CONTEXT
A series of community conversations that explore how the themes of a Goodman production intersect with contemporary issues in Chicago—and beyond.
The Goodman’s CONTEXT series invites audiences to participate in pre-show discussions, post-show engagements, behind-the-scenes events and educational opportunities that offer valuable insights into the themes, creative process and cultural context of the works of art on our stages and explore how the themes of a Goodman production intersect with contemporary issues in Chicago and beyond.
Unlike post-show discussions that focus primarily on the production, CONTEXT events concentrate on particular issues raised within the plays and explore how they resonate in today’s culture, and offers public space for discussion, dialogue and debate. CONTEXT programming enhances the overall theater-going experience, fostering dialogue and conversation between our artists and our audiences and making space for vibrant community engagement and connection.
UPCOMING EVENTS
ashland avenue:
channeling our stories
Friday, September 26
Part of The Goodman’s CONTEXT series, Channeling Our Stories invites you to experience live, intergenerational storytelling that explores the moments that shape who we are and how we let go.
Storytellers of different generations share personal narratives inspired by themes of change, milestones and the meaning of home – stories that reveal the architecture of identity, the challenges of departures and the unexpected connections between lives. After each story, we invite you to reflect and share with one another, noticing parallels, surprises and insights that emerge when we engage with the full range of human experience. Together, we’ll see how stories open doors, spark reflection and deepen empathy, leaving you with laughter, connection and a renewed appreciation for the beauty – and difficulty – of being human.
Past Event
REVOLUTION(S):
poet on THE pulse
Friday, October 24
Want to learn from a pioneer in the world of poetry and spoken word? Join us for Poet on the Pulse, part of The Goodman’s CONTEXT series!
Alongside prominent Chicago-based poet and educator, Faith Overall, we’ll explore how poetry sparks social change by advocating for justice, amplifying marginalized voices and inspiring action. There will be a guided conversation, compelling performances and light fare!
Come witness poetry’s revolutionary potential to ignite spirit, build community and transform our world.
Past Event
Latine Affinity Night: The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao
Friday, March 6 at 6pm
Join us for a special CONTEXT event in collaboration with the Goodman’s Latine affinity group.
Explore the vibrant, layered world of The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao. We’ll have the director of the show, Wendy Mateo, lead participants through a community art-making exercise to explore the concepts of Fukú and Zafa, the complexity of the Dominican experience, and the joy of creation. Light refreshments and a specialty beverage will be provided.
Explora el mundo vibrante y dinámico de La Breve y Maravillosa Vida de Oscar Wao. La directora del espectáculo, Wendy Mateo, guiará a los participantes en un ejercicio de creación artística comunitaria para explorar los conceptos de Fukú y Zafa, la complejidad de la experiencia Dominicana y la alegría de la creación. Se ofrecerán refrigerios ligeros y una bebida especial.
Combined tickets are $45 ($36 ticket plus $9 handling fee) and include a drink ticket, light refreshments, access to our Affinity space, and a seat for the 7:30pm performance of The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao.
Las entradas combinadas cuestan 45 dólares (Entrada de $36 mas tarifa de gestión de $9) e incluyen un vale para una bebida, refrigerios ligeros, acceso a nuestro espacio Affinity y un asiento para la función de las 7:30 de La Breve y Maravillosa Vida de Oscar Wao.
*If the code is not pre-applied, enter code AFFINITY in the “Have a Code” field in the top right of the page before proceeding to check out. Not valid on previously purchased tickets or in combination with other offers.
Si el código no está aplicado previamente, introduce el código AFFINITY en el campo «Have a Code?» situado en la esquina superior derecha de la página antes de finalizar la compra. No válido para entradas compradas con anterioridad ni en combinación con otras ofertas.
Tickets to the event without a seat for The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao will be $7.
Las entradas para el evento sin asiento para La Breve y Maravillosa Vida de Oscar Wao costarán 7 dólares.
Roots and Recipes: a context event
Friday, March 13 at 6pm
Join us for an immersive evening where food meets storytelling, and culture comes alive around the table.
Inspired by The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao, this event invites you to explore the rich tapestry of identity, diaspora, and heritage through shared dishes and meaningful dialogue. Your ticket for the evening includes a Dominican-inspired tasting menu and guided conversation exploring culture and cuisine. All ages welcome. Beverages provided.
¡Ven a disfrutar de una noche llena de sabor y relatos! Inspirado en La Breve y Maravillosa Vida de Oscar Wao, este evento reúne platos con influencia dominicana y conversaciones profundas sobre identidad, herencia y pertenencia. Su entrada para la noche incluye un menú de inspiración Dominicana y una conversación guiada para explorar la cultura y la gastronomía. Todas las edades son bienvenidas. Bebidas proporcionadas.
GET TICKETS
A Sprited Event
Friday, February 6 at 6pm
Join us for a behind-the-scenes evening of flavor, storytelling, and theatrical flair as we explore the art of crating a specialty cocktail inspired by our production of Holiday.
Whether you’re a theater lover, cocktail enthusiast, or just curious about how a drink can tell a story, this evening promises to be a delightful toast to creativity. This immersive experience blends mixology with dramaturgy, offering guests a taste of the creative process behind the show. From the first spark of inspiration to the final garnish, guests will be guided through the cultural, thematic, and sensory elements that shape a one-of-a-kind drink. This 21 and over evening includes: a live cocktail demonstration, a tasting session of the featured cocktail and light bites.
Tickets for the event only are $15. Tickets are just $7 when added to a Holiday performance.
GET TICKETS FOR EVENT ONLY
For tickets to the February 6, 7:30pm performance of Holiday CLICK HERE.
After adding the performance ticket(s) to your cart you will be able to add on event tickets. The $7 event price will be reflected after adding the event to your cart.
Ma rainey’s black bottom: black affinity night
Friday, April 10 at 6pm
This event is designed for those who identify as Black and offers a unique opportunity to explore the cultural roots and musical legacy that shaped the 1920s—and beyond. The evening will feature a Live DJ Set and conversation with Rae Taylor (DJ Rae Chardonnay), the 2025 DJ Scholar-in-Residence for the Renaissance Project. Connect with community and dive deeper into the themes of Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom with a special discounted ticket rate for the 7 pm show, light refreshments, and beverages. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to celebrate creativity and community. We look forward to seeing you there!
Combined tickets are $50 ($41 ticket + $9 service fee) and include a drink ticket, light refreshments, access to our Affinity space, and a seat for the 7:30pm performance of Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.
*If the code is not pre-applied, enter code BLACKAFFINITY in the “Have a Code” field in the top right of the page before proceeding to check out. Not valid on previously purchased tickets or in combination with other offers.
Tickets to the event without a seat for Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom will be $10.
SPONSORS
