Three Unique Places to Enjoy a Show in Chicago
Interesting Performance Venues in Neighborhoods Throughout the City
Sep 10, 2009
Thousands of tourists flock to the Windy City each year to visit the most popular attractions in the Midwest. The Sears Tower, Navy Pier, and other downtown sites draw in tourists like flies to honey. For theatre lovers, Chicago’s theatre district is a must-see. Randolph Street and other areas of the loop are home to Chicago’s most famous venues. While the downtown theatre district is an essential part of any theatre enthusiast’s Chicago itinerary, there are several other small venues all over Chicago’s 215 distinct neighborhoods. Venture out of the loop and enjoy a spectacular show at one of these three locations.
Davenport’s in Wicker Park Offers a Several Fun and Interactive Performances
Head down to Davenport’s in Wicker Park for a laid back show in a playful setting. Located on one of Wicker Park’s main strips, this bar opens up its cabaret room to a wide variety of different performers. The crowd at Davenport’s adds to its eclectic quality; on any given night both young, hip urbanites and nostalgic older folks can be found dancing, drinking, and enjoying cabaret-style performances. The drink menu includes delicious alcoholic treats such as Chocolate Raspberry Coke and a plethora of flavored martinis. Check the Davenport’s website to see the always-changing performance schedule, and be sure to make reservations in advance.
The downside to shows at Davenport’s is that they sometimes have a one or two-drink minimum in the cabaret room in addition to purchasing tickets. However, a patron can choose to fulfill this minimum with less expensive non-alcoholic beverages.
The Red Twist Theatre Rocks a Minimalist Performance Style in Edgewater
Take Lake Shore Drive north of downtown to the quiet, lake side neighborhood, Edgewater. At first glance, the Red Twist Theatre can easily be mistaken for one of the several small shops that line Bryn Mawr Road. This modest façade adds to Red Twist’s mission to exemplify “white hot drama in a tiny black box with a little red twist.” Red Twist does not distract its patrons with fancy props and elaborate scenery, but rather relies on its actors’ passion to convey a scene. This small theatre only has about 25 seats and serves as a place for an actor to hone his or her skills. While the Red Twist Theatre is a not-for-profit organization, the performances are imaginative, intimate, and above all, entertaining.
Be sure to get to the theatre early; seating is first come first serve and the seats toward the back of the theatre are uncomfortable. The theatre is also slightly expensive for a small non-profit but to help off set this cost, the Red Twist theatre’s website has downloadable coupons for discounts at some nearby restaurants.
Combine Dinner, Drinks, and Live Shows at The Spot in Uptown
The Spot in Uptown was created in 2005 to appeal to all different types of people, which explains its almost schizophrenic atmosphere. There is a restaurant, three distinct bars, and an assortment of unique performances. Whether a patron is looking for a live comedy act, a burlesque performance, or an improve group, all types of shows can be found here. The Spot is also famous for its fundraising activities; charities can rent out rooms in The Spot to raise money for their organizations. Stop down to The Spot to check out their trivia nights, and also to watch football games this fall.
These three venues are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Chicago theatre. On any given night throughout the city, a unique and interesting performance can easily be found. Leave the downtown scene and explore areas of Chicago not mentioned in the guide books.
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