Famous for intense, emotionally searing performances that highlight the poetry of life on the edge, A Red Orchid Theatre is celebrating its landmark 15th year in Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood. This year, they have incorporated the theme “the decay of democracy” into their programming. They will examine three of humanity’s motivating forces that insidiously work toward the decay of democracy in our society: FEAR, POWER and COMPETITION. As with each season, all three productions have been hand picked by A Red Orchid’s acclaimed artistic ensemble and promise to thrill audiences at Chicago’s most intimate Equity theatre.

The 15th Anniversary Season

Weapon Of Mass ImpactWeapon Of Mass Impact
by Brett Neveu
October 19 – December 2, 2007

In his newest drama, Weapon of Mass Impact, ensemble member Brett Neveu takes a penetrating look at the lingering uncertainties still emanating after 9/11 and their effort on the collective national psyche. Are we prepared for terrorist actions or should we do more? Can we ever really relax? How would an average person react if kidnapped for political purposes? What happens if your life suddenly becomes nothing more than a bargaining chip? In Brett Neveu’s second installment of his “04-05-06” trilogy, fear and heartache become a lesson in personal survival. Edward Sobel will direct ensemble members Jennifer Engstrom, Kirsten Fitgerald, and Mierka Girten in this question-laden psychological thriller.

FatboyFatboy
by John Clancy
January 18 – March 2, 2008

For anyone who has ever felt a bit marginalized by the current stat of civilization, Fatboy is your kind of satire. A modern descendent of Alfred Jarry’s famous Ubu Roi, Fatboy examines the destructive forces of blind greed and mindless consumption with a crass comedic panache and questions how a charismatic yet vulgar egomaniac can rise from obscurity to rule an apathetic society. The winner of the 2004 Edinburgh Fringe First award, this comically cautionary work from John Clancy captures an elephant in the china shop and names him Fatboy. Artistic Director Guy Van Swearingen will direct this exciting Midwest premiere with veteran actor Steve Pickering playing the titular leader of the tyranny.

Not A Game For BoysNot A Game For Boys
by Simon Block
April 18 – June 1, 2008

Ping Pong is a game like no other… except maybe tennis. It demands acute dexterity, lighting quick reflexes, and nerves of steel. But nerves are fraying a team of three London cabbies as they face elimination from their elite league of master players. Can the team captain hold his comrades together to reach the top, or will their bond disintegrate in the face of long-buried tensions boiling to the surface? Not a Game For Boys, Simon Block’s razor-sharp comedy investigating the male psyche at its competitive worst, will receive its U.S. premiere under the sure-handed direction of Karen Kessler and feature artistic director Guy Van Swearingen among the cast.

Since 1993, A Red Orchid Theatre (1531 North Wells Street) has been an artistic mainstay of the Chicago theatre community with its gripping yet intimate productions. The resident ensemble maintains the conviction that passionately committed theatre will draw passionately committed audiences, and the 2007-2008 subscription season promises relevant, thought-provoking premieres coupled with A Red Orchid's signature acating and production values.

Flexible Season Subscriptions are on sale now and may be purchased by calling 312-943-8722 or going to www.aredorchidtheatre.org