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Entertainment Overview

Chicago's arts and nightlife scene is as vivacious and diverse as its neighborhoods. Sing along with a biographical musical at Black Ensemble Theater to the north or zip southwest to Wicker Park's renowned Steppenwolf Theatre, where you just might run into longtime ensemble member John Malkovich. Head for the Loop where renowned companies such as the Lyric Opera and the Joffrey Ballet hold court. And remember that this is the city that gave birth to the often raucous "poetry slam" at the Green Mill jazz club.

Nighttime entertainment options before and after hours are infinite -- as long as you're willing to explore. Sip an imported Belgian beer at Hopleaf, a cozy North Side tavern, or tap into your wild side at a downtown dance club such as Le Passage. And we wouldn't forget to mention comedy: Second City Club has been unleashing top comedic talents, including John Belushi and Bill Murray, for decades.

Great Performances

If you're even mildly interested in the performing arts, Chicago has the means to put you in your seat -- be it floor, mezzanine, or balcony. Just pick your preference (theater, dance, or symphony/orchestra), and let Chicago's impressive body of artists do the rest. From critically acclaimed big names to fringe groups that specialize in experimental work, there truly is a performance art for everyone.

Ticket prices vary wildly depending on whether you're seeing a high-profile group or venturing into more obscure territory. Chicago Symphony tickets range from $15 to $200, the Lyric Opera from $30 to $175 (if you can get them). Smaller choruses and orchestras charge from $10 to $30; watch the listings for free performances. Commercial theater ranges from $15 to $75; smaller experimental ensembles might charge $5, $10, or pay-what-you-can. Movie prices range from $9 for first-run houses to as low as $1.50 at some suburban second-run houses.

After Dark

Chicago's entertainment varies from loud and loose to sophisticated and sedate. You'll find classic Chicago corner bars in most neighborhoods, along with trendier alternatives like wine bars. The strains of blues and jazz provide much of the backbeat to the city's groove, and an alternative country scene is flourishing. As far as dancing is concerned, the action has switched from cavernous clubs to smaller spots with DJs spinning dance tunes; there's everything from hip-hop to swing. Wicker Park and Bucktown have the hottest nightlife, but prime spots such as Sound-Bar and Le Passage are spread throughout the city.

The Reader (distributed midweek in bookstores, record shops, and other city establishments) is your best guide to the entertainment scene. This free weekly has comprehensive, timely listings and reviews. Another reliable weekly is Time Out Chicago magazine. The Friday editions of the Chicago Tribune and Chicago Sun-Times are also good sources of information. Daily updates on happenings around town are listed in the Chicago Tribune's sister paper, RedEye, or on the Web at www.metromix.com.

Shows usually begin at 9 PM; cover charges generally range from $3 to $20, depending on the day of the week (Friday and Saturday nights are the most expensive). Most bars stay open until 2 AM Friday night and 3 AM Saturday, except for a few after-hours spots and some larger dance clubs, which are often open until 4 AM Friday night and 5 AM Saturday (Berlin, Crobar, and Transit are very popular). Outdoor beer gardens such as Sheffield's and John Barleycorn are the exception; these close at 11 PM on weekdays and midnight on weekends. Some bars are not open seven days a week, so call before you go.