This is a small, intimate theater and honestly a really unique experience. The space itself is super interesting, I think it used to be some sort of old water or industrial facility, though I'm not totally sure. It adds a lot to the atmosphere. We saw White Rooster and thought it was really good. Because of how the space is set up, you feel like you're part of the show instead of just watching it, which made it way more engaging than a typical theater. read more

Lookingglass Theatre - Outside - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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We saw a production of Moby Dick here that we will never forget. Amazing production design- so impactful and nuanced. Just great.

Lookingglass is an interesting theater. It's an ensemble that if I recall correctly was established by some theatre alumni from Northwestern; David Schwimmer is a co-founder, and Joey Slotnick is also an ensemble member. They've been around for over 30 years now, and have been producing quality theatre consistently throughout that time. There have been a few works that I've wanted to see here (one that was based on the Eastland disaster), but I think the only one I've only seen Still Alice. It was a fantastic production! They don't always do work that interests me but I'd definitely consider returning if they were doing a show I really wanted to see. The space is kinda cool; they're located in the water tower pumping station, so it's neat to see that as you go to and from the theatre. Parking is available around the area and they validate for some places, so make sure you find the correct spot and bring your ticket. read more

What a phenomenal little theatre! I've seen a couple of shows here now and each has been just an incredible experience. I love how the stage/seats are set up differently each time for an experience that is unique to the show. Lucy and Charlie's Honeymoon this past month was my favorite so far! A show about 2 Asian Americans navigating through life (i.e. family pressure/expectations and societal racism) set to the tune of original country western? Bizarre and awesome at the same time! Definitely a must-see. read more

Last night I had the privilege to see "What to Send Up When it Goes Down" at LookingGlass Theatre. I am speechless. One of the most impactful, unique, and thoughtful pieces of theatre I have ever seen. Truly. From the set, to script, to costuming, every detail was done so purposefully and with such intention that the show commanded respect before any actor even spoke their first sentence. However, it was the actors and direction that made this piece of theatre so incredible. I have never been a part of a theatrical experience like this. The absolute POWER these actors had of themselves, the space, and the audience was something that would leave anyone in awe. I was sobbing, laughing, reflecting, and ENGAGED all throughout the production. These actors were able to be sobbing with us and then able to bring the joy back in. The control they have of themselves while also being able to be THERE with the audience and truly experiencing these feelings along with us? They are masters of their craft. I am so thankful, so thankful, to have gotten to see this production. Thank you Congo Square Theatre for creating this piece, thank you for creating the space, thank you to ALL actors and creative team on this process. I cannot wait to see what you all create next. Because I will be there. LookingGlass Theatre- If this is the work that you bring into your space then you have a patron and fan for life. I am telling everyone I know to see this show while they still can. Thank you. read more

We've seen Treasure Island, Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, and Alice. Phenomenal productions, incredible casts, not a bad seat in the house. read more

Lookingglass Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I organized a group outing to The Lookingglass Theater to see Lookinglass Alice with 40 guests including children. The staff were so easy to work with and made the logistical planning super easy. The show was incredible! It included singing, dancing and acrobatic stunts. It was funny and some parts made me jump out of my seat. The theater is intimate and it makes the whole experience really interactive. It is in the original water tower which has an incredible history. I recommend this show to all ages! read more

Lookingglass Theatre - Lookingglass Alice - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Did you know that there are over 250 Theaters in Chicago? Location- The lobby at the Lookingglass Theater is located adjacent to the Chicago Public Libary at 821 N. Michigan Avenue inside the Water Tower Water Works Building with access on Pearson Street. The lobby area offers theater lovers to obtain information on current plays in Chicago as well as a kiosk with the current plays for the Lookingglass Theater. There are plenty of free pamplets for individuals to obtain and many offer coupons. In addition, you may purchase tickets at the main desk for performances at the Lookingglass Theater. Upcoming performances include (2019): Acts of God=February 13-April 7, 2019 Mary Shelley's Frankenstein=May 8-August 4, 2019 FYI-If you "check-in" using YELP you are offered $5.00 off your ticket at the Lookingglass Theater! read more

Lookingglass Theatre - Upcoming Performance Pamphlets 2019 - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Culture vulture in the house. I wanted to take advantage of Chicago Theatre Week 2019 and decided to come here for a Saturday evening performance of Act(s) of God. I didn't know what to expect going in seeing as how it was my first time here to attend a show. I had heard raves about the performance space and of course passed by a number of times seeing as how the theatre is across the street from Water Tower Place and in the historic Water Tower Works building. Though the space is intimate, good use is made of the physical surroundings. I found the stagecraft to be innovative and suited to audience engagement. I lucked into a seat in the front row. The production itself was smaller and more experimental, dark but with some funny moments. The plot centered on the idea of a divine spirit and the members of a family having a range of opinions on the spectrum of religious belief. Although there were two intermissions the time flew by and I don't remember even looking at my watch. Those of us in the first few rows were given a heads-up about a special effect in the third act. I appreciated the fact that this was an edgier performance, and not cookie-cutter. I will definitely keep an eye on the current season's calendar to keep apprised of plays that I might like to see here. read more

Lookingglass is such a magical place housed in a unique location. They always have amazing plays. The theater company always has thought provoking viewpoints on their plays. Plays that I have enjoyed include; Plantation Moby Dick The Steadfast Tin Solder The sets have ranged from minimalist (Moby Dick) to amazing (Plantation). read more

We came here for a friend's bachelorette party -- another friend of ours is a subscriber and was able to get us a really great young people's group discount or something (I need to look into that more for the future, because I'd love to come back). The location is super convenient, and the theater is really unique. It's nondescript on the inside, and you literally walk through a water plant on the way out. I wasn't expecting the layout inside (it's kind of like a movie theater, in that the exits are in the front and you walk up to your seat instead of walking down). We saw "Hard Times", which I admittedly knew nothing about ahead of time. They really integrated the circus elements brilliantly, so that it complemented the plot of the show rather than being overly showy. The actors were wonderful, and I'm not usually one to be engrossed by non-musicals, but I was captivated. Also, for the location, parking is super easy. $10 at the John Hancock with validation. read more

I was invited to the play, "Mr. Rickey Calls A Meeting," at the Lookingglass Theatre. This was the first time, I've ever been at this theater and I've always wanted to attend a play here. Because the theater is in the historical water tower building, expansion is not an option. The entry way is a little tight but nothing to complain about. The waiting area is larger with benches against the wall. You were able to move about and mingle or grab a cocktail at the bar. The auditorium was actually deceit size room. You walk past the stage to your seating. The seating is stadium style so there isn't a bad seat in the house. The chairs were very comfortable and plenty of leg room. The play and actors were great. Looking forward seeing more plays at this theater. Check it out. read more

Lookingglass Theatre - The stage for "Mr. Rickey Calls A Meeting" - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I just wanted to give a shout-out to Amy H's review, as I too was at the Thursday performance of The Last Act of Lilka Kadison (thanks Yelp!). I have never been to the Lookingglass Theatre, but I have always wanted to visit because it is housed in the old Water Tower Water Works structure (part of the Water Tower architectural "chess set"). It's a fairly intimate theater considering it is on the Mag Mile, with probably around 200 seats. Our seats were like doctor's office waiting room seats so it was not the most comfortable sitdown, but the staff was friendly and the small bar area had some good selections. The play itself was outstanding (though I admit that I am not a play expert), with some fine acting performances that nearly brought a tear to my eye. The complex sets were remarkably innovative and creative as well (dare I say Monty Python-esque?), adding to the richness of the experience. Lookingglass has a solid reputation as an award-winning theatre company, and hopefully I will be seeing some of these performers elsewhere down the road. read more

Lookingglass knocked it out of the park again with Icarus. I loved this show for much different reasons than Arabian Nights, but in the end, I left feeling amazed, moved, and delighted again. The entire production was relatively spartan, but the few touches of scene and prop were very effective. Some elements of the staging were whimsical (e.g. the triple births accomplished with front-worn backpacks holding lunchboxes) while some were haunting (hanging up onesies around the stage to represent the fourteen Athenian children demanded by King Minos to slake his thirst for retribution). The only grand touches besides the dialogue and acting were the awesome aerial stunts. They were a sort of captivating combination of dance and acrobatics...difficult to categorize but in any case, along with the music, used quite evocatively in the storytelling. All of the actors were excellent, especially Lindsey Whiting as Icarus (and Pasiphae). The small cast of six filled thirteen main roles; the shifts occurred seamlessly but never confusingly. I recognized a few of the faces from Arabian Nights. A strong, dynamic, passionate young company seems to be one of their great strengths. Arabian Nights and Icarus make Lookingglass subscription-worthy to me, and that is saying a lot. I can't wait to see their offerings for next season. read more

There aren't enough words to express how phenomenal Alice was!! It feels like the actors poor their heart and souls into each performance; they're able to bring you into every emotions the character is feeling, the ups and the downs. The way they utilize everyday items as props to incorporate into the performance is just adds to the uniqueness of the play. What a magical play, I cannot thank the Lookingglass troupe enough. The feeling you have after one of these plays is a once in a lifetime experience and only leaves you wanting more and more. They have me sold on buying a season just from the performance of Alice. read more

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The play ended hours ago and I'm still stunned. A visiting friend and I went last night to see "Arabian Nights" at the Lookingglass Theatre. I have not had much opportunity to partake of Chicago's theater scene as yet in my two years in town, so I was delighted to be getting to see this show, which has gotten such glowing reviews. It definitely lived up to them. The space of this theater is small, which I prefer, only five rows (of office chairs) on three sides of the stage, and the actors enter from all the aisles throughout the performance, so the audience has a sense of participation; being practically on top of the stage will do that too (there's really not a bad seat to be had). You were immediately drawn in with vibrant music, and the performers don't let go of you until the end. The rich costumes, lush carpets and shapely lanterns all set the Eastern tone, from Egypt to Iraq to India, as Scherezade told her tales; the lighting director is to be commended for unique and memorable work. This is truly a "something for everyone" piece: I thought it was going to be mostly a drama, but there was plenty of comedy (including some bawdy and bodily function humor), music and acrobatic dance, tastefully presented sexuality, and even a bit of modern political commentary (which seemed rather out of place and struck a sour note in what was otherwise a whimsical melody). The cast played a variety of roles throughout the night and a range of tones, from satiric to melancholic. The audience really couldn't ask for more. The Lookingglass has an interpretation of Phaedra (Fedra: Queen of Haiti) on its docket next season; I am looking forward to checking that out. This is definitely a company to watch if you like an intimate setting and an ambitious production. read more

Haven't you always wanted to fly? That has always been one of the reasons I love the story Peter Pan and I feel that was aptly captured at last night's performance. We decided to subscribe to the Lookingglass after being stunned by their production of Our Town. We switched from subscribing to Steppenwolf as their plays became so dark and dysfunctional - as the sets got better and better there, the plays got worse. Which brings me to another part I love about this theatre - the minimalist sets. The art is the ability of the actors to create theater without all the trappings and transcend the physical space. This is live theater at its finest and what we have experienced here. Can't wait for Ethan Frome! read more

Lookingglass Theatre - Great location for a theater and historical building = Lookingglass Theatre. - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

First I have to say thank you to Yelp for providing the tickets for me and my daughter to see "In the Garden" To be honest I didn't know what this play was about when I stepped into the Lookingglass, I was just ecstatic to be there because I love plays. What I also didn't know is that this theatre is right across the street from Water Tower Place. I had no expectations when I went and if I had it would have broken each one of them. I like small theatre they make you feel like you are truly apart of the play. There were only 6 cast members but boy did they dive into each roll they played. I have to admit my momma bear kicked in when I saw the two young cast members who did great by the way and they were up passed 8pm working...lol In my head I was thinking don't they have to go to school in the morning are they going to be able to get up. Don't mind me I'm a mother of four young adults now and sometimes I revert back to the old days...lmao Those kids acted their butts off and I was so engaged in the story that at first I didn't realize this was a play about Charles Darwin. I'm not going to lie it took me a minute but it was like the cherry on the top of a Sundae when they started speaking of the "Origin of Species" My daughter and I both was like duh! I swear when it first started and from the title "In the Garden" I thought were going to be talking about Adam and Eve. The play was about two and a half hours long and it didn't even feel like it at all. When intermission was over it seemed as if the second part flew by as quickly as it took me to sit down in my seat. I would come back too the Lookingglass and see other plays and if you haven't heard of them like I hadn't you should really check them out you will not be disappointed. Enjoy! read more

Lookingglass Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Just saw Lookingglass Alice last month and I thought it was pretty great. I've been here before so I kinda knew what I was going to walk into. The seating is very intimate and the cast totally got us engaged in Lookingglass Alice. They kept us entertained and I was blown away by all the costumes. The acrobatic moves in this play were amazing along with all the colors and the acting was great. There are almost no bad seats here since its such a small theater. We got the tickets at a great deal I think on goldstar and I have been here before and I think I saw Arabian Nights and I also thought that was a great production. I'm pretty sure I will be back to Lookingglass theater sometime next year. read more

Lookingglass Theatre - Performing Arts Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Pro: - Shows with high production value and usually great visuals. - More family oriented shows (attractive to kids and tourists). Cons: - Not at all affordable. There are way better student/rush/any other kinds of discounts through other theaters in the city. The best tickets you can find for this theater are usually through outside venders such as HotTix and with extra fees, this means you will at the very least drop 30 dollars. - Acting here is always mediocre. Most of their cast is made up of their own ensemble members. Once in a while I see a good performance by one actor, but for the most part the acting is consistently presentational, shouty, and lacks depth. - Unfocused plays. Characters are always speaking way too many lines with exposition versus focusing on relationship. For a theater known for adaptation and original works, I find they could always use help with editing. read more

We made this part of our holiday trip to Chicago, it was marvelous in every way. Saw the gorgeous, original "Steadfast Tin Soldier" with my family. Elevate your expectations, Hans Christian Anderson did not pander to children. This theater company is original in every way: props, set, shifting perspective, the cast - but that's all I will say because part of its delight is the way it surprises. Less than an hour show. (For a lovely itinerary: dinner at Pacific Standard Time, walk to theater which lets you enjoy the Mag Mile lights and decor, see show, then do the touristy thing and walk a couple of blocks to the Starbucks Roastery in hopes the crowds will be a bit diminished). read more

Two confessions: 1) I've never seen "Our Town". I don't know a lick about the Americana that exudes from Mr. Wilder's thoughtfully written script, and minimalist stage direction. Two lashings. 2) I got tickets because of #1, but I also wanted to see Ross Geller a.k.a. David Schwimmer. I had a crush on him at one point and may or may not have been seeking reignition. Sadly, Rossy Boy didn't make an appearance. The collective crowd sighed in disappointment (because we're all that petty), but truthfully the Lookingglass provided plenty of reassurance that it would be alright. It's not just that the theater in the round makes the audience feel like "Well, we're in this together. Let's enjoy ourselves," but it's got the effect of tea before bedtime. Soothing, tucked away, quaint and private. Walking past the steaming pipes of water being reclaimed makes you feel like you should wear safety goggles when you enter the theater. "Is this it? Are we at Blue Man Group?" But the intimacy of the space, sitting next to those who love theater so much their palms sweat, it makes it all feel just right. "Our Town" was truly a delight. It has the kind of message you want to bottle up and drink for breakfast every morning. That we the living don't know what we have, we just don't know. It was an honor to see this production. My girlfriend who knows the script word for word said it was her favorite of the dozens she has seen. With tears in her eyes, I believe her. read more

I came here with a group of students and I have to say I couldn't be happier with the group reservation process and availability for large-ish school groups for a matinee. I was able to reserve seats ahead of time but only needed to pay a deposit for the tickets, so I was able to pay a small amount up front and collect ticket fees from my students in the lead up to the performance (it was nice to not be on the hook personally for all those tickets). The theater itself is located in kind of a busy area, so make sure your bus driver knows to drop you off on Pearson (one way going east) because there's NO stopping on Michigan Ave. This intersection is pretty busy, so be wary if you have younger kids that they need to be corralled on the sidewalk before entering. Upon entering, there's a cool view of the old Water Tower and its working parts if you have time to stop and take a look around. There's enough signage to explain what's going on. There's pop, snacks, etc. for sale outside the theater and the items are allowed inside which was perfect for my students. It looks like there were alcoholic beverages, if you're so inclined. The theater space itself is cool because it looks like just a giant open warehouse that is changed, built up/down, or reconfigured for each performance. There was a lot of catwalk area that afforded more movement on the stage area that made the version of "The Little Prince" that we were seeing pretty cool. The seats were comfortable and, thankfully, we were seated on the right side so our aisles were only like 5 seats across instead of 10+ (that way we didn't have to disturb strangers with bathroom trips). All in all, a great experience for teachers taking a group of kids to a performance. My only issue: the price is pretty high for a matinee performance. Since I worked at a school with primarily low-income students, the discounted student/group price was still prohibitive for about 15% of my students. I'd like to see some better discounts for CPS students, especially in those schools that can show they primarily serve low-income students. Otherwise, great venue and I look forward to an opportunity to see a performance here again. read more

I have wanted to check out Lookingglass Theatre for a long time, but for some reason I never have. Last night Johnny T. hooked a bunch of Yelpers up with some free tickets to see The Last Act of Lilka Kadison and I was surprisingly impressed. The theater itself is pretty cool. It's located inside the Water Tower Water Works building and to get to the theater you have to walk past all of the pipes and inner workings of the only public building to survive in the burn zone of the great Chicago fire. My inner architecture nerd squealed with delight. The theater is large, yet intimate. We were seated in the back of the theater but were still able see all of the action very clearly. The actors were amazing. Seriously, they can throw down! Each performance was organic and heartfelt with impeccable timing. I liked this play. There were a couple of plot points that didn't make sense and should have been a bit more developed, but overall it was enjoyable and I would definitely go back to see another show at Lookingglass. read more

I recently went to see Lookingglass Alice. I know what you're thinking: "Hey Beth D., didn't you play Alice in the local community theater production of "Alice in Wonderland" when you were 11?" Why, yes, that's true. But I never get tired of the story, so when the opportunity arose to see this unique production, I was all in. I didn't research the production or theater beforehand, so I really was a blank slate as we walked in and took our seats in what seemed like a very small theater. To my right was a very small theatergoer in a darling ensemble complete with purse and tiara. I felt under-dressed. The show itself was interesting at times - the physicality and pure energy were impressive, for sure. However, I waited for the plot to grab me, or for the characters to evolve into something big and spectacular. The Red Queen came close (and was both big and spectacular) and the White Queen reappeared cleverly over the course of the show, but I didn't find myself engaged by Alice. There were also some moments of audience participation, which is not my all-time favorite thing in the world. Just a personal note. Overall, the production was a spectacle and the visual and physical elements sold the show. The tiny cast of five go through a marathon workout but seemed totally in control. The use of the stage-space, props and sound were all inventive. I'd like to see another production some time when I'm in the mood for something imaginative and brisk. read more

My 6 year old daughter loved the play at the Looking Glass theater and wanted to share her review with other young spectators: Over Thanksgiving break I saw the performance"the Steadfast Tin soldier'' at Looking glass theater.one reason why I liked it is because it was my first performance in an adult's theater.The performance was also funny. For example, the rat, the ballerina,maid, and fisherman made everyone laugh. I liked that there were no words. Then babies could understand the story from the actors' body language. Lastly, the play had a good message. It is that if things don't go your way, don't give up and try to be happy. I liked the play "The Steadfast Tin Solder"! I give it five stars. read more

I just saw the world premiere for "Black Diamond" at thie Lookingglass this past weekend, which was intriguing and absolutely great. I liked the way the theatre was set up (I cannot offer specific terms, but the play was in the middle of seating on three sides). I did not realize that the water treatment plant was in the same building, and I always wondered what was housed in the "castle looking buildings" on Michigan Ave. Though I had a pretty bad view, I greatly appreciated the set up and the decor. It actually reminded me of an unfinished cinder block basement. I am not much of a theatre person quite honestly, but I would definitely go see another show here. And I highly suggest "Black Diamond" as well! read more

Just saw The Last Act of Lilka Kadison and were blown away. Great theater in a great location. My wife and I just like the whole package - the facility, where it is located and the really excellent productions they do here. This was our third play of three for our subscription and we renewed. The plays here are always artistic, entertaining and different. Highly recommend you catch a performance here. read more

What a unique theatre exp[erience to have in Chicago! My 6-year-old daughter and I just saw Hephaestus with my best friend and it was wonderful. The risks that they take are very impressive and the acrobatics are well-integrated into the play. I cannot stand when there are extraneous elements in some unconventional theatre productions. Lookingglass never does this. Every musical or dance element enhances and propels the narrative. My daughter and I also saw Lookingglass Alice last summer. I preferred that production to the Hephaestus show that we saw for two reasons (although it was a close call): 1) Hephaestus was in its extension and I think there were a few 'near accidents' maybe due to fatigue...2) Lookingglass Alice presented a richer narrative experience than the production of Hephaestus. I cannot wait to go to the next Lookingglass production! Around the World in 80 days should be great! read more

I got a free ticket to see The Last Act of Lilka Kadison courtesy of Yelp and had a fun time. It's been so long since I have been to a play, so I jumped at this opportunity. I have come straight from work from the suburbs and had my work computer with me, which I didn't want with me while watching the play. The stage manager was kind enough to put in the coat room. The play itself was fantastic - acting, the sets, and storyline. It was a mix of drama and comedy. I have heard of the Lookingglass before because of David Schwimmer from Friends is one of the co-founders and since I was a big fan of the tv show, I have been meaning to check this place out. Definitely plan to check out another play here when the new season starts. read more

Easily one of the better places to see a show in Chicago. In the last year or so I've seen Icarus and Peter Pan there and absolutely loved them both. The casts and performers hows have been absolutely wonderful. What I love most about the Looking Glass as a venue is that its a very intimate and casual theater. Its all about the show and not the surrounding stuffiness. Don't get me wrong, I love the traditional play venues, neon signs, people dressed up and the surrounding formality. I just love coming to a place like Looking Glass a nice change of pace. Its like watching a bunch of great performers in their playroom. read more

The Lookingglass had to grow on me until I got their concept: their season tends to include more locally written works based on Chicago themes. It was under my radar for a while because I didn't really know what they were doing. However over the last 2 years I have been to several productions and have a good feel for the niche they are filling, which is unique in Chicago. The plays are eclectic and different from the usual and the acting is consistently solid. This is a great company to take a "gamble" on--not many similar companies trying to do things are this consistently good. Their recent productions of Still Alice and Benghal TIger at the Baghdad Zoo are some of the best things I have seen this year (2013). read more

I lucked out and got front and center seats for my best friends birthday gift. He mentioned how much he loved the story of Alice in Wonderland and "Alice" has come back home to the Lookingglass. It was my first time at this theatre and the experience was breathtaking. There was drama, there was comedy and there was acrobats. It's one thing to act (and act well) but it's another to act while swinging on ropes, flipping through hoops and tumbling to a beat. The show was amazing and I can't wait to see what else they have in store. read more

Went to see Peter Pan with two girlfriends; we were all kinda lukewarm on the experience. First we had issues finding out seats - signs written in pen do not work in a large space; please use markers in the future. Then it was a bit awkward when the actors came out; I mean, they were good actors, but having folks in their 20's and 30's play little kids is, well, kinda creepy. But I guess it comes with the territory. I was pretty impressed with what they had to do to make the characters fly with such limited resources, and they were pretty creative with their use of ropes and scaffolding. The major bad point, though, was the position of our seats. They really shouldn't have sold two out of our three seats - they were right up against the "curtain" (heavy plastic), and one of the major "ta-da!" moments was lost on us because our view was completely obstructed by the plastic. Oh, and the seats were not so comfortable after the one-hour mark. read more

I've walked pass this building so many times and never knew what it actually was. Clearly, I have been remiss because the Lookingglass Theatre is an adorable, perfectly intimate venue that puts on quality shows. The theater is small enough that there is not a bad seat in the house. I went to see "In the Garden," and the cast and set were both amazing. There's also a bar where you can purchase a beverage or two and bring them into the theater with you! Awesome. As with most shows, the lines for the bathroom can get a little annoying during intermission. I guess there's nothing you can really do about that. read more

We bought our tickets ahead of time. We saw the play treasure island. The acting was very good. The theater was way smaller than I've ever been in. This made every seat perfect view. The stage set up was amazing... Like the curved floorboard of a ship. They totally used it to full advantage of the play. All this on my first trip to Chicago! No problem getting there on CTA. Bus service is front door service! Well, almost! And no parking worries with the bus! Check out this theater when in Chicago. read more

Lookingglass Theatre Company is doing some of the most interesting, challenging and COOL theatre in Chicago. They are not inaccessible if you are not a theatre person. Lookingglass seems to start with a point, a message or a feeling they are attempting to get across and takes it from there. In the past year I have been Arabian Nights and Icarus and was blown away by both. Make sure you add Lookingglass Theatre to your list of must see Chicago theatre companies. read more

Maybe yelpers aren't theater-goers, but I'm surprised to see only a few reviews for one of Chicago's more inventive companies. I have been a subscriber for the last few years, and while not every play works for me, overall they put on a great show. On stage right now, I definitely recommend Wooden Breeks. In spite of the not-so-great Scottish accents, the play is compelling and fun. The young actor is outstanding and a bit of a scene stealer. !Watch for "Alice" to return to Lookingglass this summer 2007 - a must see for anyone, even if you're not a theater regular. read more

PERFECT SCORE!!! You bet your sweet bottom they deserve it. These kids work HARD for the money (and applause), and looking at the ever-growing list of patrons, boy do they EVER collect BOTH! I have seen "Around the World in 80 Days" and "Alice" here. Words could never do either justice. Let me try this approach: do you remember that all-consuming feeling of pure joy and appreciation that would come over you as a child when you would go to the circus/movies/Disney World? (If you don't, you SERIOUSLY need to invest in season tickets here and RECHARGE your Wonder&Awe. GET ON IT.) Inventiveness. Courage. Integrity. Craft. All the things actors/directors were required to have before silicone and digital moviemaking hit the scene. There are no stunt doubles here, but there are hella lot of stunts to make you clap your hands off. There is creative use of space in a theatre that epitomizes the phrase "location, location, location." (Really, you simply won't believe what they do here. MINDBLOWING without all the damn pyrotechnic-sellout stuff they are peddling on State Street every night) Recapture the magic. Get your tickets TODAY! read more

Lookingglass Theatre is truly a gem in the middle of downtown Chicago. You have probably walked past this theatre a hundred times and never even knew it. In fact, a friend of mine who lives just up the block never knew it was there! How is that possible? Nonetheless, Lookingglass is situated inside the Water Tower Pumping Station, right at the corner of Michigan & Pearson, next to Water Tower Place. They call it the theatre in the castle, because that's what the building looks like. It's a "black box" space that they use to suit the needs of each particular show. I have seen about 7 different productions here over the years, and have never been disappointed. One of the coolest things about their shows is that they work acrobatics and aerial work into almost all of them. It's always integrated into the story in a very clever way, and it's quite unique. Their music is also always very good. The quality of this little theatre's work is astounding. Acting, production values, physical abilities, music. It's all there. Plus, it's not super expensive, and your seats are always good. They usually have only a few rows of seats, the audience size is not large, so it's very intimate. I highly highly recommend a visit to Lookingglass. Their "Alice" is one of the best things I have ever seen. read more