In a city with such a vibrant arts scene, it's hard to pick out just a handful as the best. But here's a try:
• The Art Institute of Chicago, the CSO and the Poetry Foundation have teamed up to offer a yearlong series entitled American Perspectives, encompassing image, music and words. Opening day is this Saturday, Sept. 15.
• Redmoon Theatre is reliably entertaining and thought-provoking. Its current production examines the world of haute couture and "the virtues and vices of being naughty and nice."
• The Joffrey Ballet's upcoming performance of Giselle promises to be outstanding.
• Steppenwolf returns to the classics with The Crucible, opening this Thursday, Sept. 13.