Steppenwolf is Chicago’s top stage for quality, provocative theater productions. The Hollywood-heavy ensemble includes Gary Sinise, John Malkovich, Martha Plimpton, Gary Cole, Joan Allen and Tracy Letts. A money-saving tip: the box office releases 20 tickets for $20 for each day’s shows; they go on sale at 11am Tuesday to Saturday and at 1pm Sunday, and are available by phone.

　　The Downstairs Theatre is the main performance space, the Upstairs Theatre is more intimate, and the small, black box 1700 Theatre hosts emerging actors and playwrights. Hang out after the show in Front Bar, Steppenwolf's on-site cafe, and you might end up having a drink next to the performers.