So you're eager to be out and about in the Windy City on the 31st of December. You and me both. But wait: You want something a little out of the ordinary. You want some live action to which you can take your intriguing New Year's Eve date. In short, you want a nifty theatrical experience where a good time will be had by all. Centerstage has got you covered. Here's a selection of NYE theater events, in both the city and the nearby suburbs.
Apollo Studio Theater
10 p.m.; $45
Have you ever had a hankering for a show that recalls the old time radio programs of yore? This WNEP Theater production is the show for you, with a twist: The program is actually a countdown toward the total destruction of the planet. Celebrate in style; the doors open at 10 p.m. for cocktails, followed by the show at 10:45 and a champagne toast at midnight.
RadioStar
8 p.m.; $95-$125.
If '80s nostalgia is your thing, party down with the gang from Wanaget High at the recently opened Awesome 80s Prom at RadioStar. Party like it's 1989 with a finger food buffet, cocktails, and champagne toast with balloon drop at midnight. The fun and games begin at 8 p.m., with the show beginning at 9:30 p.m.
Strawdog Theatre Company
8 p.m.; $25
Hell in a Handbag productions has retired its camp classic from last season, "Rudolph the Red-Hosed Reindeer," in favor of a new offering, "Judy's Scary Little Christmas." Judy Garland hosts a Christmas special which includes such guest luminaries as Bing Crosby, Ethel Merman, Joan Crawford, and a spooky unexpected visitor. Their special New Year's Eve celebration includes a reception and fun with the Handbag gang.
Pheasant Run Theatre
8:30 p.m.; call for room and dinner packages
Noble Fool Theatricals has remounted its holiday spoof from previous seasons, "Roasting Chestnuts," featuring Gina Oswald, the comic creation of actress Pat Musker. This year, Gina is visited by the ghosts of Christmas to revitalize her holiday spirit. Pheasant Runs is offering special New Year's Eve packages; call the box office for details, which will include a reception on the Pheasant Run Resort's Bourbon Street.
Donny's Skybox Studio
10:30 p.m.; $10
Four comediennes, Angela Quintant, Katie Neff, Brooke Becker and Hilary Bauman, have brought their comic stylings to Donny's Skybox Studio. This is not a show for guys who are scared of strong women. For everyone else, check out the Studio on New Year's Eve for a special countdown and celebration.
Metropolis Performing Arts Centre
6:30 and 10 p.m.; $45 ($50 for cabaret tables)
For those inclined to spend New Year's in the suburbs, the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre has teamed up with Second City again to bring a fun-filled evening of laughs to Arlington Heights. Sketches and songs abound at two performances (the second of which includes a champagne toast).
Neo-Futurarium
9:30 p.m.; $30
The Neo-Futurists offer a special performance of their long running hit, in which they attempt to perform 30 plays in 60 minutes. While the regular show can get a bit raunchy, the New Year's Eve celebration is designed for all ages. The doors open at 9:30 for hors d'ouevres and non-alcoholic beverages, with a toast and pizza at midnight. The company has also broken with their tradition for this one night, and instead of forbidding advance reservations, reservations are required; they can be made at www.neofuturists.org.
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