MUSIC THEATER WORKS
ANNOUNCES 2026 SEASON
Proudly Presented At The North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie
9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, Illinois 60077
JOIN US AS A MEMBER TODAY
Membership renewals are now available at the Music Theater Works Box Office at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie. To subscribe, call 847.673.6300. New Memberships are available starting Wednesday, Oct. 1.
CATS
Music and Lyrics by Andrew Lloyd Webber
Based on “Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats” by T.S. Eliot
Directed and Choreographed by Mandy Modic
Music Directed by Linda Madonia
Music Theater Works kicks off its 46th season with CATS, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s electrifying, Tony Award-winning musical. In this immersive production set in a larger-than-life British flat, audiences may join the magical and all encompassing world of the Jellicle cats as they gather for the annual Jellicle Ball, where one will be chosen for a new life. Through a series of dazzling musical numbers, each cat shares their story— from the mischievous Rum Tum Tugger, to the mysterious Macavity, and the once-glamorous Grizabella. Featuring unforgettable songs, breathtaking choreography, and a whimsical atmosphere, CATS is a celebration of life, community and the power of memory.
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RUN DATESMarch 5 – 29, 2026 |
LOCATIONNorth Theatre |
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WEST SIDE STORY
Book by Arthur Laurents
Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
Music by Leonard Bernstein
Directed by Sasha Gerritson
Assistant Directed by Gisella Milla
Choreographed by Clayton Cross and Isa Ramirez
Assistant Choreographed by Alex Villasenor
Music Directed by Linda Madonia
Spanish Translation by David Serrano
A timeless tale of love and rivalry, WEST SIDE STORY brings Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet to the streets of 1950s New York. Caught between the tensions of two warring gangs—the Jets and the Sharks—Tony and Maria find themselves drawn to each other despite the violence that surrounds them. Featuring iconic songs like “Tonight,” “America,” and “Somewhere,” WEST SIDE STORY remains one of the most powerful and enduring musicals of all time. All performances include Spanish supertitles
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RUN DATESAugust 13 – 30, 2026 |
LOCATIONThe George Van Dusen Theatre |
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JIMMY BUFFETT’S ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE
Book by Greg Garcia and Mike O’Malley
Music and Lyrics by Jimmy Buffett
Directed and Choreographed by Brenda Didier
Music Directed by Linda Madonia
Music Theater Works presents the first professional production of JIMMY BUFFET’S ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE in Chicago since its pre-Broadway run. Set sail for a tropical getaway with this feel-good musical packed with island vibes and beloved Buffett classics. This lighthearted romantic comedy follows Tully, a laid-back island singer, and Rachel, a career-focused tourist, as their worlds collide at a beachfront resort. With a story about adventure, self-discovery, and living life to the fullest, ESCAPE TO MARGARITAVILLE is the ultimate musical vacation for Parrot Heads and newcomers alike.
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RUN DATESOctober 8 – November 1, 2026 |
LOCATIONNorth Theatre |
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HAIRSPRAY
Directed by Keely Vasquez
Choreographed by Reneisha Jenkins
Music Directed by Linda Madonia
Starring “RuPaul’s Drag Race’s” and internationally recognized drag artist, performer, educator and advocate Mrs. Kasha Davis as “Edna Turnblad”
Full of heart and 1960s flair, HAIRSPRAY follows Tracy Turnblad, a big-dreaming teen who lands a spot on “The Corny Collins Show.” But when she sees injustice in Baltimore, she sets out to integrate the dance floor, proving one girl can make a difference. With infectious songs like “Good Morning Baltimore” and “You Can’t Stop the Beat,” this musical makes the perfect closer to Music Theater Work’s 46th season: it is a joyful celebration of acceptance, self-love, and standing up for what’s right.
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RUN DATESDecember 17, 2026 – January 3, 2027 |
LOCATIONThe George Van Dusen Theatre |
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REFUNDS/EXCHANGES
Once your order has been processed, no refunds will be accepted.Please make sure you’ve selected the proper event time and date.Free unlimited exchanges for all subscribers. A single ticket purchase may exchange their ticket for another performance of the same production for a fee of $8.If Music Theater Works cancels or postpones a show, customers may exchange to another performance of the same production (subject to availability) or receive a credit on their account, which they can use for any other production or subscription.