Morning Rehearsal: Chicago theater 6/14

Morning Rehearsal: Chicago theater 6/14
Rick Boynton, Heather Headley, Barbara Gaines, Gary Griffin,Sir Derek Jacobi, Michael Cerveris, Criss Henderson Photo by Joan Hackett
Morning Rehearsal: Chicago theater 6/14
Rick Boynton, Heather Headley, Barbara Gaines, Gary Griffin,Sir Derek Jacobi, Michael Cerveris, Criss Henderson Photo by Joan Hackett

Morning Rehearsal: Chicago theater 6/14

WBEZ brings you fact-based news and information. Sign up for our newsletters to stay up to date on the stories that matter.

1. Expect a little blood and gore this summer; Drury Lane Theatre has a production of Sweeney Todd starting previews August 11. Tony nominated Gregg Edelman plays our title character, and the production is choreographed and directed by Jeff Award winner Rachel Rockwell. Also part of the 2011-12 season is The Sound of Music, Broadway Bound, Gypsy and Aida.

Rick Boynton, Heather Headley, Barbara Gaines, Gary Griffin,Sir Derek Jacobi, Michael Cerveris, Criss Henderson (Photo by Joan Hackett)

2. Shakespeare is still very much alive in Chicago; last week, WBEZ’s neighbor, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, celebrated its 25th season during their Silver Jubilee Gala. They honored “those who keep the spirit of Shakespeare alive through community service and artistic leadership,” which meant performances by past and present ensemble members. Tony Award winners Heather Headley and Michael Cerveris were there, as well as the usual motley crew of CST actors, old and new.

3. Strawdog and A Red Orchid have announced their 2011-12 seasons. Strawdog also has a fundraising event this Saturday with entertainment provided by their very own ensemble members at the William H. Reid house, a mansion on Prairie Avenue that was built in the 1800s.

4. Sneak in to Northwestern’s graduation this weekend and hear Stephen Colbert’s commencement speech. Colbert’s a graduate of the University; no word on whether his alter-ego, or himself, will be giving the speech. And for a preview, remind yourself of the potential for hilarity/disaster and rewatch his White House Correspondents’ dinner speech.

5. Collaboraction’s Workbook: Devolve is this Friday and Saturday nights. In conjunction with Sketchbook: Evolution, the show is, as usual, a few shorter works by different theater troupes.

Questions? Tips? Email kdries@wbez.org.