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BOX OFFICE EXPLORE A PRODUCTION

The Pain and the Itch

The Pain and the Itch

By Bruce Norris
Directed by ensemble member Anna D. Shapiro
Featuring ensemble members Kate Arrington, Tracy Letts, Mariann Mayberry and James Vincent Meredith with Lillian Almaguer, Hailey Gould, Jayne Houdyshell and Zak Orth

In the Downstairs Theatre
Thu. June 30, 2005 — Sun. August 28, 2005

Overview

WORLD PREMIERE

Something's been gnawing at the avocados in Clay and Kelly's kitchen. This upper middle class American couple will go to any lengths to protect their children from whatever creature has invaded their domestic bliss, but the sense of invasion will not stop. This darkly funny, bitingly insightful comedy exposes one family's dysfunction and darkest secrets during a particularly interesting Thanksgiving.

Contains adult language and content.

Tickets: $20-$60

Exclusively sponsored by The Harold and Mimi Steinberg Charitable Trust

Additional support provided by the Steppenwolf Auxiliary Council

Running Time: 1 hour 50 minutes with 1 intermission

Reviews

"A SMASHING NEW SATIRE! MASSIVELY ENTERTAINING!"
Christopher Piatt, Time Out Chicago

"A writer who is actually saying something...the play feels very much of the moment. THE STEPPENWOLF PRODUCTION IS EXCELLENT."
Michael Phillips, Chicago Tribune

"A SHOCKER, even by Steppenwolf’s outré standards!"
Chris Jones, Variety

"The direction by Shapiro is flawless...her ensemble delivers A+ performances we have come to expect from Steppenwolf."
Jack Helbig, Daily Herald

"Captivates an audience from start to finish!"
Larry Bommer, Chicago Free-Press

"BRUTALLY FUNNY...THOROUGHLY ENGAGING"
Kerry Reid, Chicago Reader

"Impeccable direction and highwire performances."
Hedy Weiss, Chicago Sun-Times

"****(out of four) But not for the faint of heart."
Jack Helbig, Daily Herald

"BRILLIANT"
Beverly Friend, Pioneer Press