Community Education Travel Theatre Trips

Chicago is world renowned for its excellence in theatre, and our CET theatre trips offer a fun and affordable way to engage in the art of live performance.

Engagement in the arts is an essential part of lifelong learning and CET is proud to offer these unique opportunities to our community. All trip costs include transportation, tickets, and a meal. Be sure to reserve space early, as these trips often fill very quickly.

IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT WAIT LISTS: Trips marked as ‘Wait List’ are currently full, but may have additional spaces or departures added based upon demand. Placing your name on a wait list is free of charge and can be easily done by emailing cetravel@d214.org or calling us at 847-718-7709.

THEATRE IN CHICAGO!  

“Beautiful–The Carole King Musical”
Wednesday May 1, 2024  (WAIT LIST)**

See “Beautiful – The Carole King Musical” at the historic Paramount Theatre in Aurora. This show was nominated for seven Tony Awards, winning two plus  a Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album! “Beautiful” tells the inspiring true story of King’s remarkable rise to stardom and her career as one of the most successful singers, songwriters and musicians in music history. Her song credits include “You’ve Got a Friend,” “It’s Too Late,” “Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” “So Far Away,” and many more.  Lunch is included at the Meyer Ballroom adjacent to the Paramount. $119
** Previously on sale - WAIT LIST Only!

“Mamma Mia!” at the Nederlander Theatre
Wednesday May 15, 2024               

Celebrating 25 years, “Mamma Mia!” returns to Chicago at the Nederlander Theatre. This feel-good show is the hilarious story of single mother Donna, struggling to cope with her young daughter's impending marriage on a sun-filled picturesque Greek island. Throw into the mix three lovers from her past, any of whom could be the father of her daughter!  This smash-hit musical includes ABBA’s greatest hits–including “Dancing Queen,” “Super Trouper,” “Take A Chance on Me,” “S.O.S.,” and “The Winner Takes It All”–with an enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship! Enjoy lunch before the musical. $231

“Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” at the Nederlander Theatre 
Wednesday November 13, 2024

Broadway’s spellbinding sensation “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” is coming to Chicago on its first-ever North American tour. Join the next adventure and experience the wizarding world like never before at this record-breaking, Tony Award-winning hit, hailed by Forbes Magazine as “one of the most defining pop culture events of the decade.”  When Harry Potter’s headstrong son befriends the son of his fiercest rival, it sparks an unbelievable new journey for them all—with the power to change the past and future forever. Prepare for a mind-blowing race through time, spectacular spells, and an epic battle.  Enjoy a great lunch before the matinee at Chicago’s Weber Grill. $245

“The Audience” at Drury Lane Theatre       Thursday September 26, 2024

Peek behind the closed doors of Buckingham Palace in “The Audience,” an intimate portrait of Queen Elizabeth II and the pivotal private audiences she held with her prime ministers. From Peter Morgan, writer of “The Crown,” this award-winning play cleverly imagines a series of pivotal meetings between the Downing Street Prime Ministers and their monarch. Masterfully blending the personal and the political, “The Audience” gives an extraordinary glimpse into the woman behind the crown. Upon our arrival at Drury Lane, an elegant luncheon is served at the theater’s restaurant with a preselected choice of entrees before we step into the grandiose theater! $149