This summer, I took my family to Navy-Pier Chicago Shakespeare Theater and enjoyed color, rhythm, and breathtaking acrobatics as theater welcomes the world-renowned Circus Abyssinia for a limited engagement ofEthiopian Dreams. This 70-minute spectacle is a joyous explosion of human potential, cultural pride, and sheer entertainment, making it a must-see for audiences of all ages.
At its heart is a story as inspiring as the performance itself. Mehari “Bibi” Tesfamariam and Binyam “Bichu” Shimellis, brothers from Jimma, Ethiopia, taught themselves to juggle and tumble with props carved from wood and seeds sewn into socks.
With little more than determination and raw talent, they performed on city streets, dreaming of something bigger. Decades later, they founded Circus Abyssinia, the first professional Ethiopian circus company, giving homegrown performers a global stage to share their artistry.
Co-created and directed by Bichu Shimellis and written by Cal McCrystal, with choreography by Kate Smyth, Ethiopian Dreams is a soaring spectacle. From astonishing contortionists to lightning-fast jugglers, the ensemble pushes the boundaries of the human body, all set to a soundtrack of beloved Ethiopian songs that recall the founders’ journey and celebrate their homeland’s rich cultural tapestry.
From the moment the lights dim in the intimate Jentes Family Courtyard Theater, the audience is swept into a dreamscape where gravity seems optional. Mesmerizing contortionists, fearless tumblers, and lightning-fast jugglers perform feats so astounding they draw audible gasps. Indeed, this is not just a showcase of physical prowess, it’s a jubilant celebration of the human spirit and a testament to what can be achieved through passion and perseverance.
It’s a perfect fit for Chicago Shakspear Theater, where audiences are immersed in the action. Known for its world-class productions, Theater has long been a cultural beacon in the city. Since opening its doors in 1999 on Navy Pier, it has honored the Bard’s legacy by presenting bold reimaginings of Shakespeare alongside innovative new works from around the globe.
Following Ethiopian Dreams, upcoming season promises an equally dynamic lineup, including a highly anticipated new staging of Much Ado About Nothing set in 1940s Chicago and a world premiere adaptation of The Tempest infused with modern dance and multimedia design. The theater continues to champion diverse voices and forms, reaffirming its place as a hub for artistic innovation.
