Familiar, Steppenwolf Theatre, through Jan. 13. Even if the powerhouse trio of Ora Jones, Jacqueline Williams and Cheryl Lynn Bruce weren’t reason enough to get out to Danai Gurira’s smart new stereotype-free play, how often do you see the words “Africa” and “comedy” in the same sentence? MSB
Buttcracker: A Nutcracker Burlesque, (Sub)version Productions at Reggie’s Music Joint, through Dec. 26. It may be cold outside this holiday season, but the gender-fluid body-positive spoof of the classic ballet in the South Loop features sizzling jazz and costumes to match. MSB
Gypsy, Porchlight Music Theatre, through Dec. 29. E. Faye Butler is ferocious yet tender in this exceptional production of a legendary musical. Butler was born to play Mama Rose. JA
The Q Brothers Christmas Carol, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, through Dec. 30. Even in Year Six, this 90-minute rap/hip-hop version of the holiday classic still is a cheeky, edgy, mile-a-minute delight. You’ll smile and tap your toes. JA
—By Abarbanel, Barnidge and Sullivan