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!  

“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

“La Boheme” at the Lyric Opera 
Wednesday, March 19, 2025

Lyric Opera presents the enduring, passionate masterpiece “La Bohème.” This masterpiece features Puccini’s most captivating music in a tale of young lovers in 19th-century Paris. With the famous arias of the ardent poet Rodolfo, the fragile seamstress Mimì, and the good-hearted party-girl Musetta, matched perfectly to the romance and heartbreak of this universal story, “La Bohème” is operatic perfection! Audiences have loved “La Bohème” for more than 100 years. Enjoy a wonderful lunch before the show at the Ukrainian-owned Russian Tea Time Restaurant.  $221

“Waitress” at the Paramount Theatre 
Wednesday, February 26, 2025

Based on the 2007 film by the same name, “Waitress” hits the road on its first-ever national tour.  This big-hearted musical tells the story of a diner waitress named Jenna, who works as a pie chef in a small-town diner. Hoping to bake her way out of her troubles, she puts her heart and soul into her unique pies, winning over anyone who tastes them. But when she becomes unexpectedly pregnant it seems like she may have to abandon her dreams forever. Hope is at hand with the announcement of a pie-making competition in a nearby town. The winner of the contest will be awarded a large cash prize, and Jenna realizes it may be her one shot at turning her life around. Nominated for four Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Original Score. Lunch is included at the Meyer Ballroom adjacent to the Paramount.  $137

“Kimberly Akimbo” at the CIBC Theatre 
Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Winner of five 2023 Tony Awards including Best Musical, “Kimberly Akimbo” is about growing up and growing old. The howlingly funny heartbreaker of a show was hailed by The New York Times as "The Comedy of the Year.” About to turn 16, Kimberly has recently moved with her family to a new town in suburban New Jersey. She is forced to navigate family dysfunction, a rare genetic condition, her first crush … and possible felony charges. Ever the optimist, she is determined to find happiness against all odds and embark on a great adventure! A delicious lunch is included before the show at Weber Grill.  $215