Synopsis

Arthur Pryzbyszewski owns a decrepit donut shop in the Uptown neighborhood of Chicago. Franco Wicks, a black teenager who is his only employee, wants to change the shop for the better. Steppenwolf concludes the season with acclaimed ensemble member Tracy Letts' provocative world premiere comedy about the challenges of embracing the past and the redemptive power of friendship. Ensemble member Tracy Letts is the author of Man from Nebraska, which was produced at Steppenwolf in 2003 and was a finalist for a Pulitzer Prize; Killer Joe, which has been produced in Chicago, London and New York; and Bug, which has played in New York, Chicago and London. His play August: Osage County debuted at Steppenwolf in July 2007. In addition, Letts won the 2008 Pulitzer Prize for Drama for August: Osage County.

Running Time

Running Time: 2 hours 15 minutes, including 1 Intermission

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

Cast & Artists

The Artists

Featured Ensemble Members

The Cast

Reviews

"A witty, seductive, live-wire and greatly entertaining dark comedy that you just don't want to end and you just don't want to miss!" -Chicago Tribune

Program Articles

Artistic Director Interviews the Playwright

Martha Lavey and Tracy Letts discuss the creative writing process.

Five Minutes With Francis Guinan

Ensemble member Fran Guinan talks August, London and Art.

Letter from the Artistic Director on Superior Donuts

Artistic Director Martha Lavey discusses Tracy Lett's new play

Lost Chicago

Various Ensemble Members Discuss Lost Chicago Treasures

Uptown’s Perpetual Renaissance: Building, Breaking, Rebuilding

Artistic Apprentice Michael Vinson explores the evolution of Uptown.

Running Time

Running Time: 2 hours 15 minutes, including 1 Intermission

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.