“The Lord of the Rings– A Musical Tale” is a unique take on J.R.R Tolkien‘s epic trilogy of Middle Earth. It had its global debut in Newbury, UK during the summer of 2023. It was an instant success, selling out its 12-week run and drawing in audiences from all over the country. Critics and audiences alike were were struck by its creative brilliance. The performance garnered a WhatsOnStage Award for ‘Best Regional Production’ win. In addition, it won eight Broadway World Awards.

As the musical’s fame continues to spark fan’s interest, it is scheduled to take the American theater scene by storm. Chicago is preparing to host the production, which will open the inaugural season of the highly anticipated Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Director Ed Hall, and Executive Director Kimberly Motes wil bring this adaptation of one of our favorite stories to the stage starting July 19th.
The musical begins with the Hobbits celebrating Bilbo Baggins’ eleventy-first birthday in the Shire. During the celebration, he gifts his nephew Frodo his most precious belonging- a gold ring. This starts Frodo on a legendary and perilous quest across Middle-earth to the darkest realms of Mordor, all in hopes to vanquish evil with his loyal Fellowship. If you remember, Ralph Bakshi‘s “The Lord of the Rings” cartoon from the 70s was very much a musical.
We’re excited to have more of that alongside a live “Lord of the Rings” production.
The production will run at The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare Theater from July 19th-September 1st, 2024.