Northlight Theatre has announced its 2026–2027 season, marking a major milestone as the company launches its inaugural lineup in a brand-new home in downtown Evanston. The five-show season blends world premieres, historical drama, and celebrated contemporary works, continuing Northlight’s tradition of producing compelling, character-driven storytelling.
The season opens with a fast-paced reimagining of a classic comedy, followed by a romantic world premiere, a powerful civil rights drama, a critically acclaimed play rooted in Holocaust history, and a musical portrait of an iconic performer.
Leading off the season is The Front Page, adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher from the original by Ben Hecht and Charles MacArthur. Set in a bustling 1930s Chicago newsroom, the play follows ace reporter Hildy Johnson as she attempts to leave journalism behind—only to be pulled back in by her manipulative editor and a breaking story involving an escaped convict. Packed with sharp dialogue and rapid-fire humor, the production sets an energetic tone for the season.
The holiday slot brings the world premiere of All the World by Lauren M. Gunderson, a heartfelt and bittersweet exploration of love set backstage during the busiest time of the theatrical year. As two actors navigate their shifting relationship while performing seasonal classics, the play examines the intersection of art and personal life with warmth, humor, and emotional depth.
In early 2027, Northlight presents The American Five by Chess Jakobs, a powerful historical drama centered on the collaboration behind Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech. The play highlights the relationships between King, Coretta Scott King, Bayard Rustin, Stanley Levison, and Clarence B. Jones, offering an intimate look at the people who shaped a defining moment in American history.
Spring brings Here There Are Blueberries by Moisés Kaufman and Amanda Gronich, a critically acclaimed work based on true events. When a mysterious album of Nazi-era photographs surfaces at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, it sparks a global conversation about history, memory, and moral responsibility. A Pulitzer Prize finalist and award-winning play, the production stands as one of the most powerful entries of the season.
The season concludes with Pearl’s in the House by Art Manke, featuring a tour-de-force portrayal of legendary performer Pearl Bailey. Set around a White House performance during the Reagan era, the play explores Bailey’s life, career, and complex navigation of race, politics, and entertainment in America, blending storytelling with some of her most memorable songs.
A New Chapter in Evanston
This season marks a defining new chapter for Northlight Theatre as it moves into its permanent home in downtown Evanston. Designed to enhance the audience experience, the new venue features improved sightlines, clear acoustics, comfortable seating, and a welcoming lobby environment, all situated within a vibrant neighborhood setting.
The move represents a significant evolution for the company, which has built a 50-year reputation as one of the Chicago area’s leading regional theaters. With a dedicated space now in place, Northlight is positioned to expand its artistic reach while deepening its connection to audiences.
Additional improvements—including free parking for patrons, a simplified ticketing system with no added fees, and expanded patron services—reflect the theater’s focus on accessibility and audience experience as it enters this next phase.
2026–2027 Season Lineup
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The Front Page
September 9 – October 18, 2026 -
All the World (World Premiere)
November 11 – December 20, 2026 -
The American Five
February 3 – March 3, 2027 -
Here There Are Blueberries
April 7 – May 16, 2027 -
Pearl’s in the House
June 7 – July 18, 2027