War Garden

First Look Repertory of New Work

In Steppenwolf’s fourth annual works-in-progress workshop, this year’s playwrights—Keith Huff, Jason Wells, and Sarah Gubbins—ruminate on love triangles and weird science. July 23–Aug 10. Wed-Fri at 8; Sat, Sun at 1, 4:30, and 8. $20. Garage Theatre, 1624 N Halsted. 312-335-1650.

Lookingglass Alice

Circus-inspired Lookingglass Theatre Company goes back to its roots with a revival of the heralded acrobatic Lewis Carroll adaptation that gave the troupe its name. July 2–Aug 31. Wed-Sat at 7:30; Sun at 3. $30-$60. Water Tower Water Works, 821 N Michigan. 312-337-0665.

Potholes on the Path to Enlightenment

Live Bait Theater casts the net for its annual Fillet of Solo festival into a stellar talent pool. Don’t miss this sacred and profane rundown—on saints, estrangement, and 4 a.m. bars—from Tellin’ Tales Theatre. July 11-27. Fri, Sat at 8; Sun at 3. $10-$15. 3914 N Clark. 773-871-1212. 

Those Sensational Soulful ’60s

Like Soul Train, live onstage. Jackie Taylor’s Black Ensemble Theater reigns supreme in the pop-music bio-drama genre—this time with more than 30 hits made famous by Smokey, Aretha, Gladys, Tina, and others. Thru Aug 31. Sat at 8; Sun at 3. $45. Chicago Center for the Performing Arts, 777 N Green. 312-733-6000. 

War Garden: An Experiment in Patriotic Agriculture

Walkabout Theater Company and NeighborSpace honor Chicago’s long history of community gardening—and plant a few perennials in the process. With gardening tips before each show. $10. July 6 at 5: African Heritage Garden, 3546 W 12th. July 13 at 5: El Coqui Garden, 2600 W Crystal. July 19, 20 at 1: Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N Central Park. July 25-27 at 5: Growing Power Community Garden, Grant Park, Columbus and Congress. 773-527-0341. 

Photography: Seth Bockley