topdog/underdog
written by suzan-lori parks
directed by kenny leon
Sep 17 - nov 1, 2026 in the downstairs theater
“Take thuh cards and show me whatcha got!”
Brothers Lincoln and Booth, named in jest, are two Black men living in America just trying to get by. Lincoln dresses like his namesake, reenacting his assassination for money and laughs. Booth stays stuck in their apartment, working tirelessly on his three-card hustle. Sibling rivalry and a lifetime of resentment come to a head in this fast-paced and ferocious thrill ride from Suzan-Lori Parks. The deck is stacked with a Tony Award-winning director, a Pulitzer Prize-winning script and a tour-de-force showdown for ensemble members Glenn Davis and Namir Smallwood.
Cast & Artists
The Artists
- Playwright - Suzan-Lori Parks
- Director - Kenny Leon
Featured Ensemble Members
- Lincoln - Glenn Davis
- Booth - Namir Smallwood
WHAT A TIME.
Steppenwolf is the place to experience the next big thing in American theatre. Welcome to our 2026/27 Season. You don't want to miss this.
Additional Information
Audio-Described and Touch Tour:
Sunday, October 25 at 3:00pm
(1:30pm Touch Tour)
Open-Captioned Public Performances:
Thursday, October 17 at 7:30pm
Saturday, October 8 at 3:00pm
ASL-Interpreted Public Performance:
Friday, October 16 at 7:30pm
Education + Engagement
Steppenwolf supports the art on our stage with a number of free and discounted education and engagement programming throughout the season. Ranging from field trip opportunities, school residencies, arts workshops, teen nights, community partnerships and more! Whether you're a theatre learner, maker, or appreciator, check out our amazing programming here.
Welcome to Our Ensemble
Steppenwolf prides itself on being one of the premier ensemble theaters in America. By visiting Steppenwolf, you become part of our community and therefore agree to adhere to the theater’s Patron Code of Conduct.
WHAT A TIME.
Steppenwolf is the place to experience the next big thing in American theatre. Welcome to our 2026/27 Season. You don't want to miss this.
Additional Information
Audio-Described and Touch Tour:
Sunday, October 25 at 3:00pm
(1:30pm Touch Tour)
Open-Captioned Public Performances:
Thursday, October 17 at 7:30pm
Saturday, October 8 at 3:00pm
ASL-Interpreted Public Performance:
Friday, October 16 at 7:30pm