Becky Shaw, Windy City Playhouse, through Dec. 17. “Love is a by-product of Use” says a cynical cad in Gina Gionfriddo’s slyly Machiavellian comedy, before leaving us to guess he difference between the lovers and the users. MSB
Bobby Pin Girls, Nothing Without a Company at the Chicago Mosaic School, through Dec. 3. The authenticity reflected in Janey Bell’s screwball urban-boho comedy of youthful error born of impulse will be immediately recognizable to audiences of all ages. MSB
Marie Christine, BoHo at Theater Wit through Dec. 10. The tragedy of Medea, retold as the tale of a beautiful Creole voodoo adept, who loves well but not wisely, in Michael John LaChiusa’s musically-complex, rich jazz opera. High musical values, handsome leads and powerful voices make this one to see. JA
Die Walküre, Lyric Opera of Chicago, through Nov 30. Only two more chances this year to see director David Pountney’s 19th-century-framed take on the most popular work in Wagner’s four-part Norse opera epic The Ring of the Nibelung. Resist your urge to sing out “Kill da Wabbit” when the “Ride of the Valkyries” opens Act III. SCM>
—By Abarbanel, Barnidge and Morgan