About this Event:
Crazy or Nah?! is something like a one woman show, comedically questioning the lasting effects of emotional and psychological trauma. Using storytelling, poetry, and stand-up comedy, Kellye tells a winding road story exemplifying resilience, finding inner joy, and the importance of introspection in the acceptance of some of life’s most challenging ebbs. Named Chicago's Boldest comedian by the Chicago Sun-times, Kellye fully live’s up to that title in this latest work. As a 15 year stand up comedy veteran, a known actress, and a graduate of Second City Conservatory; Kellye uses all of her training and experience to create an unforgettable performance which incorporates poetry amongst other unconventional ways to tell an intimate tale.
About the artists
Kellye Howard (she/her) is a United States Air Force veteran and since leaving the military has spent the last decade making a name for herself in roles on Chicago Fire, Chicago Justice, Empire, national commercials, and movies like Cherry starring Tom Holland. Kellye’s work on stage informs and compliments her work off stage; she’s the host of a five year old podcast, Be less Petty, Comedy self-help Podcast cohosted by a licensed Illinois therapist. In this podcast they discuss ways to live a less petty life from a comedic and clinical perspective. She’s no stranger to one woman shows. Her last one woman show Transparent was featured in the JFL Chicago comedy festival, and circulated multiple comedy clubs and theaters across the country. Crazy or Nah! will be Kellye’s 3rd one woman show and in her own words, “the most authentic work I’ve done to date.” Follow updates about Kellye Howard on her website.
Behind every great “known” performer is someone who understands structure… Jason Rhee is that someone and is co-directing Crazy or Nah?!
Jason (he/him) is a Korean American writer and director with a passion for telling stories centered around AAPI and early childhood influences. He is a former writer's assistant for the famed satirical news outlet The Onion, as well as a former script intern and writer’s PA for CONAN. With a background in screenwriting, comedy, and satire, he co-produced two one-woman shows with Kellye Howard entitled Unmarried and Transparent, which has been featured on ABC and described as “exposing admirable vulnerability and strength.” Currently, Jason is working on his first full length sports documentary film about EJ Lee, a visionary female athlete who Sports Illustrated called “The Korean Magic Johnson of NCAA women’s basketball.” He's a 2022 selectee for the Kartemquin DVID fellowship program where he is currently workshopping the documentary.
Whenever Kellye and Jason team up for a creative project, pure magic is created. This show will be no different!
The Thursday and Saturday performances of Crazy Or Nah?! is currently sold out. If tickets became availible they will be sold at our in person box office on the night of each performance.
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.