In his program note, Building Stage Artistic Director (and Ring Cycle co-Director) Blake Montgomery explains the company's choice of programming during unstable economic times in which many theatre companies have folded. "If we were to produce art in this climate, we wanted to offer a show that simply couldn't be missed, something bold and outrageous, something unheard of - not simply something easy to do in difficult times." Adapting Wagner's 16-hour, four-part opera Der Ring des Nibelungen into a six-hour play is certainly a bold, outrageous move, although presenting works of epic length is not without recent precedent - we're reminded of last year's Neo-Futurist adaptation of Eugene O'Neill's Strange Interlude, which we loved. Strange Interlude was successful because it swallowed the original piece and spit it out Neo-Futurist-style, without fear. In its fearless moments, when it embraces its own whimsical and fresh style, The Ring Cycle is brilliant. Unfortunately, these moments didn't quite hold us for six hours. However, the show will be split in two Thursday, March 11 (Act I) and Friday, March 12 (Act II) only - we have a feeling it will work a bit better this way. more ›

A new location, an inaugural theme, photographers and devisers - oh my! Anthony Moseley, artistic director or Sketchbook, spoke to us about what makes Chicago’s annual seven-minute play festival worth your while. more ›

Looking for an unusual show? Allow us to direct you to Objects In Motion at The Building Stage, which explores the creation of theatrical pieces around/starring inanimate objects ranging from marionettes, hand puppets and 2D drawings to rubber balls, feather dusters and light bulbs. The festival is comprised of three programs including work from more than 20 Chicago artists - we caught the Intimate (“Toy Theater”) Program and Program B last weekend. more ›