CHICAGO: Northlight Theatre has announced its 2021-22 season, which includes a musical, the world premiere of a play with music, a few local premieres, and the return of a show closed down by the pandemic last year.
“All of us at Northlight have been yearning to return to doing what we do best, joining all of you in our theatre to celebrate work that is entertaining, electrifying, and inclusive,” said artistic director BJ Jones in a statement. “I’ve spoken to so many patrons over the last year and was moved by their sentiments of concern for the wellbeing of our artists and Northlight. Their dedication to our theatre is validation of their loyalty and continued support. And we are so grateful to have emerged from this national crisis, with renewed artistic vigor and ambition. Our doors are opening to all, and we humbly welcome our audiences back!”
The season begins with Joanna Murray-Smith’s musical Songs for Nobodies (Sept. 23-Oct. 31), directed by Rob Lindley, with music direction by Andra Velis Simon, which is billed as a “tour-de-force performance” celebrating the iconic work of Judy Garland, Patsy Cline, Billie Holiday, Edith Piaf, and Maria Callas.
Next is the world premiere of Mr. Dickens’ Hat, a play with music by Michael Hollinger (Nov. 26, 2021-Jan. 2, 2022), directed by David Catlin, with music direction by Chuck Larkin. The play follows two bumbling thieves who attempt to steal the title item from a cozy Victorian antique shop, only to be foiled by a young woman.
Following is Fireflies by Donja R. Love (Jan. 20-Feb. 20, 2022), directed by Mikael Burke. The play follows the increasingly strained relationship between a charismatic Civil Rights-era reverend and his wife, who writes all his fiery speeches.
Last year’s production of Lynn Nottage’s Intimate Apparel, which barely got to open before all theatres shut down in March 2020, will return April 14-May 15, 2022, directed by Tasia A. Jones. This contemporary classic follows a Black seamstress in 1905 Manhattan and her attempts to build a life outside of her work.
The season will close with Ken Ludwig’s autobiographical Dear Jack, Dear Louise (July 7-Aug. 7, 2022), which traces his parents’ largely epistolary love story during World War II.
Founded in 1974, Northlight aspires to promote change of perspective and encourage compassion by exploring the depth of our humanity across a bold spectrum of theatrical experiences. The theatres has mounted over 220 productions, including more than 40 world premieres.
Creative credits for production photo: Intimate Apparel scenic design by Scott Penner, lighting design by Claire Chrzan, costume design by Raquel Adorno, sound design by Jeffrey Levin
