Curtain call
Theater previews and openings: Dec. 12 - 18
‘Burning Bluebeard’
Jay Torrence’s play inspired by the 1903 Iroquois Theatre Fire is told with music, clowning, tumbling, acrobatics and dance. Previews begin Dec. 13, opens Dec. 15; to Dec. 29. The Ruffians at Porchlight Music Theatre at Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn, $45; porchlightmusictheatre.org
‘Dance Nation’
Clare Barron’s comedy about a pre-teen dance troupe navigating ambition, friendship and desire as they claw their way to nationals; directed by Lee Sunday Evans. Previews begin Dec. 12, opens Dec. 19; to Jan. 26. Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted, $20$94; steppenwolf.org
‘Exit Disclaimer — Science & Fiction Ahead’
The Seldoms present a dance theater work that surveys the divisive national argument about climate change. Dec. 12-15. Steppenwolf’s 1700 Theatre, 1700 N. Halsted, $35; steppenwolf.org
‘The Phantom of the Opera’
Cameron Mackintosh’s new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s popular musical. Previews begin Dec. 18, opens Dec. 20; to Jan. 5. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph, $46-$111; broadwayinchicago.com
‘Swinging on a Star, a Salute to Bing Crosby and the Andrews Sisters’
Broadway veteran Jared Bradshaw (“Jersey Boys”) performs classics from a bygone era. Dec. 17. Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Dr., Lincolnshire, $50; artistsloungelive.com
‘Tidings of Tap’
Chicago Tap Theatre’s celebration of tap and the holiday season. Dec. 15. North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie, Skokie, $25-$41; chicagotaptheatre.com
‘Xmas War” and “Xmas War: Endgame’
A double feature with last year’s show and a new sequel that asks: Will Santa succeed with his diabolical plan? Directed by Matt Engle. Opens Dec. 13; to Dec. 21. Factory Theater, 1623 W. Howard, $15; visit thefactorytheater.com
Mary Houlihan, For the Sun-Times