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[title]Blue Man Group
The long-running performance franchise, featuring mute, indigo-hued dudes drumming and splashing, has three NYE shows. The 4pm matinee is perfect for families looking to make it an early night, while the final show of the evening includes a countdown to midnight with Champagne and party favors. Briar Street Theatre, 3133 N Halsted St (773-348-4000). 4, 7, 10pm; $55–$75.
The Magic Parlour
The House Theatre’s resident illusionist, Dennis Watkins, writer and star of the January remount of The Magnificents, conjures up a special edition of his intimate magic show. The price of admission covers drinks, including a midnight Champagne toast. Palmer House Hilton, 17 E Monroe St (773-769-3832). 10:30pm; $125.
Superior Donuts
Mary-Arrchie’s production of Tracy Letts’s dramedy, set in a grungy Uptown doughnut shop, has been one of the defining hits of 2012. Close out the year with its this-time-we-mean-it final performance. Royal George Theatre, 1641 N Halsted St (312-988-9000, ticketmaster.com). 8pm; $50, students and seniors $40.
Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind
Join the Neo-Futurists for a preshow party with beer, wine and hors d’oeuvres (doors open at 9:30pm). Stay after the show for a toast to the New Year plus the traditional Too Much Light pizza. Reservations are required. Neo-Futurarium, 5153 N Ashland Ave (773-275-5255). 11pm; $50.
Under the Streetlamp
The cabaret quartet—former Jersey Boys Shonn Wiley, Michael Cunio, Michael Ingersoll and Christopher Kale Jones—polishes up its doo-wop harmonies for two shows at the Paramount. The late show includes a midnight countdown and, you guessed it, a Champagne toast. Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd, Aurora (630-896-6666). 6, 10pm; $55–$65.