Synopsis

Wrongly convicted of murder and sentenced to death in a small Louisiana community in the late 1940s, Jefferson tries to find freedom during his last days. Grant Wiggins, a schoolteacher who is struggling to find where he belongs, is persuaded to visit Jefferson in prison and impart his wisdom and pride to the young man. This profound story examines the ways in which people must find the value of their lives when they seem to count for nothing.

Content Advisory

Steppenwolf does not offer advisories about subject matter, as sensitivities vary from person to person.If you have any questions about content, age-appropriateness or stage effects(such as strobe lights or theatrical fog) that might have a bearing on patron comfort, please contact the box office at 312-335-1650.

Watch & Listen

A Lesson Before Dying

Cast & Artists

The Artists

Featured Ensemble Members

The Cast

Program Articles

A Lesson Before Dying — Discussion

When Ernest Gaines' A Lesson Before Dying was published in 1993, the book was hailed as "an instant classic." It appeared on the New York Times bestseller list for months and later won the National Book Critic Circle award.

Content Advisory

Steppenwolf does not offer advisories about subject matter, as sensitivities vary from person to person.If you have any questions about content, age-appropriateness or stage effects(such as strobe lights or theatrical fog) that might have a bearing on patron comfort, please contact the box office at 312-335-1650.