How Many Broadway Theaters Are in Chicago? A Friendly, In-Depth Look at Chicago‘s World-Class Theater Scene

Dear theater lover,

As a fellow enthusiast who adores the magic of live performances, I want to provide you with a detailed guide to the incredible theaters that make Chicago one of the world‘s greatest cities for theater. Nicknamed the "Broadway of the Midwest," Chicago dazzles with over a dozen stunning theaters that would impress anyone who appreciates architecture, history, and spectacular productions.

In this comprehensive article, we will explore Chicago‘s grand theaters, Broadway history, and why Chicago earns its reputation as a top theater destination. I‘ll share insider tips, fascinating details, and how to experience Chicago‘s stages like a local. Let‘s raise the curtain on Chicago‘s theaters!

Chicago‘s Storied History of Theater

Chicago‘s theater history stretches back to the mid-19th century, making it one of the oldest theater cities in America. In the early days, Chicagoans flocked to venues like McVicker‘s Theater, opened in 1857, and the landmark Iroquois Theater which opened in 1903 and tragically burned down just weeks after opening.

Despite the setback, Chicagoans passion for theater endured. The early 20th century saw grand establishments like the Oriental Theatre open in 1926 along with the Cadillac Palace and Auditorium Theatre. According to the League of Historic American Theatres, Chicago still boasts over 30 historic theaters in operation, more than any other U.S. city.

Chicago‘s Main Broadway-Style Theaters

Today, Chicago is home to seven gorgeous theaters with 2,000+ seats that host touring Broadway shows. Based on data from the Broadway League, over 2.1 million attended Broadway shows in Chicago in the 2018/19 season. Chicago trails only New York City and Toronto in total Broadway attendance.

Let‘s spotlight Chicago‘s palace-like main theaters:

Oriental Theatre – Opened 1926

This 2,200 seat Loop theater recently underwent a $1 million renovation and gleams with an elegant Far Eastern aesthetic. According to the Theatre Historical Society of America, it housed the record-breaking musical The Phantom of the Opera for over 10 years through 2020.

Cadillac Palace Theatre – Opened 1926

Designed by famous theater architects the Rapp Brothers, the Cadillac Palace Theatre is renowned for its opulent Baroque architecture, gilded decor, and massive French-inspired lobby. With over 2,500 seats, its massive stage has accommodated everything from The Book of Mormon to the North American debut of Cats.

CIBC Theatre – Opened 1906

Located on Randolph Street, this former Majestic Theatre boasts an inviting grand lobby with marble staircases. CIBC is now the largest theater in Chicago with 1,800 seats and has been the resident theater for Chicago‘s eagerly awaited production of Hamilton.

James M. Nederlander Theatre – Opened 1981

Originally known as the Oriental Theatre, not to be confused with the nearby Oriental Theater above, this glamorous theater boasts an Art Deco style and over 2,200 seats. According to TimeOut Chicago, it has hosted iconic shows like Rent, Les Misérables, Dear Evan Hansen, and more.

The PrivateBank Theatre – Opened 1906

Originally the Majestic Theatre, this landmark 1,500 seat theater is managed by Broadway in Chicago and hosts long-running sit-down productions. According to Playbill, it has presented shows from The Color Purple to Jersey Boys.

Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower – Opened 2010

This intimate theater seats just 500 in a contemporary setting and shows more limited-run productions. As Chicago‘s newest theater, it provides a small Broadway experience.

Auditorium Theatre – Opened 1889

This National Historic Landmark designed by Dankmar Adler and Louis Sullivan sits within Roosevelt University. Home to the Joffrey Ballet, it hosts international dance companies and major concerts.

Enjoying Broadway in Chicago

Many major touring Broadway productions are managed and presented by Broadway in Chicago. They handle individual and season ticket sales for productions at venues like the Cadillac Palace, Oriental, and CIBC Theatre.

Chicago theaters have hosted pre-Broadway tryouts of hit shows like Kinky Boots, Mean Girls, and Frozen. According to Playbill, Chicago‘s audience feedback has helped fine tune shows before their Broadway debuts.

As a Chicago theater expert, I recommend the following tips for visitors:

• Check HotTix booths for same-day discounted tickets
• Attend midweek shows for fewer crowds and better pricing
• See a longer-running Chicago production for a top-tier show experience
• Try a comedy, improv, or concert at a Chicago theater for something unique
• Take an architecture tour of Chicago‘s theaters for behind-the-scenes access
• Sign up for Broadway in Chicago memberships and email alerts for early ticketing access

Chicago‘s Theater Community Thrives

Beyond Broadway, Chicago boasts a vibrant theatre community. Over 250 theater companies are members of the League of Chicago Theatres, showcasing Chicago‘s dedication to the arts.

The Goodman Theatre, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, and Writers Theatre are three of Chicago‘s most lauded regional theaters. Steppenwolf alone has produced shows that have won 46 Tony Awards, according to the Chicago Tribune.

For comedy and improv, The Second City has launched comedians like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert. The Lyric Opera of Chicago and Chicago Symphony Orchestra offer incredible classical music and opera.

Chicago – Broadway of the Midwest

With its downtown Chicago Loop lined with blinking marquees and streets filled with theatergoers, Chicago exudes an energy matched only by Times Square. For theater fans, Chicago‘s stages offer endless nights of entertainment from Broadway blockbusters to experimental new works.

The Windy City leaves no doubt as to why it earns its nickname as the "Broadway of the Midwest." With so many world-class theaters, Chicago invites visitors to sit back in red velvet seats and enjoy a show. As the curtain rises, Chicago‘s theaters remind us of theater‘s magic.

I hope this guide gave you a helpful overview of Chicago’s incredible theaters! Let me know if you have any other questions as you plan your Chicago theater experience. Enjoy the show!