Chicago exploded with theater openings over the past week, so please indulge me while I talk you through them. With so many reviews coming at once, it's easy for great shows to get lost. This has been the best single week of Chicago theater since before the pandemic. 

The best of several impressive new shows was "The Attic," a beautifully emotional world premiere at the Goodman Theatre. It's of particular interest for those interested in the circus, for sure, but is also fully accessible to anyone who appreciates exceptional work. This one is absolutely not to be missed. I hope it makes it to Broadway. 

The second four-star attraction to open recently was "Kowalski," a hugely entertaining little play about the day when Marlon Brando met Tennessee Williams, with combustible results. At just 90 minutes, this one is ideal for those of you interested in 20th century celebrity and culture and who like to see star actors like Johnny Galecki, who will exceed all your expectations. I hope this one makes it to Broadway, too.

The third four-star attraction was "Play On!" at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, a slick and jazzy entertainment celebrating the music of Duke Ellington and offering an ideal date night. I hope this one makes it to Broadway, too.  

And, in the department of fun to be had, let me also note this is the final week of "Dirty Dancing," pure escapism but much improved from prior tours. Power-ballad fanatics will have a blast at Kokandy Productions' "Jekyll & Hyde," which has moved downtown, and those who love old-school Chicago stories should hit up "The Front Page" at Northlight's spiffy new Evanston theater. 

Surely, there is something there in all that for you!

— Chris Jones, chief theater critic