The Blue Man Group show in Chicago typically lasts around 1 hour and 45 minutes. This includes a 15 minute intermission about halfway through the performance. The total run time can vary slightly from night to night.
The Blue Man Group is an innovative performance art company that combines music, comedy, and multimedia theatrics to create a unique form of entertainment. Their shows feature three bald and blue-painted men who take the audience on a fun-filled journey full of surprises, humor, and audience interaction.
The Blue Man Group has permanent theatrical residencies in several major cities around the world, including Chicago, New York, Boston, Las Vegas, Orlando, and Berlin. The Chicago residency performs at the Briar Street Theatre in the city’s Lakeview neighborhood.
About the Chicago Blue Man Group Show
The Chicago production of Blue Man Group opened at Briar Street Theatre in October of 1997. As of 2023, the show is still running strong after over 25 years. It is currently the second longest-running theatrical production in Chicago history after the improv comedy revue Second City.
The Chicago show features all of Blue Man Group’s signature elements. This includes outrageous comedy routines, innovative music played on PVC instruments, colorful visual effects, and active audience participation. Parts of the show change over time, so even repeat visitors are likely to experience new surprises.
Show Length
So how long can you expect the Chicago Blue Man Group show to last? Here is a breakdown of the typical show length:
- Total run time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
- Act 1: Roughly 50-55 minutes
- Intermission: Approximately 15 minutes
- Act 2: Roughly 45-50 minutes
Keep in mind these are approximate timings, as the show length can vary slightly from performance to performance. The crew may need to adjust pacing or improvise based on audience reactions on a given night. But in general, you can expect a total experience lasting around 1 hour and 45 minutes including the intermission.
More About Blue Man Group Chicago Show Times
In addition to the show length, there are a few other timing considerations to keep in mind when planning your Blue Man Group Chicago experience:
Arrival Time
The theater doors open 30 minutes prior to show time. It’s recommended you plan to arrive at least 15-20 minutes early so you have time to find your seats and get settled before the show starts.
Show Times
There are typically two show times per day on most days: an evening show and a matinee. On weekends, it’s common for there to be three shows per day with an additional matinee.
The most common show times are:
- Monday to Thursday Evening Shows: 8:00pm
- Friday Evening Shows: 7:00pm and 10:00pm
- Saturday Shows: 4:00pm, 7:00pm and 10:00pm
- Sunday Shows: 3:00pm and 6:00pm
- Matinees (days can vary): 2:00pm
It’s a good idea to double check show times when booking tickets, as they can sometimes vary from the usual schedule for holidays or special events.
Intermission
There is a 15 minute intermission that takes place about midway through the show. Intermission gives the audience a chance for a quick bathroom or concession break before Act 2 begins.
Inside the Blue Man Group Chicago Theater
The Blue Man Group Chicago production is staged at the Briar Street Theatre. Here are some key things to know about the theater:
Location
The Briar Street Theatre address is 3133 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657. It’s located in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood.
Seating Capacity
The theater has a seating capacity of around 400 seats. It’s an intimate theater with no seat more than 45 feet from the stage.
Amenities & Accessibility
The theater offers:
- Accessible seating & wheelchair accommodations
- Assistive listening devices
- Free WiFi
- Full service bar and concessions
- Restrooms
- Coat check
Getting to the Theater
You have a few options to get to the theater:
- Public Transit: Take the CTA Red Line to the Belmont Station. Briar Street Theatre is about a 10 minute walk from there.
- Parking: Pay parking lots are available within 1-2 blocks of the theater. Expect to pay $20-$40 for 3+ hours of parking.
- Ride Share: Services like Uber and Lyft can drop off directly in front of the theater entrance.
Give yourself plenty of time to arrive, park, and get seated – especially on weekends when the neighborhood is busy.
Buying Tickets to Blue Man Group Chicago
Here are some tips for purchasing tickets to see Blue Man Group Chicago:
Where to Buy
You can purchase tickets directly through the Blue Man Group Chicago website or ticket seller sites like VividSeats and TicketNetwork. Purchasing directly generally offers the best availability and price.
Ticket Prices
Ticket prices vary based on factors like:
- Show time (evening vs. matinee)
- Day of the week
- Seat location
- Time of year
In general, expect to pay approximately:
Seat Type | Average Price Range |
---|---|
Standard Entry | $49 – $69 |
Premium | $79 – $99 |
VIP / Platinum | $124 – $150 |
Matinee and weekday shows are generally the lowest priced. Premium seats in the middle of the theater usually cost more.
Discounts
Here are some ways you may be able to get discounted tickets:
- Check the venue website for special offers. Ongoing deals and family packs are sometimes available.
- Sign up for the email newsletter to get access to presales and exclusive promos.
- Look for coupons on sites like Goldstar.
- Ask about student, military, senior (65+), or other discounts when purchasing.
- Watch for seasonal sales around the holidays or slower months like January.
Group Sales
Special group rates and blocks are available for parties of 10+ people. Call the box office or fill out the online group sales form to inquire.
FAQs About Blue Man Group Chicago
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the Chicago show:
Is Blue Man Group appropriate for kids?
Yes! Blue Man Group is fun for the whole family. Kids as young as 2 are welcome at the Chicago show. Some parents may want to avoid bringing very small toddlers who may get scared of loud music or sudden visual effects.
Is there an age limit to join the band?
There is no upper age limit, but all Blue Men must go through extensive training so most join around their early to mid 20s. Blue Men portray childlike innocence on stage, so it is difficult for older performers to adopt that persona.
How much mess should I expect in the splash zone?
Sitting in the first 2-3 rows does mean you’ll get a bit wet during the show. Ponchos are provided but wearing clothes and shoes you don’t mind getting messy is wise. The splashing is all part of the fun!
What are the best seats at Briar Street Theatre?
The center of the orchestra section rows E-L provide a great balance of optimal viewing and getting the full immersive experience. For the most intense splashing action sitting front and center is best.
Is Blue Man Group suitable for someone with hearing issues?
Yes, the theater provides assistive listening devices upon request. Some portions have loud music but the comedy is still enjoyable for those with hearing impairments.
Conclusion
Attending a Blue Man Group Chicago show at Briar Street Theatre is an unforgettable experience. The unique music, hilarity, technology and high energy keep audiences entertained from start to finish of the approximately 1 hour and 45 minute performance. With shows suitable for all ages, it makes for an excellent family outing or date night that everyone can enjoy.
Be sure to arrive early, dress ready for a few splashes, and prepare to laugh nonstop during this imaginative spectacle. The Blue Men look forward to welcoming you!