The ghastly 1955 torture and murder of Emmett Till, a 14-year-old Chicago lad visiting Mississippi relatives, and the heroism of his mother helped jump start the civil-rights movement. This is a national story of racism, injustice and hypocrisy, but also a Chicago story of righteousness, honor and courage. If you do not know it, you should and you must. The Ballad of Emmett Till is not the first play about the subject, but this world-premiere drama by Ifa Bayeza may be the most thorough, crossing the line and blending historical drama with jazz-influenced interpretive work. The Ballad of Emmett Till runs through June 1 at the Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn; 312-443-3800; $23-$70. Photo by Peter Wynn Thompson