Synopsis
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.Running Time
Content Advisory
Watch & Listen
Cast & Artists
The Artists
- Author:ensemble member Bruce Norris
- Directed by: ensemble member Anna D. Shapiro
Featured Ensemble Members
Reviews
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
Program Articles
For the first time, we are inviting our subscribers to enjoy one of their five–play series in the Upstairs Theatre. Producing one of our plays Upstairs gives us the opportunity to open up new weeks in the schedule.
Martha Lavey explores the themes and potent relevancy of Bruce Norris' The Pain and the Itch.
Associate Artistic Director Curt Columbus speaks to playwright Bruce Norris and director and ensemble member Anna D. Shapiro about the fifth show in the 29th season, The Pain and the Itch
Steppenwolf salutes The Harold and Mimi Steinberg Charitable Trust for their uncompromising support of new play development.
In all of his plays, Bruce Norris feeds the audience just enough clues about his characters and their circumstances to leave us hungry for more.
The presence of a child actor amidst the mature subject matter of The Pain and the Itch made the production an especially challenging project for Steppenwolf. Learn how Steppenwolf works with child actors, ensuring a top-notch performance while maintaining a suitable atmosphere.