Ride the Cyclone is back in the Chicago area with a connection to its U.S. premiere. Lillian Castillo, a member of the original Chicago cast, directs Metropolis Performing Arts Centre’s production in Arlington Heights, running through October 25, 2026.
The musical follows six teenagers from a chamber choir who die in a roller coaster accident. A mechanical fortune teller, The Amazing Karnak, offers one of them the chance to return to life, leaving each teenager to make a case for a second chance. The premise brings macabre comedy into a story about identity, loss and the value of an individual life.
Dave Honigman plays Karnak and Amelia Tam plays Jane Doe. The production’s creative team includes music director Carolyn Brady and choreographer Mandy Modic, with scenic design by Angela Weber Miller and projections by Anthony Churchill.
In its September 25 email, Metropolis shared favorable notices from the Chicago Tribune, Daily Herald and Around the Town Chicago. Those responses follow the production’s opening and draw attention to the cast and Castillo’s connection to the material.
The venue lists a running time of 90 minutes without an intermission and recommends the production for ages 14 and older. An ASL-interpreted performance is scheduled October 8 at 7:30 p.m.
Metropolis is at 111 W. Campbell St., a short walk from the Arlington Heights station on Metra’s Union Pacific Northwest line. Visit the production page for tickets, performance times and content information.
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