***** After nearly a two-year hiatus, Lookingglass Theatre has triumphantly returned, revitalized by a $2 million grant that funded a new performance space inside the Water Tower Pumping Station. The company’s freshly designed lobby and entrance, along with the newly named Joan and Paul Rubschlager Mainstage, mark a new chapter for this innovative theatre. And what better way to celebrate than by returning to their roots—melding circus artistry with classic storytelling?
Circus Quixote, a collaboration with the Actors Gymnasium, breathes new life into Don Quixote de la Mancha, intertwining the classic tale with awe-inspiring acrobatics and imaginative staging. I had the pleasure of attending a preview performance in January, where founding member David Schwimmer and First Lady MK Pritzker officially opened the new stage with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. At that time, the production still felt like a work in progress. However, three weeks later, it has found its footing—becoming exactly the kind of mesmerizing, physically dynamic performance that defines Lookingglass Theatre.
At the heart of the production is Michel Rodriguez Cintra as Don Quijote, an aging dreamer who embarks on his final adventure, accompanied by his loyal squire, Sancho Panza. Eddie Martinez delivers a standout performance as Sancho, doubling as the play’s narrator and bringing warmth and humor to the role. The ensemble cast of seven masterfully inhabits over eleven characters, with Laura Murillo Hart’s hauntingly beautiful vocals enhancing the emotional depth of the production. Her role as the housekeeper, among others, ties together the many shifting narratives through song.
Actors Gymnasium’s talented performers bring the story to life with daring physicality, executing intricate acrobatic feats without the aid of safety ropes or nets. Micah Figueroa (Sanson Carrasco), Julian Hester (Master Nicolas), Andrea San Miguel (Antonio), and Ayana Strutz (Sister Sofia and the Duchess) seamlessly weave between roles, ensuring the show remains fluid and engaging. Strutz, in particular, is a standout, bringing a commanding presence and energy that enriches the production.
Visually, the show is a marvel. Scenic designer Courtney O’Neill’s breathtaking set consists of over 3,000 real books, creating an ever-changing landscape that evolves with the story. Puppet designer Grace Needlman contributes beautifully crafted puppets that captivate even the youngest audience members, keeping them engaged throughout the 2-hour, 15-minute runtime.
Directed and adapted by David and Kerry Catlin, the production maintains an energetic pace, blending humor, spectacle, and heartfelt storytelling into a cohesive and exhilarating experience. The return of Lookingglass Theatre is not just a reopening—it’s a reinvigoration of their signature storytelling style, one that promises an exciting future under new Artistic Director Kasey Foster, who has ambitious plans for the upcoming season.
Circus Quixote runs through March 30th at Lookingglass Theatre, located at 163 E. Pearson St., in the east pumping station off Michigan Ave. Tickets are available at the box office, online at LookingglassTheatre.org, or by calling 312-337-0665.
Showtimes include:
Tuesday and Wednesday at 7 PM,
Thursday at 1:30 PM and 7 PM,
Friday at 7 PM,
Saturday at 1:30 PM and 7 PM,
Sunday at 1:30 pm.
Don’t miss this thrilling blend of classic literature and breathtaking physical theatre!
To see what others are saying, visit www.theatreinchicago.com, go to Review Round-Up and click at “Circus Quixote”.
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