Chicago Shakespeare Theater (CST) has announced the cast for the North American premiere of 42 Balloons, an uplifting new musical based on the true story of Larry Walters’ lawn chair flight. Following a critically acclaimed UK run, the high-flying production comes to The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare Theater from May 24 to June 29, 2025.

Produced by Broadway and West End veterans Kevin McCollum (Rent, Oh, Mary!), Andy and Wendy Barnes (SIX), and Sonia Friedman Productions (Merrily We Roll Along), 42 Balloons combines an irresistible ’80s pop-inspired score with one of the most unbelievable real-life adventures in aviation history.

What Is 42 Balloons About?

On July 2, 1982, California truck driver Larry Walters achieved his lifelong dream of flight by attaching 42 helium weather balloons to a lawn chair. He soared to over 16,000 feet above Los Angeles airspace, gaining national attention and changing his life forever.

Written by Jack Godfrey and directed by Ellie Coote, 42 Balloons is a funny, heartfelt, and visually captivating musical. The show explores themes of daring, love, and the power of community—and asks: How far would you go to follow your dream?

Don’t miss one of the most talked-about new musicals in Chicago this year. 42 Balloons runs May 24 through June 29, 2025, at The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, located at Navy Pier.

Get tickets at chicagoshakes.com

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