia Pharel in winter, and “Brace Brace” by Oli Forsyth in spring.
Lookingglass Theatre’s “Kowalski” will feature Johnny Galecki, Jacob Moskovitz, and Alison Cimmet. Nora Dunn has left the cast of “The Humanities” due to scheduling conflicts.
The Chicago theater community mourns Kurt Ehrmann, who passed away at 58. Ehrmann was known for his impactful performances in productions like “Angels in America” and “Endgame.” His work was praised for its depth and emotional richness.
Chris Jones recommends: “Theater of the Mind” at the Goodman, “Pandemonium, Please Hold” at Second City, “Marble” by Gift Theatre, and “Vape! The Grease Parody” at Apollo Theater.
For feedback, contact Chris Jones at [email protected].