A bold comedy that blends slapstick with political bite, and bawdy wordplay with incisive commentary on America's loaded position on the global stage.
About thIS Show
In the dangerous back channels of international resource politics, a wealthy British businessman suffers an untimely accident just before a critical African copper deal is signed. So when his unwitting (and witless) American doppelgänger is thrust into negotiations to avert intercontinental disaster, chaos erupts, leaving us wondering: whose side are we supposed to be on... and who will save Africa?? This new American farce is a hilarious, irreverent and timely look at the back-room deals that shape our world and the unlikely cast of characters who make them.
Casting note: The role of Thomas Irdley/Jimmy Peterson will be played by Eric Slater, in place of Rainn Wilson, for the following performances: April 22, 7:30pm; April 24, 7:30pm; May 6, 3pm and 7:30pm; May 20, 3pm; May 22, 7:30pm.
Seeing 'Sold Out'? Call Audience Services at 312-335-1650 to find out about 20 for $20, standby tickets and waitlists, which we are often able to seat.
Watch & Listen
Content Advisory
The Doppelgänger contains flashing lights, loud noises, nudity and sexual situations and blood and violence. If you have any additional questions about content, age-appropriateness or stage effects that might have a bearing on patron comfort, please contact the box office at 312-335-1650.
Additional Information
Doppelgänger Special Performances
Preview Performances:
April 5 - 14
Open-captioned:
Sunday, April 29 at 7:30pm
Saturday, May 19 at 3pm
Audio-described and touch tour:
Sunday, May 20 at 1:30 touch tour, audio-described performance at 3pm
Engagement Series
On select Sundays, join us for fun, casual & free pre/post show events to engage further with The Doppelgänger. Stick around after the matinee or swing by early if you're attending the evening performance.
A Conversation with Playwright Matthew-Lee Erlbach
Sunday, April 8 6pm-7pm
How to Make a Farce in 2018
Sunday, April 22 6pm-7pm
The History & Politics of Farce in Cinema, with special guest Charles Coleman, programmer at Facets Cinémathèque
Sunday, May 6 6pm-7pm
How Did They Do That? Behind the Scenes of The Doppelgänger
Sunday, May 20 6pm-7pm
Space is limited. RSVP through the links above or by phone (312)-335-1650.
Cast & Artists
The Artists
- Author Matthew-Lee Erlbach
- Directed by ensemble member Tina Landau
- Scenic Design Todd Rosenthal
- Costume Design Clint Ramos
- Lighting Design Scott Zielinski
- Sound Design and Original Music Michael Bodeen
- Sound Design and Original Music Rob Milburn
- Stage Manager Malcolm Ewen
- Assistant Stage Manager Christine D. Freeburg
- Casting Director JC Clementz
- Company Vocal Coach Gigi Buffington
- Artistic Producer Jonathan Berry
- Physical Comedy Consultant Jeff Jenkins
- Dramaturg Polly Hubbard
Featured Ensemble Members
Reviews
"Frenetically funny satire about the deranged world order... performances are broad and superb"
–Chicago Sun Times
"An ensemble that reflects Steppenwolf's historic past and their pursuit of an even richer future... you have to squint just to behold such immaculate brilliance. 'The Doppelgänger' is poised for enormous success"
–NewCity
"Quick-paced and quip-filled, the play incorporates mistaken identity, outrageous situations and slapstick comedy, which Erlbach pairs with a stinging critique of government officials and corporate leaders who profit from the labor of the disenfranchised and dispossessed. Erlbach's of-the-moment satire is uncomfortably incisive and his writing is funny... 'The Doppelgänger' delivers laughs"
–Daily Herald
"This deft combination of comedy and tragedy must be seen to be believed"
–TheatreMania