From Page to Stage: Goodman Inspired 2023 Winter Reads
Written by Vicky Mejia
This season, cozy up with Goodman’s recommended winter reads. From eerie mysteries to classic coming-of-age tales, there’s something in our repertoire for your next hibernal retreat. (Re)discover a new book to add to your reading collection, that served as the inspo behind some of the epic performances that have graced our stages. Whether you’re a casual reader or a hardcore theatre aficionado, we encourage you to check out our top picks for winter 2023.
Next summer—June 25, 2024 to be exact—Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, a New York Times best-selling novel turned movie, turned musical is coming to the Goodman. Written by Taylor Mac, the creative team behind our upcoming musical will feature MacArthur “Genius” grantee Taylor Mac, Tony Award winners Jason Robert Brown and Rob Ashford, and choreographer Tanya Birl. We’re excited to see the beloved characters in this true-crime blockbuster come to life.
Why we love it: It’s the perfect mix of southern charm and intrigue. Plus, the lush descriptions make us want to book a flight to Savannah, STAT!
This 2003 page-turning memoir written by Good Night Oscar playwright Doug Wright about beauty industry icons Helena Rubinstein and Elizabeth Arden graced the Goodman Stage in 2016 as a World Premiere musical. Taking place in the 20th century, self-invention and sacrifice launched these women into unmarked territory. In a stunning performance, two-time Tony Award winners Patti Lupone and Christine Ebersole went head-to-head as two business titans who paved the way for the next generation of female entrepreneurs.
Why we love it: Four words: Pattie LuPone. Christine Ebersole.
A soaring adaptation of Chilean-born author Roberto Bolaño’s masterpiece, 2666 begins with a group of hapless European academics hot on the trail of an elusive author—a search that leads them into the dark heart of a Mexican border city where the murders of hundreds of women remain unsolved. 2666 was named “Best Book of 2008” by TIME Magazine, and there’s no question why. Although it was written nearly 15 years ago, 2666 continues to resonate with real outcomes happening around the world today.
Why we love it: As we turn the pages, we get to travel from Spain, to Mexico, to Germany in this aching, timely piece.
Written by David Ives, Venus in Fur is a laugh-out-loud study of the politics of sex and power that’s guaranteed to charm and mesmerize. The smash Broadway hit made its Chicago debut in 2014. Protagonist Vanda (actress) playfully challenges us to view her relationship with Thomas (director) in an unexpected way.
Why we love it: It’s not often you get to read both sides of the story. What if you did?
Take it back to the classics with Rudyard Kipling’s time-honored children’s tale, The Jungle Book, a musical which premiered in 2013 at the Goodman. The spell-binding production featured original Indian inspired music and dance. Immerse yourself in the tropical jungle vacation and join Mowgli on a wild adventure through the animal kingdom.
Why we love it: Disney and Animals! What’s not to love?
A striking reimagining of the tale of Rumpelstiltskin, Ghostwritten explores the relationship between America and Southeast Asia, unearthing the wounds of the Vietnam War and uncovering what it means to come face to face with the ghosts of your past. Striking a bargain with a stranger is a perfect concoction for chaos when they come back to collect debt. Sit on the edge of your seat with this chilling story.
Why we love it: It’s a modern twist on a classic spooky lore.
Regina Taylor’s gospel musical sensation first premiered in 2004 at the Goodman. When Chicago-born Yolanda is sent down South after the death of her brother, she finds strength in the tales of the wise women who surround her—and the powerful rituals connected to their dazzling hats. This jubilant story promises a joyful good time and might leave you wanting to channel your own hattitude.
Why we love it: Fashion speaks louder than words, or in this case, hats.
Praised for its rich theatricality when first produced in the intimate Goodman studio, this production was reimagined for the expansive Albert stage in 2007. Adapted by award-winning director Mary Zimmerman from a twelfth-century Persian epic, Mirror of the Invisible World (Nizami Khamseh) tells the story of a young King who, after falling in love with seven princesses—each from a different land—builds seven pavilions to house his beautiful brides.
Why we love it: You’ll unfurl different dimensions the more you read this book.
This is just a snippet of the many amazing and extensive productions inspired by books that have appeared at the Goodman. Before it makes its big debut next summer, learn more about our next book turned musical, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Happy reading!
Vicky Mejia is the Digital Marketing Associate at Goodman Theatre
