Chicago Sports

Pitching coach Ethan Katz knows one thing for sure.

The White Sox need help in the starting rotation.

Veteran Johnny Cueto, who saved the rotation after signing a minor league deal, is a free agent and will probably get a multiyear contract elsewhere, the size of which the Sox might be unwilling to invest.

Michael Kopech is rehabbing his knee after surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee, and while he is expected to be ready for spring training without restrictions and is already mapped out for five innings and 85 pitches in his final start of spring training, his progression “is a little slower than we originally thought,” Katz said, and he is something of a small question mark nonetheless until proven to be 100 percent.

And Lucas Giolito will be in bounce-back mode after retreating in 2022. Next season could be his last with the Sox as he enters free agency following 2023.

“Obviously we need another starter,” Katz said on a conference call Thursday. “That right now is our biggest need from the pitching standpoint. We’re having dialogue. We’ll see how things play out, but we do need another starter.”

Kopech is rehabbing in Texas.

“The whole reason for the surgery was to kind of fix that and get his leg right for this next year,” Katz said.

“He’s doing well and we expect him to have a normal offseason here shortly.”

Katz said Giolito was frustrated with his performance (4.90 ERA over 30 starts after posting ERAs of 3.53 or lower in each of the previous three seasons) and is motivated to return to form.

“He’s working hard currently as we speak,” Katz said. “We have a really nice idea of where he needs to go from here and what his offseason should look like.

“He wants to fix things right away.”

Left-hander Garrett Crochet, who missed last season due to Tommy John surgery, wants to be a starter but “starting is not in the cards” this season, Katz said.

“Obviously the rehab process is still ongoing,” Katz said. “He’s [throwing] at 120 feet. It’s feeling good. He’s progressing nicely and I think it’s just a matter of how he keeps progressing.

“He’s very important to what we do in the big leagues and whatever role that is, that’s to be determined. Right now, he needs to get through his rehab and that’s going well. He should be an impact in some sort of way next year.

“In the bullpen you have a better opportunity to manage him a little more.”

Katz also reiterated what GM Rick Hahn said at the general managers meetings that Reynaldo Lopez, who posted a 2.76 ERA in relief in 2022, is pegged for the bullpen.

“He really loves the role he’s in, being a lockdown guy in the bullpen,” Katz said. “He really thrived at that, I think he really enjoys that.”

Whether that means closer Liam Hendriks is being discussed in trade talks remains to be seen and is something to watch this offseason.

Katz’ and Cueto’s relationship goes back to their days together with the Giants. Katz wasn’t shutting the door on Cueto returning, but that is standard operating procedure. Cueto, 8-10 with a 3.35 ERA in 25 games, will be 37 next season.

“We’ve had conversations about bringing him back that’s for sure,” Katz said. “I know Johnny really enjoyed his time here. I have a relationship with Johnny, I like Johnny a lot. So I think free agency has to take its course and have to see where, how it plays out. I don’t get into the numbers and that kind of stuff so, obviously I would love to have him back. He would love to be back from our conversations.”

Dylan Cease, second in Cy Young voting to Justin Verlander, and two-time All-Star Lance Lynn figure to be 1-2 in the rotation. Those are the only certainties heading into next season as the Sox, under new manager Pedro Grifol, aim to bounce back from a disappointing 81-81 season.

Read More

Jingle all the way to these concerts in and around Chicago! Whether you’re already cranking up the Christmas music or prefer non-holiday jams, local clubs and theaters have plenty to offer for concertgoers this holiday season.

Heritage Jazz Orchestra: Ella Fitzgerald at the Apollo, Nov. 22. Hey Nonny, 10 S. Vail Ave., Arlington Heights. $12-$40; heynonny.com.

Peppermint with Jujubee and OneUpDuo, Nov. 23. Evanston SPACE, 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston. $25-$45; evanstonspace.com.

Louis the Child with Lupe Fiasco, Levity, What So Not and Nez, Nov. 25-26. Radius Chicago, 640 W. Cermak Rd. $45-$50; radius-chicago.com.

Millennium Park Holiday Sing-Along: Nov. 25-Dec. 16. Millennium Park, Cloud Gate, 201 E. Randolph St. Free; millenniumpark.org.

Windborne’s The Music of Queen performed by the Chicago Philharmonic, Nov. 25. Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Ida B Wells Dr. $28-$128; auditoriumtheatre.org.

Skegss withSir Chloe and Adam Newling, Nov. 27. Metro, 3730 N. Clark St. $22+; metrochicago.com.

Another Johnnyswim Christmas Show, Nov. 30. Fourth Presbyterian Church, 126 E. Chestnut St. $50-$65; johnnyswim.com.

Pentatonix: A Christmas Spectacular with Girl Named Tom, Dec. 1. Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. $40-$395; allstatearena.com.

Foals with Inner Wave and Glove,Dec. 2-3. The Vic Theatre, 3145 N. Sheffield Ave. $35-$95; jamusa.com.

St. Charles Singers: “Candlelight Carols,” Dec. 2 at St. Michael Catholic Church, 310 S. Wheaton Ave., Wheaton. Dec. 3 at Fourth Presbyterian Church, 126 E. Chestnut St. Dec. 4 at Baker Memorial United Methodist Church, 307 Cedar Ave., St. Charles. $10-$40; stcharlessingers.com.

An Evening with The English Beat, Dec. 3-4. City Winery Chicago, 1200 W. Randolph St. $50-$70; citywinery.com.

Rainbow Kitten Surprise, Dec. 3. Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom, 1106 W. Lawrence. $120-$362; aragonballroom.org.

Too Hot To Handel: The Jazz-Gospel Messiah, Dec. 3-4. Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Ida B Wells Dr. $35-$75; auditoriumtheatre.org.

Itzhak Perlman: In the Fiddler’s House, Dec. 4. Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. $49-$325; cso.org.

103.5 Kiss FM’s Jingle Ball with Jack Harlow, Pitbull, Khalid, Macklemore, Lauv, Tate McRae, Ava Max, Jax and Nicky Youre, Dec. 5. Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. $35-$125; allstatearena.com.

Q101’s Twisted Xmas with Portugal. The Man, Jack White, The 1975, Bob Moses, Beach Bunny, Wet Leg and Starcrawler, Dec. 6-9. Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom, 1106 W. Lawrence. $51.50-$70;q101.com.

Blind Boys of Alabama Christmas Show, Dec. 7. City Winery Chicago, 1200 W. Randolph St. $45-$68; citywinery.com.

Christmas with Amy Grant & Michael W. Smith with Michael Tait, Dec. 7. Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N. River Rd., Rosemont. $39.50-$125; rosemonttheatre.com.

Dave Koz and Friends 25th Anniversary Christmas Tour with Rick Braun, Peter White, Keiko Matsui and Rebecca Jade, Dec. 8. The Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St. $35.50-$378.50; chicagotheatre.com.

Modest Mouse, Dec. 9. Riviera Theatre, 4746 N. Racine Ave. $45-$225; rivieratheatre.com.

Dominic Fike, Dec. 10. Radius Chicago, 640 W. Cermak Rd. $47-$172; radius-chicago.com.

Mr. Dave’s 6th Annual Holiday Jamboree, Dec. 10. Lincoln Hall, 2424 N. Lincoln Ave. $16; lh-st.com.

Celtic Woman: A Christmas Symphony, Dec. 11. Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Ida B Wells Dr. $47-$158; auditoriumtheatre.org.

Phony Ppl, Dec. 11. Lincoln Hall, 2424 N. Lincoln Ave. $25; lh-st.com.

The Chris White Trio Tribute to “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” Dec. 11. Caf? Brauer at Lincoln Park Zoo, 2021 N. Stockton Dr. $35, includes complimentary beverage; lpzoo.org.

The Hot Sardines, Dec. 11. Old Town School of Folk Music, Szold Hall, 4545 N. Lincoln Ave. $36-$38; oldtownschool.org.

A Day to Remember, Dec. 12. The Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St. $44.50-$332; chicagotheatre.com.

Daddy Yankee, Dec. 12-13. Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. $85-$1,938; allstatearena.com.

Los Lobos, Dec. 12-13. City Winery Chicago, 1200 W. Randolph St. $65-$82; citywinery.com.

Someday at Christmas: John-Mark McGaha Sings Stevie Wonder, Dec. 12-13. Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Dr., Lincolnshire. $55; marriotttheatre.com.

Brett Eldredge’s Glow LIVE Holiday Tour, Dec. 15-16. The Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St. $77-$715; chicagotheatre.com.

Elizabeth Moen with Michael Damani, Dec. 16. Schubas Tavern, 3159 N. Southport Ave. $15; lh-st.com.

Mariachi Herencia de Mexico: A Very Merry Christmas Concert, Dec. 16-17. Old Town School of Folk Music, Maurer Hall, 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. $33-$35; oldtownschool.org.

Merry, Merry Chicago! with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Chicago Symphony Chorus, Dec. 16-23. Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave. $45-$375; cso.org.

A Boy Band Christmas withJeff Timmons, Drew Lachey, Justin Jeffre, Jamie Jones, Erik-Michael Estrada and Ryan Cabrera, Dec. 18. Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana’s Hard Rock Live, 5400 W. 29th Ave., Gary. $34.50-$185; hardrockcasinonorthernindiana.com.

‘Tis the Season with The Beach Boys featuring The Holiday Vibrations Orchestra, Dec. 18. The Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St. $83.50-$618.50; chicagotheatre.com.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra — The Ghosts of Christmas Eve, Dec. 21. Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Rd., Rosemont. $49.50-$276; allstatearena.com.

Straight No Chaser, Dec. 23. The Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St. $25-$367; chicagotheatre.com.

Guided by Voices, Dec. 27-31. Evanston SPACE, 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston. $45-$65; evanstonspace.com.

The Disco Biscuits, Dec. 29-31. Riviera Theatre, 4746 N. Racine Ave. $41-$60.50; rivieratheatre.com.

Read More

Bears quarterback Justin Fields has emerged as one of the NFL’s most popular players over the past month. Look no further than the trading card world, where the Bears quarterback’s rookie card sold at auction for $90,000 on Thursday night.

The card was a Black Finite Prizms card from 2021, graded 8.5 by Beckett. It was 1-of-1. The auction closed at 9 p.m. Thursday.

The sale took place in PWCC’s November Premier Auction and marked the most money ever paid for a Fields card. Per PWCC, his previous high was $19,525, set in May.

Fields has emerged as a rushing star this season. His 555 rushing yards over the Bears’ past five games are the most in NFL history by a quarterback in a five-game span.

Fields and the 3-7 Bears are playing at the Falcons on Sunday, near the quarterback’s hometown of Kennesaw, Ga.

Read More

Class 8A: No. 2 Loyola at No. 4 York, 1 p.m. Saturday

Loyola (11-1) has lost lead back Will Nimesheim to a knee injury but still has one of the state’s premier quarterbacks in Holy Cross recruit Jake Stearney (2,347 total yards, 36 touchdowns) and a deep receiving corps. Michigan-bound defensive end Brooks Bahr leads the defense for the Ramblers, who are seeking their first trip to state since 2018. York (12-0), in the semifinals for the second time in program history, has never played for a state title. But coach Mike Fitzgerald has taken the Dukes to the top of the rugged West Suburban Silver and beyond. York also has a savvy senior quarterback in Matt Vezza, a capable group of pass catchers and a proven senior back in Kelly Watson.

8A: No. 5 Glenbard West at No. 3 Lincoln-Way East, 1 p.m. Saturday

After four straight second-round playoff exits, Glenbard West (11-1) came into this season with a mission and a motto: Return to Glory. The Hilltoppers have done that by relying on a familiar formula, with dependable backs Julius Ellens and Joey Pope running behind a big, experienced offensive line anchored by Wisconsin-bound tackle Chris Terek. Lincoln-Way East (12-0) likely will be on alert for onside kicks after the Hilltoppers successfully pulled off a couple in last week’s 37-34 win over Maine South. The Griffins have an added dimension this season with a more prominent passing game led by quarterback Braden Tischer and receiver Jimmy Curtin. Jake Scianna and Caden O’Rourke lead a defense that has rarely been tested.

Class 7A: No. 1 Mount Carmel at No. 6 St. Rita, 4 p.m. Saturday

It’s the second meeting of the season for the South Side archrivals. Mount Carmel (12-0) won 35-3 in the season opener, and St. Rita’s only other loss was 34-14 to Loyola in Week 3. The Caravan have looked every bit the best team in the area with an offense that’s been rolling along behind senior quarterback Blainey Dowling, who has been especially good in big games. Last week against Brother Rice, he threw for five touchdowns. The Mustangs (10-2) are one win away from sending retiring coach Todd Kuska to state for the third straight postseason (the playoffs were canceled because of the pandemic two years ago). Keep an eye on St. Rita’s special teams: kicker Conor Talty is an Alabama recruit and the Mustangs blocked three kicks last week against St. Charles North.

7A: No. 9 Batavia at No, 10 Lake Zurich, 4 p.m. Saturday

Batavia’s two Power Five linebacker recruits, Tyler Jansey (Wisconsin) and Jack Sadowsky (Iowa State), also made their presence felt on special teams by blocking kicks in last week’s win over Yorkville. And Charlie Whelpley showed some impressive versatility with his punting, running and halfback option pass. The Bulldogs are in the semifinals for the fifth time since 2011 and are seeking their third trip to state since 2013. Lake Zurich (11-1) has won 10 straight since losing to St. Charles North and has held 10 opponents to 10 points or fewer. Ron Planz is the fourth coach to lead the Bears to the semifinals since 2011.

Class 6A: No. 21 St. Ignatius at No. 8 Prairie Ridge, 2 p.m. Saturday

Prairie Ridge quarterback Tyler Vasey broke the IHSA single-season rushing record last week when he ran for a remarkable 481 yards and eight touchdowns against Harlem, pushing his season totals to 3,609 yards and 50 TDs. And he’s not the only 1,000-yard rusher for the Wolves (11-1): fullback Nathan Greetham has 1,332 yards and 14 touchdowns. St. Ignatius (10-2), which hadn’t won an IHSA playoff game till last season, is in its first semifinal. The Wolfpack has the state’s top junior prospect, two-way lineman Justin Scott, and program career rushing leader Vinny Rugai, who has run for 485 yards and 10 TDs in three playoff games.

Read More

Guards

Player, team, height, year

Niko Abusara, Benet, 6-4, Sr.

Darrin Ames, Kenwood, 6-0, Sr.

Richard Barron, St. Ignatius, 6-5, Sr.

Melvin Bell, St. Rita, 6-3, So.

Matas Castillo, Lemont, 6-0, Sr.

Rokas Castillo, Lemont, 6-0, Sr.

Cameron Christie, Rolling Meadows, 6-6, Sr.

Ryan Cohen, Glenbrook North, 6-3, Sr.

Jakeem Cole, Perspectives-Leadership, 6-1, Sr.

Mekhi Cooper, Bolingbrook, 6-0, Sr.

DeAndre Craig, Mount Carmel, 6-1, Sr.

Dalen Davis, Young, 5-11, Sr.

Jeremiah Fears, Joliet West, 6-1, So.

Jeremy Fears, Jr., Joliet West, 6-1, Sr.

Jake Fiegen, New Trier, 6-3, Sr.

Isaiah Green, Kenwood, 6-0, Jr.

Jalen Griffith, Simeon, 5-11, Sr.

Carlos Harris, Curie, 6-2, Jr.

Ahmad Henderson, Brother Rice, 5-9, Sr.

Nojus Indrusaitis, St. Rita, 6-6, Jr.

Cooper LePage, Crystal Lake South, 6-1, Sr.

Sam Lewis, Simeon, 6-5, Sr.

Josh Pickett, West Aurora, 6-4, Jr.

Marcus Pigram, Young, 6-3, Sr.

Vincent Rainey, Thornton, 5-11, Sr.

Shaheed Solebo, Young, 6-4, Jr.

Kaiden Space, Simeon, 6-1, Sr.

James Stevenson Jr., Momence, 6-6, Sr.

Asa Thomas, Lake Forest, 6-6 Sr.

Forwards

Angelo Ciaravino, Mount Carmel, 6-5, Jr.

Jeremy Harrington, Curie, 6-5, Sr.

Daniel Johnson, Young, 6-6, Sr.

Morez Johnson, St. Rita, 6-9, Jr.

Quentin Jones, Marian Catholic, 6-5, Sr.

Jackson Kotecki, St. Ignatius, 6-8, Sr.

Mekhi Lowery, Oswego East, 6-6, Sr.

Antonio Munoz, Young, 6-4, Sr.

Chikasi Ofoma, Curie, 6-6, Sr.

Niklas Polonowski, Lyons, 6-6, Sr.

Chris Riddle, Kenwood, 6-5, Jr.

Calvin Robins, Kenwood, 6-5, Jr.

Drew Scharnowski, Burlington Central, 6-8, Sr.

Centers

Prince Adams, Evanston, 6-7, Sr.

Darrion Baker, Hillcrest, 6-9, Sr.

James Brown, St. Rita, 6-9, Jr.

Evan Jackson, De La Salle, 6-7, Sr.

Mark Nikolich-Wilson, Rolling Meadows, 6-7, Sr.

Chikasi Ofoma, Curie, 6-6, Sr.

Miles Rubin, Simeon, 6-9, Sr.

Wes Rubin, Simeon, 6-9, Sr.

Read More

Holiday cheer and more can be found on stage this season at theater across the area.

Offerings include annual favorites (from Charles Dickens, Irving Berlin and Frank Capra), a visit with a grown-up friend of the Grinch, a new tale of Santa’s son, stories about elves and tin soldiers, holiday-themed improv, plenty of new and classic treats from Broadway in Chicago (“The Twenty-Sided Tavern,” “The Lion King”), and some not-so-holiday-themed productions (“The Sound of Music,” “Little Women”).

Enjoy!

“A Christmas Carol”

Larry Yando returns as Ebenezer Scrooge in the annual staging of Charles Dickens classic holiday story; directed by Jessica Thebus. Nov. 19-Dec. 31. Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn, $25+; goodmantheatre.org

“A Christmas Carol in the Dark”: Theater in the Dark’s audio play tells the classic story through voice, music, recorded sound and foley effects; directed by Mack Gordon. Streams to Jan. 1, $15; atheaterinthedark.com

A one-hour version of Dickens classic story suitable for the entire family. Nov. 25-Dec. 30. Drury Lane Theatre for Young Audiences, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace, $26+; drurylanetheatre.com

William J. Norris’ 70-minute adaptation of Dickens holiday classic features a cast of 50 local actors and children. Nov. 25-27. McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell, Glen Ellyn, $14, $16; atthemac.org

“Manual Cinema’s Christmas Carol”: The performance collective’s imaginative adaptation updates the holiday tale as Aunt Trudy, an avowed holiday skeptic, is recruited to channel her late husband’s famous Christmas cheer. Nov. 29-Dec. 24. Writers Theatre, 325 Tudor, Glencoe, $35-$90; writerstheatre.org

Krista Scott’s adaptation of Dickens’ classic holiday story; directed by Robin M. Hughes. Dec. 1-24 at Metropolis Performing Arts Center, 111 W. Campbell, $35; metropolisarts.com

Also On Stage

“Measure for Measure”: Shakespeare’s searing examination of political corruption and social injustice is set against the turbulence of 1959 Cuba as Fidel Castro seizes power.; directed by Henry Godinez. To Nov. 27. Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E. Grand, $49-$92; chicagoshakes.com

“Blue Heaven”: Four blues legends — Big Momma Thornton, Howlin’ Wolf, Muddy Waters and Stevie Ray Vaughan — reminisce about the ups and downs of their careers while waiting for the “new guy” — B.B. King — to show up; written and directed by Daryl Brooks. To Nov. 27. Black Ensemble Theater, 4450 N. Clark, $55; blackensembletheater.org

“Luminaire” Cabaret ZaZou presents a new, immersive variety dinner show filled with cirque acts, interactive comedy and vocalists. Ongoing. Cabaret ZaZou, Cambria Hotel, 32 W. Randolph, $75 show only, $125+ dinner and show; cabaretzazou.com

“Rent”: Jonathan Larson’s classic musical about a group of friends struggling to survive and create in Manhattan’s East Village under the shadow of HIV/AIDS. To Nov. 27. Porchlight Music Theatre at Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn, $25+; porchlightmusictheatre.org

“The Island”: Athol Fugard, John Kani and Winston Nthsona’s drama about two South African political prisoners who toil by day in a prison quarry and secretly spend their evenings rehearsing a two-man version of “Antigone”; directed by Gabrielle Randle-Bent. To Dec. 4. Court Theatre, 5535 S. Ellis, $40.50-$82; courttheatre.org

“Jeeves Intervenes”: Margaret Raether’s adaptation of the P.G. Wodehouse story finds the marriage-averse Bertie desperately trying to avoid his ferocious Aunt Agatha with the help of his highly competent valet Jeeves; directed by Michael Goldberg. To Dec. 4. First Folio Theatre at Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 31st, Oak Brook, $49, $59; firstfolio.org

“The Mark of Kane”: In Mark Pracht’s drama, it’s 1939 and two friends huddle in a Bronx apartment to create a legendary comic-book hero — Batman; directed by Terry McCabe. To Dec. 4. City Lit Theater, 1020 W. Bryn Mawr, $34; citylit.org

“Our Dear Dead Drug Lord”: In Alexis Scheer’s play, four teenage girls navigating adolescence gather in an abandoned treehouse armed with a Ouija board and call to order a meeting of the Dead Leaders Club; directed by Sophiyaa Nayer. To Dec. 10. Steep Theatre, 1044 W. Berwyn, $30, $40; steeptheatre.com

“Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”: Stephen Sondheim’s macabre masterpiece about an unjustly exiled barber who returns to 19th century London seeking revenge. Directed by Derek Van Barham. Nine performances added Dec. 2-18. Kokandy Productions at Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division, $40; kokandyproductions.com.

“Malapert Love”: Siah Berlatsky’s gender-bending romantic comedy follows a group of people who have all fallen in love with the wrong person; directed by Julian Hester. To Dec. 11. The Artistic Home at The Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee, $35; thedentheatre.com

“A Mile in the Dark”: Interrobang Theatre and Rivendell Theatre present Emily Schwend’s drama about a daughter searching for answers after her mother’s death; directed by Georgette Verdin. To Dec. 11. Rivendell Theatre, 5779 N. Ridge, $35; rivendelltheatre.org

“Dooby Dooby Moo”: James R. Grote’s adaptation of Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin’s children’s book about a group of farm animals who join a talent contest with hopes of winning a trampoline; directed by Heather Currie. To Dec. 11. Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood, $20; lifelinetheatre.com

“Mosque4Mosque”: Omer Abbas Salem’s new comedy about a queer Arab American Muslim man navigating his first real relationship while his immigrant mother tries to find the perfect man for him to marry; directed by Sophiyaa Nayar. To Dec. 17. The Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee, pay-what-you-can $5-$35; aboutfacetheatre.com

“Trouble in Mind”: Alice Childress’ drama about a group of actors in the mid-1950s gathered to rehearse a new anti-lynching Southern drama; directed by Ron OJ Parson. To Dec. 18. TimeLine Theatre, 615 W. Wellington, $42-$57; timelinetheatre.com

“Season’s Greetings”: Buffalo Theatre Ensemble presents Alan Ayckbourn’s comedy about the anxiety and high jinks of an average family during the holidays; directed by Connie Canaday Howard. To Dec. 18. McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell, Glen Ellyn, $42; btechicago.com

“It Runs in the Family”: Ray Cooney’s farce is set in a hospital three days before Christmas as a doctor tries to fend off an ex-wife, a punkish son and various other lunatics; directed by Pat Murphy. To Dec. 18. Citadel Theatre, 300 S. Waukegan, $40, $45; citadeltheatre.org

“A Christmas Story, the Musical”: The musical adaptation of the beloved movie about Ralphie Parker and his quest to get his dream Christmas gift; directed by Scott Weinstein. To Jan. 1. Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Dr., Lincolnshire, $59-$64; marriotttheatre.com

“Elf, the Musical”: The adaptation of the movie about Buddy, a human raised as an elf, who journeys from the North Pole to New York City in search of his birth father; directed by Lynne Kurdziel-Formato. To Jan. 8. Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace, $69-$84; drurylanetheatre.com

“The Steadfast Tin Soldier”: Mary Zimmerman’s adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s tale about a little soldier who never gives up; directed by Zimmerman. To Jan. 8, 2023. Lookingglass Theatre, Water Tower Water Works, 821 N. Michigan, $50+; lookingglasstheatre.org

“The Lion King”: Julie Taymor’s groundbreaking adaptation of the classic Disney movie. To Jan. 14, 2023. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph, $33+; broadwayinchicago.com

“The Sound of Music”: Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic musical about a governess and the family she falls in love with; directed by Amber Mak. To Jan. 15. Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena, Aurora, $28-$79; paramountaurora.com

“The Twenty-Sided Tavern”: A unique experience where tabletop roleplay games combine with live theatre to create an interactive adventure for participants; directed by Nik Whitcomb. To Jan. 15, 2023. Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut, $40-$65; broadwayinchicago.com

“The Best of The Second City Holidays”: More than 60 years of sketches with a holiday theme. To Dec. 31. The Second City, 230 W. North, $29+; secondcity.com

“What the Elf?”: An original sketch, variety and improv celebration of the season. To Jan. 1, 2023. The Second City, 230 W. North, $29+; secondcity.com

“Frank Ferrante’s Groucho”: The actor/comedian’s solo show celebrates the style and spirit of Groucho Marx through songs, stories and improvisation. Nov. 22. Cabaret ZaZou, Cambria Hotel, 32 W. Randolph, $45-$85; eveningwithgroucho.com

“It’s a Wonderful Life: Live in Chicago!”: American Blues Theater presents its annual radio-play adaptation of Frank Capra’s classic film; directed by Gwendolyn Whiteside. Nov. 23-Dec. 23. Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division, $25-$65; americanbluestheater.com

“Georgiana & Kitty: Christmas at Pemberley”: The world premiere of the final play in Lauren Gunderson and Margot Melcon’s trilogy which imagines the continued stories of characters from Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice”; directed by Marti Lyons. Nov. 25-Dec. 24. Northlight Theatre, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie, $30-$89; northlight.org

“Title X”: Artemisia Theatre presents Julie Proudfoot’s new play in which eight radically different women share stories about their fight for autonomy over their own bodies; co-directed by Proudfoot and Willow James. Nov. 25-Dec. 18. Theater Wit, 1229 E. Belmont, $25-$40; theaterwit.org

“Who’s Holiday!”: The adult only comedy stars a booze-guzzling, cigarette smoking, grown-up Cindy Lou Who as she remembers the fateful night she met The Grinch and the turn her life took after that meeting; directed by Charles Pazdernik. Nov. 25-Dec. 30. Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont, $24-$50; theaterwit.org

“I Saw Mommy Kissing The Second City”: From the comedy troupe comes a new holiday revue filled with seasonal hilarity. Nov. 25-Dec. 23. Paramount Theatre’s Copley Theatre, 8 E. Galena, $38; paramountaurora.com

“Merry Christmas Darling — Heidi Kettenring Sings Karen Carpenter”: Musical theater artist Kettenring performs Carpenter’s classic tunes and holiday hits. Nov. 25-27. Venus Cabaret at Mercury Theater, 3745 N. Southport, $70; mercurytheaterchicago.com

“Christmas Bingo — It’s a Ho-Ho-Holy Night”: Vicki Quade’s holiday show unites two of the best things about being Catholic: Christmas and bingo. Nov. 25-Dec. 31. Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N. Lincoln, $35-$100; greenhousetheatre.org

“The Golden Girls — The Lost Episodes, The Obligatory Holiday Special”: Hell in a Handbag Productions presents new episodes celebrating the holidays with Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, Sophia and their wacky friends and relatives. Nov. 26-Dec. 30. Hoover Leppen Theater at Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted, $29-$48; handbagproductions.org

“Jack Off the Beanstalk”: Tom Whalley’s very adult holiday panto inspired by the fairy tale includes songs including favorites by Kelly Clarkson and Whitney Houston; directed by Bryan McCaffrey. Nov. 28-Dec. 18. Pride Arts Center, 4139 N. Broadway, $35; pridearts.org

“Bald Sisters”: The world premiere of Vichet Chum’s comedy follows two sisters as they settle the affairs of their late mother while also reconciling their family’s Cambodian heritage with its complicated American present; directed by Jesca Prudencio. Dec. 1, 2022-Jan. 15, 2023. Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted, $20+; steppenwolf.org

“Twelfth Night, or What You Will”: Midsommer Flight presents its seventh annual holiday staging of Shakespeare’s comedy. Dec. 1-18. Lincoln Park Conservatory, 2391 Stockton, pay-what-you-can (suggested donation $30); midsommerflight.com

“25 Years of Students’ Stories”: PlayMakers Laboratory celebrates 25 years of arts education in Chicago schools with a showcase of short plays inspired by students’ stories. Dec. 5. Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland, $25; playmakerslab.org

“Dear Evan Hansen”: The winner of six Tony Awards, including best musical, this is Steven Levenson, Benj Pasek and Justin Paul’s story of a teenage boy who is given the chance to be somebody else and finally fit in. Dec. 6-31. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph, $39+; broadwayinchicago.com

“A Magical Cirque Christmas”: Cirque artists immerse audiences in the spirit of the season via comedy, music and magic. Dec. 6-11. CIBC Theatre, 18 W. Monroe, $20-$80; broadwayinchicago.com

“The Christmas Schooner”: The holiday musical about the shipping captain who brought Christmas trees to homesick German American families in turn-of-the-century Chicago; directed by David G. Zak. Dec. 8-11. Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th, $40; thebeverlyartscenter.com

“‘Twas the Night Before Ameltide”: An immersive, high fantasy experience set in a tavern beneath the snowy foothills of Heightswatch, where people wait for the Mortal King to appear. Dec. 9, 2022-Jan. 29, 2023. Otherworld Theatre, 3914 N. Clark, $65; otherworldtheatre.org

“Jackie Taylor’s Joy to the World — A Holiday Celebration”: A musical tribute to the holidays. Dec. 10-11, 17-18. Black Ensemble Theater, 4450 N. Clark, $55; blackensembletheater.org

“Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins”: A stage adaptation of Eric Kimmel’s classic children’s book about a traveling troupe of actors who put on a show to save the holiday. Dec. 10-31. Strawdog Theatre at The Edge Off-Broadway Theater, 1133 W. Catalpa, free; strawdog.com

“Jingle Bell Ruckus:” The Second City serves up seasonal satire in this holiday revue. Dec. 10. McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell, Glen Ellyn, $30-$48; atthemac.org

“Someday at Christmas — John-Mark McGaha Sings Stevie Wonder”: The musical theater performer dives into Wonder’s songbook which includes holiday tunes. Dec. 12-13. Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Dr., Lincolnshire, $55; marriotttheatre.com

“White Christmas:” Music Theater Works presents the musical based on the holiday film with music by Irving Berlin. Dec. 15, 2022-Jan. 1, 2023. North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, $39-$106; musictheaterworks.com

“Realm of the Nutcracker King”: The immersive holiday fairytale steps into the enchanted realm of holiday magic via storytelling, character actors, puppetry and dancing. Dec. 16, 2022-Jan. 8, 2023. Otherworld Theatre, 3914 N. Clark, $45-$65; otherworldtheatre.org

“Little Women”: First Folio Theatre presents Heather Chrisler’s adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel of the trials, tribulations and triumphs of the March sisters; directed by Melanie Keller. Dec.17, 2022-Jan. 15, 2023. Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 31st, Oak Brook, $49, $59; firstfolio.org

“Jingle Bell Ruckus”: Nothing is off-limits when The Second City spoofs the holidays in this revue. Dec. 19-30. Metropolis Performing Arts Center, 111 W. Campbell, $35; metropolisarts.com

“Junior Claus”: Christopher Dimond and Michael Kooman’s musical about the only son of Santa and Mrs. Claus who is reluctant to take over the family business; directed by Gregg Dennhardt. Dec. 20-30. Citadel Theatre, 300 S. Waukegan, Lake Forest, $20; citadeltheatre.org

“Cirque Dreams Holidaze”: This dazzling family holiday spectacular is a musical infused with contemporary circus artistry. Dec. 22-24. Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Ida B. Wells, $45+; auditorium.org

Read More

Bluford Webber 38, Wayne City 29

Catlin (Salt Fork) 50, Donovan 13

Clark 47, Clemente 21

Cullom Tri-Point 40, Momence 21

Deerfield 76, Wheaton Warrenville South 40

Downers North 50, Bartlett 20

Dupo 53, Madison 20

Dwight 48, Flanagan-Cornell-Woodland (FCW) 36

Elgin 51, Earlville 47

Fieldcrest 50, Ottawa Marquette 24

Grayslake Central 46, Crystal Lake Central 38

Greenville 45, Triad 37

Hersey 58, Libertyville 32

Lewistown 40, Farmington 25

Mississippi Valley Christian 43, North County, Mo. 9

Peoria Notre Dame 54, Ottawa 28

Petersburg PORTA 43, Mt. Pulaski 31

Pontiac 59, East Peoria 47

Sandburg 63, Addison Trail 14

Tinley Park 43, Ridgewood 22

Tremont 50, Princeville 42

Waukegan 47, Willows 46

West Chicago 64, Indian Creek 19

Wheaton Academy 44, Yorkville Christian 28

Winnebago 55, Stockton 14

York 54, Prospect 41

Centralia Tournament

Teutopolis 44, Carterville 30

IMSA Tournament

West Chicago 48, Aurora Math-Science 20

Paris Tournament

Paris 35, Terre Haute North, Ind. 28

Read More